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All Hallows by the Tower

4.7
·831 reviews·, United Kingdom

London's oldest church (675 AD), a survivor of fires & wars, with Roman floors and Saxon arches.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
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Imposing

All Hallows by the Tower

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

London's oldest church (675 AD), a survivor of fires & wars, with Roman floors and Saxon arches.

4.7
(831 reviews)

"An incredible find with such history, founded in 675!! Just amazing."

Vertical photo
TIP

⏳ Allow ample time

Don't rush! Explore the crypt and church thoroughly; it's more than just a quick stop .

💰 Free entry, donate!

Entry is free, but donations are vital for preservation. Give what you can!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Roman Crypt Museum

Roman Crypt Museum

Crypt

Step onto 2nd-century Roman floor tiles and discover Saxon artifacts in this fascinating underground museum .

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Saxon Arch

Saxon Arch

Main Church Area

Marvel at a remarkably preserved Saxon arch, a testament to the church's ancient origins dating back to 675 AD .

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William Penn's Baptismal Font

William Penn's Baptismal Font

Main Church Area

See the font where William Penn, founder of Pennsylvania, was baptized in 1644, connecting you to American history .

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Great Fire & WWII Survivor

Great Fire & WWII Survivor

Various locations within the church

Witness remnants of the Great Fire of London and WWII damage, including solidified lead from the melted roof .

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Planning Your Visit

Don't Just Rush to the Tower

Many visitors overlook All Hallows by the Tower, London's oldest church, in their haste to see the Tower of London. This ancient site, founded in 675 AD, offers a deep dive into Roman, Saxon, and medieval history, including a Roman floor and Saxon arch. Plan to spend at least an hour here to truly appreciate its layers of history.TikTok+1

Free Entry, Rich History

Entry to All Hallows by the Tower is free, making it an accessible historical gem. However, donations are greatly appreciated to help maintain this ancient site. The crypt museum is a must-see for its Roman and Saxon artifacts, offering a tangible connection to London's earliest inhabitants.TikTokReddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Good for history buffs
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Most people walk past London’s oldest church without even noticing it. Founded in 675. Roman floor, Saxon arch, Great Fire drama, Pepys tea, and WWII scars. Add All Hallows by the Tower to your list — now you know! #HiddenLondon #AllHallowsByTheTower #SecretLondon #LondonHistory #London
@audventour
1.2K likes • 18.3K views

⏳ Allow ample time

Don't rush! Explore the crypt and church thoroughly; it's more than just a quick stop.TikTok+1

💰 Free entry, donate!

Entry is free, but donations are vital for preservation. Give what you can! Reddit

A must see place in the City of London . . #london #londontourist #travelapps #londonhistory #hiddenlondon
@wander._.be
9K likes • 151.6K views
POV: you just found a 1,300-year-old church next to the Tower 😳 All Hallows by the Tower — Roman floor, crypt, Saxon arch, Great Fire + WWII survivor. Save & share with the friend who thinks they’ve “done” London. #London #TravelTok #HiddenGems #LondonHistory #AllHallowsByTheTower #ThingsToDoInLondon
@audventour
52 likes • 1.2K views

🚶‍♀️ Combine with Tower visit

Perfectly located next to the Tower of London for a combined historical experience.TikTok+1

📜 Read the info boards

Informative displays enhance understanding of the church's rich history.TikTok

All hallows by the tower is the oldest church in the city of London. It’s also the burial place of William Penn, the founder of Pennsylvania . Watch till the end to see his memorial . It also has Roman and Saxon artefacts inside . Also weirdly .. Ernest Shackletons crows nest from his ship on the trip to Antarctica! #church #allhallows #london #historytok #pennsylvania
@adventurethroughhistory
19.3K likes • 144.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

⏳ Allow ample time

Don't rush! Explore the crypt and church thoroughly; it's more than just a quick stop.TikTok+1

💰 Free entry, donate!

