St Dunstan-in-the-West: A Historic Gothic Gem on Fleet Street
Discover St Dunstan-in-the-West, a neo-Gothic marvel on Fleet Street with a rich history spanning over a millennium and unique octagonal design.
St Dunstan-in-the-West is a distinctive Anglican Guild Church located at 186a Fleet Street, London. With origins possibly dating back to the 10th century, the current neo-Gothic building was constructed in the 1830s by architect John Shaw. Renowned for its unusual octagonal design and rich history, it survived the Great Fire of London and serves as a spiritual and cultural landmark amid the historic heart of British journalism.
A brief summary to St Dunstan-in-the-West
- 186a Fleet St, London, EC4A 2AT, GB
- +442074051929
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-3 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-3 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-3 pm
- Thursday 10 am-3 pm
- Friday 10 am-3 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekdays between 10am and 3pm when the church is open for worship and quiet reflection.
- Take time to admire the unusual octagonal architecture and the sky-blue vaulted ceiling inside.
- Look for the plaques and monuments commemorating historical figures connected to the church.
- Explore nearby Fleet Street to experience the rich literary and journalistic heritage of the area.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Public Transport
Take the London Underground to St Paul's Station on the Central Line, approximately a 7 to 10-minute walk to St Dunstan-in-the-West. The station is well-served and accessible, with frequent trains operating daily. Tickets range from £2.50 to £6.00 depending on travel zones and card type.
-
Bus
Several London bus routes stop near Fleet Street, including routes 4, 11, and 15. Bus stops are within a 5-minute walk of the church. Buses run frequently throughout the day with fares around £1.75 using an Oyster or contactless card.
-
Walking
If you are already in the City of London, walking to St Dunstan-in-the-West offers a pleasant urban stroll through historic streets. Expect a 10 to 20-minute walk from landmarks like the Bank of England or the Royal Courts of Justice. The terrain is flat and suitable for most walkers.
St Dunstan-in-the-West location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about St Dunstan-in-the-West
Ancient Origins and Saintly Heritage
St Dunstan-in-the-West stands on a site believed to have hosted a church since between 988 and 1070 AD, possibly founded under the influence of St Dunstan himself, a revered Archbishop of Canterbury and scholar of Anglo-Saxon England. The church’s namesake was known for his promotion of monastic life and peace with the Danes, and his legacy is celebrated here with a feast day on May 19. The original medieval church was a significant spiritual center in London, positioned just before the Temple Bar Gateway, marking the western boundary of the City of London’s jurisdiction.Survival Through Turmoil and Rebuilding
Remarkably, St Dunstan-in-the-West survived the Great Fire of London in 1666, thanks to the quick action of the Dean of Westminster who mobilized Westminster School scholars to extinguish the flames. Over centuries, the church underwent various modifications, including a flat ceiling replacing the original arched roof in 1701. By the early 19th century, the aging structure was demolished to widen Fleet Street, and a new church was built on the old burial ground. Designed by John Shaw Sr. in a neo-Gothic style, the new building was completed in 1832, featuring a unique octagonal main area optimized for the constrained site.Architectural Distinction and Interior Features
The church’s octagonal design is unusual, with seven sides featuring arched openings and the altar placed on the northern side. The eighth side leads to a hallway beneath the organ and tower, serving as the main entrance. The interior is notable for its sky-blue vaulted ceiling and numerous monuments adorning the walls. The tower, damaged during World War II bombings, was rebuilt in 1950 with support from newspaper magnate Viscount Camrose. The church also houses altars dedicated to various Christian traditions, reflecting its role as a center for Christian unity and the Anglican and Eastern Churches Association.Literary and Cultural Connections on Fleet Street
Situated in the historic heart of London’s Fleet Street, once the epicenter of British journalism and printing, St Dunstan-in-the-West is surrounded by literary heritage. Fleet Street was home to many famous newspapers and writers, and the churchyard historically hosted booksellers’ shops. Nearby pubs like Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese evoke the literary past linked to figures such as Samuel Johnson and Charles Dickens. The church’s location marks a symbolic gateway between the City of London and Westminster, embedding it deeply in London’s cultural and historical narrative.Modern Role and Community Significance
Today, St Dunstan-in-the-West functions as a Guild Church dedicated to the daytime working population of Fleet Street and the surrounding area. It remains a place of worship, prayer, and community events, promoting ecumenical relations with churches beyond the Anglican Communion. The church’s rich history, architectural uniqueness, and spiritual mission continue to make it a peaceful refuge amid the bustling city environment.Commemorations and Traditions
The church has historical ties to notable figures such as Lord Baltimore, founder of Maryland in the USA, who is buried here. It also maintains connections with the Worshipful Company of Cordwainers, with annual services commemorating benefactors and traditional customs involving local children. These enduring traditions highlight the church’s longstanding role in the social and spiritual fabric of London.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hare Pl
0.1 km
Discover Hare Place in Temple, London—a serene historic enclave steeped in centuries of legal tradition and architectural charm.
