London Churches
London Churches - Background
Church spires have dominated London's skyline for most of the last thousand years, and probably would still do so if it weren't for the combined efforts of ill-planned twentieth century redevelopment and the bombs of Germany's Luftwaffe. Despite these destructive influences, London still possesses a rich heritage of churches, from small parish churches to cathedrals. Not all are free to visit of course, but many remain so.
Some of the Best:
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St. Paul's Cathedral is perhaps London's best known and most impressive church. For more information check out our St. Paul's Guide.
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Westminster Abbey is the resting place of many of England's monarchs and luminaries. Nearing its 1,000th anniversary, the Abbey is a must-see. View our Westminster Abbey Guide for more.
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St. Martin-in-the-Fields overlooks Trafalgar Square, and is the venue for free lunchtime concert performances. An excellent café operates from the Crypt. Check out www.stmartin-in-the-fields.org.
- St. Mary-le-Strand (pictured above) has a distinct 'ship-like' construction, and was completed in 1724. The church is now isolated on a traffic island on the Strand.
- The circular Temple Church (with its effigies of knights and stone grotesques) was founded by the Knights Templar in 1160, and is located within the Temple Inns of Court.
- All Souls, Langham Place (just beyond the northern end of Regent Street; Oxford Circus Tube) has a round frontage and unique 'needle' spire.
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St. Stephen Walbrook (39 Walbrook, EC4; Bank or Cannon Street Tube) is a Sir Christopher Wren masterpiece, and is located just a stroll from his world famous St. Paul's Cathedral (which is free on Sundays and after 4.30pm).
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Interested in history? Why not check out our guides to London History and Historic Pubs.
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