St. Etheldreda's RC Church, Farringdon: London's Oldest Catholic Church
Discover London's oldest Catholic church, St. Etheldreda's, a medieval gem steeped in history, sacred relics, and stunning stained glass artistry.
St. Etheldreda's Church, located at 14 Ely Place in London, is the oldest Catholic church in England, dating back to around 1250. Originally built as the town chapel for the Bishops of Ely, it survived the Reformation and the Great Fire of London. The church houses the relic of St. Etheldreda's incorrupt hand and features remarkable stained glass windows. It remains a vibrant place of worship and historical significance in the heart of London.
A brief summary to St. Etheldreda's RC Church, Farringdon
- 14 Ely Pl, London, EC1N 6RY, GB
- +442074051061
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 8 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
- Thursday 8 am-5 pm
- Friday 8 am-5 pm
- Saturday 8 am-5 pm
- Sunday 8:30 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit on a weekday morning for a quieter experience and to enjoy the church’s peaceful atmosphere during private prayer hours.
- Look for the jewel casket near the altar that holds the incorrupt hand of St. Etheldreda, a unique and revered relic.
- Explore the crypt or undercroft if accessible, as it may date back to the 6th century and offers a fascinating glimpse into the church’s early history.
- Admire the large stained glass windows, especially the west window installed in 1964, one of the largest in London.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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London Underground
Take the London Underground to Farringdon station, approximately a 10-15 minute walk on mostly flat terrain to St. Etheldreda's. The station is served by Circle, Hammersmith & City, and Metropolitan lines. No entrance fees apply for the church visit.
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Bus
Bus routes 55, 243, and 153 stop near Holborn or Farringdon areas, with a 10-15 minute walk to the church. Buses run frequently during the day, and single fares cost around £1.75 with an Oyster card or contactless payment.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central London locations typically takes 10-20 minutes depending on traffic. This option is convenient for those with limited mobility but can be more costly, usually £8-£15.
St. Etheldreda's RC Church, Farringdon location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about St. Etheldreda's RC Church, Farringdon
Ancient Origins and Historical Significance
St. Etheldreda's Church was established before 1290 as the town chapel for the Bishops of Ely, who needed a London residence close to the monarch and Parliament. Built by John de Kirkeby, Bishop of Ely and Treasurer of England under Edward I, the church is one of only two surviving buildings in London from Edward I's reign. The site originally included a vast palace estate with orchards, vineyards, and gardens, reflecting its importance as an ecclesiastical and political hub.Survival Through Turbulent Times
The church endured major religious upheavals, including the English Reformation when Catholic Mass was banned and St. Etheldreda's was converted to Anglican worship. Despite this, it briefly served as a Catholic chapel again in the early 17th century when the Spanish ambassador used the upper chapel. Remarkably, the Great Fire of London in 1666 spared the church, preserving its medieval structure while much of the city was destroyed.Restoration and Catholic Revival
Following Catholic Emancipation in 1829, St. Etheldreda's was restored to Catholic worship in 1874 when it was purchased by the Rosminian Fathers. Extensive restoration, including work by architect George Gilbert Scott, revived the church’s medieval splendour. The upper chapel reopened for Solemn High Mass in 1878 after more than two centuries. The church suffered bombing damage during World War II but was carefully restored and reopened in 1952 with new stained glass windows that echo the original medieval artistry.Architectural and Artistic Highlights
The church’s interior features thick medieval walls, frescoes, and a simple altar. Its stained glass windows are particularly notable, with the west window installed in 1964 being one of the largest in London. The crypt, dating possibly back to the 6th century, offers a glimpse into the church’s long history and served as a shelter during wartime bombings. A jewel casket near the altar holds the relic of St. Etheldreda’s incorrupt hand, a sacred object that draws visitors and worshippers alike.Spiritual and Cultural Importance Today
St. Etheldreda’s continues as an active Roman Catholic parish and a symbol of resilience and faith through centuries of change. It honors English Catholic martyrs from the Reformation era with statues along its walls. The church hosts an annual blessing on St. Etheldreda’s feast day for those seeking healing. Its unique blend of medieval heritage and Victorian restoration makes it a treasured sanctuary and a remarkable historical landmark in central London.The Enigmatic Saint and Her Legacy
Dedicated to St. Etheldreda, a 7th-century Anglo-Saxon princess who founded a religious community and was revered for her piety and miracles, the church preserves her legacy through its relics and traditions. Her incorrupt hand, preserved for over 1,350 years, symbolizes enduring faith and sanctity. Visitors can experience a profound connection to England’s early Christian history within this rare and evocative space.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Historic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Sacred Sites
- Heritage Neighborhoods
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
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