Prince Henry's Room
0.1 km
Discover a rare Jacobean timber-framed treasure on Fleet Street, rich with history, ornate plasterwork, and tales from London's past.
3 Gunpowder Square
0.2 km
A modern square in London’s financial district commemorating the dramatic history of the 1605 Gunpowder Plot and Guy Fawkes’ daring conspiracy.
St Clement Danes Church
0.3 km
Historic London church and Central Church of the Royal Air Force, famed for its Wren architecture, RAF memorials, and iconic 'Oranges and Lemons' bells.
Bomber Harris Memorial
0.3 km
A solemn tribute to RAF Bomber Command’s leader and airmen, set within the historic St Clement Danes Church in London’s Temple district.
King's Reach commemoration memorial
0.4 km
Historic riverside memorial honoring King George V’s Silver Jubilee and the naming of London’s Thames stretch as 'King’s Reach'.
Ludgate Circus
0.4 km
Historic Victorian junction where London's ancient Ludgate once stood, blending rich legend, architecture, and urban vitality.
Victoria Embankment
0.5 km
A historic riverside promenade in London blending Victorian engineering, scenic gardens, iconic monuments, and stunning Thames views.
The Old Watch House
0.5 km
A quaint early 18th-century parish watch house on London’s Strand, offering a rare glimpse into pre-Metropolitan Police community policing.
Holborn Viaduct
0.5 km
A grand Victorian bridge spanning London's hidden Fleet valley, blending engineering innovation with ornate artistry and rich history.
Blackfriars Bridge
0.7 km
Historic and widest Thames crossing in London, blending Victorian engineering with medieval heritage and stunning river views.
Observation Point
0.7 km
Discover breathtaking views and iconic landmarks at Observation Point, a must-visit scenic attraction along the River Thames in London.
South Bank Community Area
0.7 km
A vibrant riverside cultural and historic district in central London, home to iconic landmarks, arts venues, and scenic Thames views.
Queen Anne Statue
0.7 km
Historic statue commemorating Queen Anne’s reign and the completion of St. Paul’s Cathedral, symbolizing Britain’s royal heritage and resilience.
Temple Bar London
0.7 km
Explore Temple Bar, London’s historic ceremonial gateway rebuilt by Christopher Wren, rich with royal heritage and striking 17th-century architecture.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Old Bank of England
0.1 km
Discover the historic charm of The Old Bank of England, a premier pub in London, offering delicious food, local brews, and a vibrant atmosphere.
The Maughan Library
0.1 km
Explore London's grand neo-Gothic Maughan Library, a historic fireproof archive turned vibrant university research hub at King's College London.
Temple Church
0.1 km
Explore the exquisite Temple Church, a 12th-century architectural marvel in London, rich in history and breathtaking beauty.
Temple Bar Memorial
0.1 km
Uncover the historical significance of Temple Bar Memorial, a captivating landmark in the heart of London, reflecting the city's rich heritage and culture.
Fleet St
0.2 km
Historic London street famed as the traditional home of British journalism, rich in literary heritage and hidden urban secrets.
Dr Johnson's House
0.2 km
Step into the historic home of Samuel Johnson and explore the birthplace of the English dictionary in the heart of London’s literary past.
John Wilkes statue
0.2 km
Explore the dynamic bronze statue of John Wilkes on Fetter Lane, celebrating a fiery 18th-century champion of freedom and London’s political heritage.
Hodge The Cat Statue
0.2 km
Discover the charming bronze statue of Hodge, Samuel Johnson's beloved cat, perched on a dictionary in historic Gough Square, London.
Middle Temple Venue Hire
0.2 km
A stunning Elizabethan hall at the heart of London’s legal heritage, blending history, architecture, and tradition in a serene riverside setting.
Royal Courts of Justice
0.2 km
Explore the Royal Courts of Justice, a stunning Gothic architectural masterpiece in London, showcasing the city's rich legal history and vibrant culture.
The Seven Stars
0.2 km
One of London’s oldest pubs, The Seven Stars blends centuries of history with a lively legal atmosphere and eclectic charm in Holborn.
The Honourable Society of the Middle Temple
0.3 km
Discover the historic heart of English law and royal heritage at the Honourable Society of the Middle Temple, home to stunning Elizabethan architecture and centuries of tradition.
