Explore the best churches in London while also seeing some of the best of the city itself on this specialty crafted walking tour.
Embark on a unique adventure, discovering some of London’s most stunning and historic churches. The walking tour starts at Westminster Cathedral and ends at All Hallows by the Tower, guiding you through an array of beautiful sites, bustling squares, local pubs, and fascinating happenings along the way.
If you’re not a fan of churches, that’s ok too because this walk will take you through some of central London’s most picturesque spots, making it a delightful experience for any explorer to capital of the U.K!
As you walk from church to church, take in the vibrant atmosphere of central London. Enjoy the bustling streets, historical landmarks, and numerous pubs and cafes that offer a taste of local life.
Whether you’re sipping a pint at a traditional pub or enjoying a coffee in a quaint café, the charm of London is ever-present. The entire walk offers glimpses into the everyday life of Londoners, with plenty of opportunities for people-watching and spontaneous discoveries. Let’s get started!
Westminster Cathedral
Not to be confused with Westminster Abbey (just down the road) your journey begins at Westminster Cathedral, a striking neo-Byzantine building that stands out with its distinctive red and white striped brickwork.
As the mother church of the Catholic Church in England and Wales, it’s known for its magnificent mosaics and the grand 272 foot bell tower offering panoramic views of the city. Take a moment to admire the intricacies of the interior before stepping back into the bustling heart of London.
St Stephen’s Church
A close walk from Westminster Cathedral, St Stephen’s Church is a much smaller Church of England church with a striking Gothic exterior and interior.
The contrast with the larger Catholic Westminster Cathedral is noticeable, with St Stephen’s being less ornate and gilded. The difference in design highlights the variety within London’s ecclesiastical architectural diversity. Sitting in the small entryway, which resembles a medieval window, offers a quiet spot to reflect and appreciate the church’s serene atmosphere.
Westminster Abbey
Next, we continue down Victoria Street toward Westminster Abbey, passing the cute pedestrian street Strutton Ground with its local market and the charming Grafton Arms pub.
Westminster Abbey is a Gothic masterpiece with a history dating back to the 10th century. This has been the coronation church of England since 1066 and serves as the final resting place of over 3,000 notable figures, including monarchs, poets, and scientists.
The Abbey’s stunning architecture includes the famous Westminster Hall, the intricate fan-vaulted ceiling of Henry VII’s Lady Chapel, and the historic Coronation Chair. The Poets’ Corner is a literary treasure trove, honoring great writers such as Chaucer, Shakespeare, and Dickens. The Abbey’s deep historical significance and breathtaking design make it a cornerstone of British heritage.
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St Martin-in-the-Fields
Continuing our walk up Whitehall to Trafalgar Square, we arrive at St Martin-in-the-Fields. This church, designed by James Gibbs in the early 18th century, is a notable example of English Baroque architecture.
Its grand portico and tall steeple are iconic, and the church has a long-standing tradition of musical excellence, hosting concerts and recitals. You can also enjoy the bustling square or visit the National Gallery, housing a collection of more than 2,300 paintings dating from the mid-13th century to 1900.
After checking out St Martin-in-the-Fields, I popped down to the Café in the Crypt for a quick break. This is such a cool spot, tucked away under the church with these old vaulted ceilings and stone floors that give it a real historic vibe.
I grabbed a coffee and a tasty pastry, and it was just the perfect chill spot to unwind for a bit. The vibe down there is super relaxed, and it’s a great little hideaway from the busy city streets above.
—> Read More: London Knowledge: Where A Guided Tour Works Best
St Mary le Strand
Next, head down Strand Street to visit St Mary le Strand, an exquisite Baroque church nestled in the middle of the bustling street.
This lesser known Baroque church, completed in 1723, was designed by James Gibbs, who also designed St Martin-in-the-Fields. The church’s elegant facade features a series of Corinthian columns and an ornate steeple. Inside, the church is adorned with classical motifs and a beautifully painted ceiling. It serves as a peaceful sanctuary amidst the city’s hustle and bustle of the city.
Temple Church
A short walk brings us to the Temple Church, renowned for its unique round nave, built by the Knights Templar in the 12th century. This is my favorite church in all of London! It’s sitting in this little square off Fleet Street hiding in plain sight.
Built by the Knights Templar in the 12th century, this church is steeped in history and intrigue. The round nave, inspired by the Church of the Holy Sepulcher in Jerusalem, symbolizes the Templars’ dedication to the Holy Land. Inside, the effigies of medieval knights and the ornate chancel showcase the church’s rich history.
The church is also notable for its role in the Magna Carta’s creation, with several signatories buried here. The surrounding Temple area, with its beautiful gardens and legal chambers, is also a lovely place to explore.
St Paul’s Cathedral
Our tour then takes us to the iconic St Paul’s Cathedral, a masterpiece designed by Sir Christopher Wren after the Great Fire of London in 1666. Its impressive dome, one of the largest in the world, has been a defining feature of the London skyline for over 300 years.
The cathedral’s interior is equally stunning, with the intricate mosaics of the quire, the Whispering Gallery’s unique acoustics, and the crypt housing the tombs of notable figures like Admiral Nelson and the Duke of Wellington. The view from the Golden Gallery, atop the dome, offers breathtaking panoramic vistas of London.
A true highlight of your walking tour!
The surrounding area offers plenty of pubs and cafes for a leisurely lunch break. Don’t miss a stop at Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese, London’s oldest pub (allegedly) dating back to 1667, with the cellar going back much further than that.
The dark wood paneling and historic ambiance make it feel like stepping back in time, perfect pit stop for checking out the best churches in London.
—> Read More: Ultimate Things To Do In London – Top Sites & Hidden Gems You Can’t Miss
St Mary Aldermary
From St Paul’s, make your way to St Mary Aldermary, a beautiful example of Gothic architecture with its ornate plasterwork and intricate carvings.
The interior’s light and airy feel, combined with its Gothic elements, make it a unique example of post-fire reconstruction. This church is a peaceful haven amidst the bustling city streets. Enjoy the serene atmosphere and the beautiful stained glass windows.
St Olave Hart Street
Your penultimate stop is St Olave Hart Street, one of the few medieval churches to survive the Great Fire of London. Known for its connections to Samuel Pepys, who is buried here, this small yet charming church offers a glimpse into London’s rich history.
The church’s Gothic architecture features a charming exterior and a peaceful churchyard, offering a quiet retreat from the surrounding city’s bustle. Inside, the church is adorned with memorials and plaques that tell the stories of its long history and the notable figures associated with it.
All Hallows by the Tower
The final stop on our tour is All Hallows by the Tower, the oldest church in the City of London, founded in 675 AD. The church’s rich history includes Roman, Saxon, and medieval elements, with a museum in the crypt displaying artifacts from its long past.
Notable features include a 7th-century Saxon arch and a 14th-century brass rubbing. The church survived the Great Fire of London and the Blitz, serving as a testament to the city’s resilience.
And, I think its proximity to the Tower of London and the River Thames makes it a fitting endpoint for our journey!
Jack Baumann
President of Guidester
Jack Baumann has lived and traveled throughout Europe for over 15 years, creating Guidester in 2014. Over the years Guidester has developed into a unique travel concierge and tour company helping travelers experience the best of Europe.
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