Entry is free, but donations are vital for preservation. Give what you can! Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Combine with Tower visit

Perfectly located next to the Tower of London for a combined historical experience.TikTok+1

📜 Read the info boards

Informative displays enhance understanding of the church's rich history.TikTok

👟 Comfortable shoes needed

You'll be walking on uneven surfaces, especially in the crypt.TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.7
(831 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise All Hallows by the Tower as an incredible, often overlooked find, especially for its deep history and free entry. The Roman crypt museum with its ancient floor tiles and Saxon artifacts is a major highlight, offering a tangible connection to London's past. Its proximity to the Tower of London makes it a perfect, enriching addition to any itinerary.

"We just happened by after leaving the Tower, and what an incredible find! It was lovely, and the Knights Templar Altar downstairs was incredible. Such history, founded in 675!! Just amazing."

David Turlington

"All Hallows by the Tower is a fascinating and historic church, often overlooked by visitors rushing to the Tower of London. As the oldest church in the City of London, dating back to 675 AD, it has a remarkable history, having survived the Great Fire of London and World War II bombings. The beautiful architecture, peaceful atmosphere, and intriguing artifacts make it a must-visit for history lovers.
The crypt museum is a highlight, featuring Roman and Saxon remains, ancient artifacts, and even a section of a Roman pavement. There are also exhibits about William Penn, the founder of Pennsylvania, who was baptized here. The connection to historical events and figures, including Samuel Pepys, adds to its significance.
Entry is free, and the staff are welcoming and knowledgeable, happy to share insights about the church’s past. It’s a quiet, reflective place, perfect for those interested in London’s deep-rooted history. Definitely worth a visit! ⛪✨"

Eranda Janaka

"Great stop after tower for a free small church with many historical display. Donations to church can be made. Excellent stops for Americans for the connection William penn and John Adam’s."

kevin costello

What People Like

Incredible historical depth
Free entry & donations
Roman & Saxon artifacts

What People Dislike

Can be overlooked by tourists

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

All Hallows by the Tower is conveniently located on Byward Street, right next to the Tower of London. The nearest Tube stations are Tower Hill (Circle and District lines) and Aldgate (Circle, Metropolitan, and Hammersmith & City lines). Numerous bus routes also serve the area.TikTok

Yes, it's very accessible. Tower Hill station is a short walk away, and buses frequently stop nearby, making it easy to reach via London's public transport network.TikTok

Absolutely! It's a very short walk from the Tower of London, and also within walking distance of the Tower Bridge and St Katharine Docks, making it ideal for a walking tour of the area.TikTok

On-street parking in the City of London is limited and often expensive. It's highly recommended to use public transport. The nearest car parks are typically a significant walk away.

Most visitors arrive from the Tower of London, exiting and turning right onto Byward Street. The church entrance is clearly marked and easily visible from the main road.TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The church is generally open daily, but hours can vary. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date opening times before your visit, especially for the crypt museum.TikTok

Entry to the church itself is free. However, donations are gratefully accepted to help maintain this historic site. There may be a small fee for special exhibitions or events in the crypt museum.Reddit

No, advance booking is not typically required for general entry to the church. You can usually just walk in. For group visits or special tours, it's advisable to contact the church directly.

Yes, the crypt museum is a key attraction and is usually accessible during church opening hours. It houses significant Roman and Saxon artifacts.TikTok+1

As a place of worship, visitors are expected to be respectful. Photography is generally allowed, but it's always good practice to check for any specific signage or ask a member of staff if you're unsure.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Inside, you'll find a beautiful church with a Saxon arch, memorials to historical figures like William Penn, and evidence of its survival through the Great Fire and WWII. The crypt museum is a highlight with Roman floors and Saxon artifacts.TikTok+2

Absolutely! The crypt museum offers a unique glimpse into Roman London with its original floor tiles and Saxon remains. It's a tangible connection to the city's ancient past.TikTok+1

Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but it's always polite to be discreet and avoid flash photography, especially during services. Check for any specific signs or ask staff if in doubt.TikTok

To fully appreciate the history and exhibits, plan for at least 1-2 hours. This allows time to explore the church, the crypt museum, and read the informative displays.TikTok+1

While not always formally advertised, knowledgeable volunteers or staff are often on hand to share insights. For specific guided tours, it's best to inquire directly with the church.

