British architecture is renowned all over the world, and Central London is a great place for history enthusiasts to explore the incredible masterpieces of architectural legends. Here are 5 beautiful churches in Central London that you will be able to easily visit from any of the centrally located hotels in London:
- St. Paul’s Cathedral
This one is hands down the most iconic and legendary church in all of London. Any visual representation of the city is incomplete without the imagery of St. Paul’s. This Anglican Cathedral serves as the mother church for the Diocese of London and serves as the seat of Bishop of London. The gorgeous domed building, dating from the late 17th century, was designed by architect Sir Christopher Wren in the English Baroque style.
The church has hosted numerous noteworthy services including funerals of Winston Churchil and Margaret Thatcher, jubilee celebrations of Queen Victoria and the wedding ceremony of (now) King Charles to his first wife, Lady Diana Spencer.
The nearest tube station is St. Paul’s which is served by the Central Line and is a mere 2 minute walk away.
- Westminster’s Cathedral
Not to be confused with Westminster Abbey – the Westminster Cathedral is the largest Catholic Church in the UK and the seat of the Archbishop of Westminster. The late 19th century building was designed by John Francis Bentley in neo-Byzantine style – made almost entirely of brick and without steel reinforcements.
According to the official website of the cathedral, over 100 different varieties of marble decorate the interior of Westminster Cathedral – more than any building in England. The marble was sourced from 24 countries across the world, including formations that we know were quarried by the ancient Greeks and Romans. Paired with the mesmerizing art and mosaics that cover the interiors of the church, this cathedral is an architectural gem!
The nearest tube station is Victoria which is served by Victoria, District and Circle lines.
- St. Mary Le Bow Church
Another masterpiece by Sir Christopher Wren, St. Mary-Le-Bow is of Saxon origins with a Norman Crypt. Located in Cheapside, the folklore has it that you’re only a true Londoner or a ‘Cockney’ if you were born within the sound of its famous bow bells! The interiors of this relatively simple looking church are majestic and a must visit if you’re a fan of stunning architecture.
The nearest tube station is Bank which is served by Central, Northern and Waterloo & City lines.
- Westminster Abbey
With over 16 Royal Weddings since 1100 – including that of Queen Elizabeth II and later her grandson Prince William – as well as numerous coronations and burials of numerous monarchs, the Westminster Abbey is truly a Royal Church. The 13th Century building was designed in Gothic style and is a World Heritage Site and a top attraction for visitors to the City of London.
The nearest tube station is Victoria which is served by Victoria, District and Circle lines.
- Southwark Cathedral
Lying on the South Bank of River Thames, close to London Bridge, the Southwark Cathedral is the mother church of the Anglican Diocese of Southward and has been a place of Christian worship for over a 1000 years. The striking Gothic building has beautiful stained glass windows and the location of this historic building is close to London’s famous foodie haven – the Borough Market.
The nearest tube station is the London Bridge which is served by Northern and Jubilee lines.
