Explore the Grandeur of St Paul’s Cathedral – London’s Architectural Jewel

Welcome to One of London’s Greatest Icons

Hello travelers! If your London bucket list includes stunning architecture, rich history, and breathtaking city views, St Paul’s Cathedral must be near the top. Towering above London’s skyline with its majestic dome, this Anglican cathedral is more than a church—it’s a symbol of resilience, spirituality, and artistic mastery.
 

As your tour guide, let’s explore every corner of this magnificent building, from crypt to dome. Whether you're drawn by its baroque beauty, the whispering galleries, or the panoramic skyline views, St Paul’s offers an unforgettable London experience.

🕰️ A Brief History of St Paul’s Cathedral

A Legacy of Rebirth

The current St Paul’s Cathedral is actually the fifth version built on this sacred site. The original dates back to 604 AD, but the present structure rose from the ashes of the Great Fire of London in 1666.

Designed by Sir Christopher Wren, this masterpiece took over 30 years to complete and has become a centerpiece of British national identity.

Key historical moments:

1697: First service held in the current building.

1806: Funeral of Admiral Lord Nelson.

1940s: Survived the Blitz during WWII (iconic photo with dome surrounded by smoke).

1981: Wedding of Prince Charles and Princess Diana.

2001: National service after 9/11 attacks.

2022: Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee Thanksgiving Service.

🏛️ Architectural Highlights of St Paul’s Cathedral

The Magnificent Dome

Standing at 111 meters (365 feet) high, the dome of St Paul’s is the second largest cathedral dome in the world, inspired by St Peter’s Basilica in Rome.

It has three interior galleries:

Whispering Gallery: Famous for its unique acoustics—whisper on one side and be heard on the other.

Stone Gallery: Exterior walkway offering city views.

Golden Gallery: The highest point visitors can access—expect narrow stairs but stunning panoramic vistas of London.

The Nave and High Altar

Walk through the grand nave with its vast arches and golden ceiling mosaics. At the eastern end lies the High Altar, restored after WWII damage and surrounded by marble and gilded woodwork.

The Quire

A richly carved wooden masterpiece with intricate stalls and historical musical importance—this is where the choir performs, often in daily services.

The Crypt

Beneath the cathedral lies a vast crypt housing the tombs of British heroes, including:

Sir Christopher Wren (with the Latin inscription: “If you seek his monument, look around you.”)

Lord Nelson

The Duke of Wellington

Florence Nightingale memorial

🎨 Art, Sculpture & Symbolism

The Dome Paintings by Sir James Thornhill depict scenes from the life of St Paul in a baroque narrative style.

Monuments and Sculptures throughout the cathedral honor military leaders, poets, and martyrs.

Mosaics and stained glass combine religious symbolism with Victorian-era artistry.

🧭 Visiting St Paul’s Cathedral: What You Need to Know

Opening Hours

Monday to Saturday: Typically 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM (last admission at 4 PM)

Sunday: Open for worship only (no sightseeing)

Always check the official website for updates or closures due to services or events.

Ticket Prices (as of 2025)

🎧 Audio guide and multimedia guide included in ticket

🔍 Top Things to See Inside St Paul’s Cathedral

1. Whispering Gallery

A true acoustic marvel—stand at one side of the dome and whisper a message that’s heard on the opposite side, 112 feet away.

🚨 Note: Currently, access may be limited due to safety refurbishments—always check before visiting.

2. Stone & Golden Galleries

Climb 528 steps (yes, it’s worth it!) to reach the Golden Gallery, where you can snap 360-degree views of London landmarks like:

The Shard

Tower Bridge

Millennium Bridge

Tate Modern

3. The Crypt

Explore the resting place of national heroes. You can also enjoy a coffee in Café Below, located inside the crypt itself—a peaceful and historic break spot.

4. The Oculus

A 270° film experience in the crypt that brings the cathedral’s story to life through multimedia projection.

5. Daily Services & Evensong

Attend Evensong (usually 5 PM weekdays), a free choral service in stunning surroundings—perfect even if you’re not religious.

📆 Best Time to Visit

Weekday mornings for smaller crowds

Spring and autumn for mild weather and fewer tourists

Late afternoon for golden-hour photography

Avoid Sundays if you want to tour the building—it’s only open for worship.

📸 Best Photo Spots

Millennium Bridge: Iconic dome view from the south side of the Thames.

Ludgate Hill: Classic street-level angle with red buses in the foreground.

Golden Gallery: For views of the London skyline.

🧭 How to Get There

📍 Location: St Paul’s Churchyard, London EC4M 8AD

Public Transport

Tube: St Paul’s Station (Central Line) is just 2 minutes away

Bus: Routes 4, 11, 15, 23, 25, and more stop nearby

River Thames: Walk from Blackfriars or Millennium Bridge

🛍️ Gift Shop & Cafe

St Paul’s Gift Shop: Books, souvenirs, and religious items

Café Below (in the Crypt): Coffee, cakes, and light meals in a unique setting

🏨 Where to Stay Nearby

The Ned London – Luxurious and stylish, just a 5-minute walk

YHA London St Paul’s – Budget-friendly hostel next door

Premier Inn London Blackfriars – Good value with easy access

🧒 Family Tips

Kids will love the climb to the galleries and the chance to use the multimedia guide

Look out for the family trail booklet

Children under 6 enter free

🎭 Events & Exhibitions

St Paul’s hosts concerts, lectures, art exhibitions, and special services throughout the year. Notable events:

Christmas carol services

Easter celebrations

National commemorations

🧩 Fun Facts About St Paul’s Cathedral

The cathedral was built entirely without modern machinery.

The dome has three shells: internal, structural, and external.

During WWII, it was protected by a firewatch team atop the dome.

Sir Wren’s design was initially rejected for being too "modern".

It has 12 bells, including “Great Paul,” the largest in the UK.

🌟 Why Visit St Paul’s Cathedral?

St Paul’s isn’t just a religious building—it’s a cultural and architectural beacon that reflects London’s history, resilience, and creative spirit. Whether you’re admiring the dome, walking through centuries-old crypts, or simply gazing up in awe, the cathedral leaves a lasting impression.

From spiritual seekers to art lovers, from tourists to photographers, St Paul’s Cathedral offers something for everyone—an unmissable part of any London itinerary.