The Honourable Society of Lincoln's Inn
0.3 km
Explore the historic legal heart of London at Lincoln's Inn, where centuries of law, architecture, and tradition converge in a serene urban oasis.
Two Temple Place
0.3 km
Discover Two Temple Place, a neo-Gothic Victorian mansion blending literary grandeur and architectural mastery on London’s iconic Victoria Embankment.
St Bride's Church, Fleet Street
0.3 km
Discover the historic heart of Fleet Street, where journalism, printing, and London’s past converge in a stunning Wren-designed church.
Essential places to dine
Ikoyi Restaurant
0.4 km
Discover Ikoyi, London’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant blending bold West African spices with British ingredients in an elegant, sensory tasting journey.
Sarastro
0.7 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean flavors and live musical theatre in the heart of Covent Garden’s most theatrical restaurant.
Sea Containers Restaurant
0.7 km
Stylish Modern British dining with iconic Thames views on London’s vibrant Southbank, perfect for brunch, dinner, and special occasions.
Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
0.7 km
Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
Cicchetti by San Carlo - London Covent Garden
0.8 km
Experience authentic Venetian small plates and seasonal Italian flavors in a stylish, lively Covent Garden setting.
Margot
0.8 km
Sophisticated Italian dining with classic charm and an extensive wine list in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Balthazar
0.8 km
Experience the lively charm of a Parisian brasserie with classic French cuisine in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Hoa Sen Vietnamese Street Food Restaurant
0.9 km
Authentic Vietnamese street food in the heart of Covent Garden, blending vibrant flavors with a lively, cozy atmosphere.
Wahaca Southbank
0.9 km
Experience vibrant Mexican street food in a unique riverside setting with scenic Thames views and lively atmosphere at Wahaca Southbank.
Frog by Adam Handling Restaurant Covent Garden
0.9 km
Experience Michelin-starred modern British cuisine with theatrical flair and sustainable luxury in the heart of Covent Garden.
Inamo Covent Garden
0.9 km
A futuristic Pan-Asian restaurant in Covent Garden where interactive tables meet bold Asian flavours in a sleek, tech-forward space.
Chez Antoinette
0.9 km
Authentic Lyon-inspired French bistro serving classic tartines and cozy café fare in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
St. John
0.9 km
Experience authentic British nose-to-tail dining in the heart of London’s Barbican at St. John, where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.
Punch & Judy
0.9 km
Historic Covent Garden pub blending classic British fare, lively balcony views, and family-friendly charm in the heart of London.
Rules
1.0 km
London’s oldest restaurant since 1798, Rules serves timeless British classics in an elegant, historic Covent Garden setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Twinings - The Strand
0.2 km
Discover over 300 years of tea heritage at London’s oldest tea shop, featuring historic charm, premium tastings, and a unique museum experience.
The Store X
0.4 km
A visionary space where London’s fashion, art, and culture converge in an immersive, innovative experience.
not just a shop
0.6 km
Discover unique, handcrafted art and design by UAL’s students and alumni at this creative retail hub in central London.
Brand Academy Independent Gift Shop
0.7 km
Dive into a world of whimsical designs and unique finds at this South Bank gem, where global brands meet emerging talents in the heart of Oxo Tower Wharf.
SUCK UK Alternative Gifts (OXO Tower)
0.7 km
Discover quirky, clever gifts and homewares at SUCK UK’s flagship store in London’s iconic OXO Tower.
j-me original design ltd
0.7 km
Whimsical designs with a humorous twist from London's Oxo Tower creative hub – quirky home gifts blending fun, function, and British ingenuity.
Sugar And Style
0.7 km
Discover design-led fashion accessories in Gabriel's Wharf, London's arty South Bank riverside haven blending style, creativity, and Thames views.
Bankside Arches Boutique
0.8 km
Discover unique London gifts and handcrafted treasures inside Blackfriars Station’s charming Bankside Arches Boutique.
Smithfield Market
0.8 km
London’s oldest wholesale meat market, where history and commerce meet in the heart of the city.
London Transport Museum - Shop
0.8 km
Discover unique transport-themed gifts and iconic London memorabilia at the London Transport Museum Shop in Covent Garden.
Sass & Belle Covent Garden Market
0.9 km
Quirky gifts and whimsical homeware in Covent Garden's lively market—permanently closed in-store, thriving online with cute finds for every home.
The Moomin Shop London
0.9 km
Step into the enchanting world of Moominvalley at The Moomin Shop in Covent Garden, London’s magical haven for fans of Tove Jansson’s beloved characters.
Rokit Covent Garden
1.0 km
Dive into retro treasures at Rokit Covent Garden, where sustainable vintage fashion meets London's vibrant street style heritage on Shelton Street.
