When it comes to iconic landmarks in London, St Paul’s Cathedral is hard to beat. This architectural masterpiece has stood tall over the city for centuries, attracting visitors with its rich history, stunning design, and breathtaking views of London. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply curious about one of London’s most famous sites, this guide has everything you need to plan your visit.
Why Visit St. Paul’s Cathedral?
St. Paul’s Cathedral isn’t just a tourist attraction—it’s an enduring symbol of London’s resilience, history, and beauty. Imagine climbing to the top of its grand dome for sweeping city views, wandering its awe-inspiring interiors, or simply soaking in the serene atmosphere of its crypt and chapels.
What makes St. Paul’s so special? For one, its role in pivotal moments of British history, such as Sir Winston Churchill’s funeral and the royal wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana. But beyond that, it’s a living place of worship where ancient traditions meet modern London, making every visit uniquely memorable.
5 Fascinating Facts About St. Paul’s Cathedral
- A Grand Replacement: The current St. Paul’s Cathedral was built after the Great Fire of London in 1666 destroyed the original medieval church.
- A Record-Breaking Dome: Its dome is the second-largest in the world, inspired by St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. It towers 365 feet above the city—a foot for every day of the year.
- Wartime Hero: During the Blitz of World War II, St. Paul’s miraculously survived, thanks to the efforts of firefighters and volunteers.
- Choral Excellence: St. Paul’s Choir has been singing here since 1127, making it one of the oldest musical institutions in the world.
- Whispering Secrets: The Whispering Gallery in the dome is famous for its acoustics—whisper against the wall, and your words travel all the way around!
What’s Included in Your Visit?
Your ticket to St. Paul’s Cathedral includes access to:
- The Cathedral Floor: Explore its grand nave, intricate mosaics, and ornate chapels.
- The Crypt: Discover the resting places of notable figures like Admiral Lord Nelson and the Duke of Wellington.
- The Dome: Climb over 500 steps to experience all three galleries:
- The Whispering Gallery, with its unique acoustics.
- The Stone Gallery, offering a mid-level view of London.
- The Golden Gallery, where the cityscape unfolds in all directions.
A multimedia guide is included in your ticket, featuring videos and audio content to enhance your visit.
Ticket Prices, Hours, and Tips
Ticket Information
- Adult Admission: £25
- Children (6–17): £10
- Under 6: Free
Opening Hours
- Monday to Saturday: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM (last entry at 4:15 PM).
- Wednesdays: Opens at 10:00 AM.
- Sundays: Reserved exclusively for religious services.
Money-Saving Tip:
St. Paul’s Cathedral is included in the Go City Pass and London Pass, which can save you up to 50% if you’re visiting multiple attractions. Take a look here.
Attend a Service at St. Paul’s
Want to experience St. Paul’s Cathedral in a more spiritual setting? Attending a service is a unique way to soak in its atmosphere.
- Daily Services: These include morning prayers, Eucharist, and Evensong (often accompanied by the renowned choir).
- Free Entry: Unlike tourist visits, attending a service is free, and no tickets are required. However, you will only be allowed in the main hall and won’t access the dome, crypt or whispering room.
Getting to St. Paul’s Cathedral
St. Paul’s is conveniently located in central London, making it easy to reach by public transport or on foot.
By Underground:
- St. Paul’s Station (Central Line): 2 minutes’ walk.
- Mansion House (Circle and District Lines): 5 minutes’ walk.
- Blackfriars (Circle and District Lines): 7 minutes’ walk.
- Bank (Central, Northern, DLR): 10 minutes’ walk.
By Bus:
Popular routes include 4, 11, 15, 23, 25, 26, 76, and 172, with stops near the cathedral.
By Foot:
It’s an easy walk from other landmarks like Millennium Bridge and Tate Modern.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit
- Arrive Early: For fewer crowds and the best light for photos, plan your visit in the morning.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: There are over 500 steps to climb if you’re heading to the dome.
- Explore Nearby Landmarks: Combine your visit with stops at the Millennium Bridge, Tate Modern, or Shakespeare’s Globe for a full day of sightseeing.
- Check for Special Events: From evening concerts to night tours, St. Paul’s often hosts unique events—sign up for their newsletter to stay informed.
Why St. Paul’s Cathedral Is Worth a Visit?
Whether you’re marveling at its grand architecture, climbing the dome for unparalleled views, or soaking in its rich history, St. Paul’s Cathedral offers an experience like no other. Add this iconic landmark to your London itinerary for a journey through time, culture, and craftsmanship that will leave you inspired.