MUJI Covent Garden Store
1.0 km
Discover Japanese minimalism in Covent Garden: timeless clothing, sustainable homewares, and functional stationery for clutter-free, mindful living.
Brandy Melville - Covent Garden
1.0 km
Trendy Italian-LA fusion on Neal Street: one-size-fits-most chic for the effortless Covent Garden style seeker.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Black Parrot
0.4 km
Discover London’s top rum bar with expertly crafted cocktails, immersive masterclasses, and a lively yet intimate atmosphere in Bride Court.
Lyaness
0.7 km
Innovative cocktails and sustainable mixology with stunning Thames views in London’s stylish South Bank hotspot.
Plume Wine Bar
0.7 km
Covent Garden speakeasy in Dickens' old offices: sparkling wines from afar, cheesy sharing plates, and note-passing to strangers in candlelit luxury.
Be At One - Covent Garden Lyceum
0.7 km
Shake up your night in Covent Garden with 100+ cocktails, 2-for-1 happy hours, and masterclasses in a historic spot pulsing with theater-district energy.
Doggett's Coat and Badge
0.7 km
A large, riverside Nicholson’s pub on Blackfriars Bridge offering classic British fare, real ales and a rooftop terrace with strong Thames views.
Be At One - Russell Street
0.8 km
Covent Garden’s vibrant cocktail bar with 100+ drinks, late-night parties, and unbeatable 2-for-1 happy hours in a stylish basement setting.
The Understudy
0.8 km
Riverside craft beers, KERB street food, and Thames views at the National Theatre's lively bar – perfect for pre-show bites or late-night hangs on London's South Bank.
Beaufort Bar
0.8 km
Step into the Beaufort Bar’s jet-black and gold Art Deco glamour for exquisite cocktails, live sultry music, and a timeless London night out.
Dirty Martini - Covent Garden
0.8 km
Glamorous Covent Garden cocktail haven pulsing with martini magic, bottomless brunches, and late-night DJ vibes under sparkling chandeliers.
American Bar
0.8 km
Step into London’s oldest cocktail bar, where over a century of mixology mastery meets elegant Art Deco charm at The Savoy.
Princess Louise
0.9 km
Step into the Princess Louise, a stunning Victorian gin palace in Holborn, where opulent interiors and rich history blend in a timeless London pub experience.
Crusting Pipe
0.9 km
Covent Garden wine bar pouring Davy’s finest ports amid live music, British classics and cosy nooks—perfect for pre-theatre indulgence or market rendezvous.
Eve Bar Covent Garden
0.9 km
Subterranean Covent Garden cocktail bar tempting with zero-waste elixirs, decadent snacks, and Eden-inspired glamour beneath a Michelin-starred haven.
Upstairs At Rules
1.0 km
Discover Upstairs At Rules, a refined cocktail bar above London’s oldest restaurant, where Edwardian elegance meets expertly crafted drinks in Covent Garden.
Mrs Riot
1.0 km
Covent Garden's technicolor riot: punk-pop cocktails, drag brunches, live DJs, and Kitty Clive's rebellious legacy in one explosive venue.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Carwash Nightclub
0.7 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
Proud Late
0.7 km
Dive into two-storey glamour under Waterloo Bridge: cabaret acrobatics, burlesque dazzle, supper feasts, and non-stop clubbing till 5am in London's West End nightlife epicenter.
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
0.9 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
1.1 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
The Roxy
1.1 km
Soho's unbeatable happy hour cocktail bar by day, pulsing nightclub with live music and DJ nights till 3am—affordable vibes in London's nightlife heart.
London Best Night Clubs
1.1 km
Experience London’s legendary Ministry of Sound, where cutting-edge sound meets dynamic club culture in a multi-room dance haven.
Heaven
1.2 km
London’s iconic gay superclub under the railway arches — big nights, loud music, drag, and late finishes in the heart of the West End.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
1.2 km
Dive into London's grooviest urban disco beats at Whatdafunk, where Covent Garden's streets pulse with funk, soul, and non-stop dance energy in the heart of the West End.
The Ivy Club
1.3 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
Zoo Bar & Club
1.4 km
Dive into Leicester Square's edgy nightlife hub: two floors of R&B beats, sports screens, and wild energy until 3am at Zoo Bar & Club.
The Boat Show Comedy Club
1.4 km
London’s premier floating comedy club aboard the historic Tattershall Castle, blending laughter with iconic riverside views and vibrant nightlife.
Cirque Du Soul
1.4 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
1.4 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
1.4 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
Club49Soho
1.4 km
Soho's stylish cocktail haven with DJ-fueled dancefloor energy, blending upscale drinks and classy nightlife vibes until 3am.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