📸 📸 Photography

The Roman floor tiles in the crypt, the Saxon arch, the stained-glass windows, and the exterior architecture are all fantastic photo subjects. Don't miss the memorials and historical artifacts.TikTok+1

Yes, photography for personal use is generally allowed inside the crypt museum. Be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash, as it can damage delicate artifacts.TikTok

Morning light can be lovely for the exterior and interior shots. For the crypt, the lighting is artificial, so any time during opening hours is suitable.TikTok

Drone usage is strictly prohibited in most of central London, especially near historical sites and busy areas like the Tower of London. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.

A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is useful for both wider shots of the church and details in the crypt. A fast prime lens can be good for low-light conditions inside.TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

All Hallows by the Tower offers a unique and engaging way to introduce children to history. The Roman floor tiles in the crypt are a fantastic visual and tactile experience, sparking imagination about ancient life.TikTok The Saxon arch and the stories of survival through fires and wars can also capture young minds. It's a great, free activity that's less overwhelming than larger museums, and its proximity to the Tower of London makes it an easy addition to a family's itinerary.TikTok+1

Consider framing the visit as a 'time travel adventure.' You can talk about the Romans who built the floors, the Saxons who created the arch, and the brave people who rebuilt the church after the Blitz. The church's manageable size means kids won't get too tired, and the historical artifacts provide concrete examples of the past. It’s a wonderful way to make history come alive in a tangible way.

🏛️ History Buffs & Archaeology Enthusiasts

For those with a deep interest in London's past, All Hallows by the Tower is an essential stop. The Roman crypt museum with its original floor tiles and Saxon artifacts offers unparalleled insights into the city's earliest settlements.TikTok+1 The Saxon arch is a rare surviving piece of early medieval architecture, providing a direct link to the Anglo-Saxon period.

Beyond the artifacts, the church's own history as a survivor of the Great Fire and WWII bombings is a compelling narrative. The memorials to figures like William Penn and the accounts of Samuel Pepys add further historical depth. This church is not just a building; it's a chronicle of London's resilience and continuous evolution through millennia.TikTok+2

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

All Hallows by the Tower is a fantastic option for budget-conscious travelers, as entry is free.Reddit It offers a rich historical experience without the hefty price tag of many London attractions. You can immerse yourself in Roman and Saxon history, learn about significant historical events, and appreciate ancient architecture all within a single, accessible location.TikTok

Combine your visit with a walk around the Tower of London exterior and Tower Bridge for a full day of sightseeing without spending much. The church's central location makes it easy to incorporate into a walking tour of the area, maximizing your exploration while minimizing costs. Remember that while entry is free, a small donation is always appreciated to support the upkeep of this historic site.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Journey Through Time: The History of All Hallows by the Tower

Founded in 675 AD by the Abbey of Barking, All Hallows by the Tower is a living testament to London's enduring history. It predates the nearby Tower of London by centuries and has witnessed pivotal moments, from the Norman Conquest to the Blitz. Its survival through events like the Great Fire of London in 1666, where Samuel Pepys famously watched the inferno from its tower, and the devastating World War II bombings, is nothing short of miraculous.TikTok+2

The church's resilience is evident in its architecture and artifacts. You can find a Saxon arch, a rare surviving example of early medieval construction, and beneath the church lies the crypt museum. This underground space reveals layers of history, including a remarkably preserved Roman floor from the 2nd century AD, believed to be part of an ordinary Roman home, and Saxon remains.TikTok+1 These discoveries offer a tangible connection to Londinium, the Roman name for London.

Beyond its ancient roots, All Hallows has connections to significant historical figures. William Penn, the founder of Pennsylvania, was baptized here in 1644, and his memorial is within the church. The church also hosted the wedding of John Quincy Adams, the 6th U.S. President, and his wife Louisa in 1797.TikTok+1 These connections highlight the church's ongoing role in the fabric of both London and international history.

Exploring the Crypt Museum: London's Ancient Past Unearthed

The crypt museum beneath All Hallows by the Tower is a treasure trove for history enthusiasts. It's here that visitors can walk on original Roman floor tiles dating back to the 2nd century AD, offering a direct link to the city's Roman origins as Londinium.TikTok These tiles, found in what is believed to have been a domestic dwelling, are a rare and impressive sight, allowing you to literally stand where Romans once stood.

Alongside the Roman remnants, the crypt also houses Saxon artifacts, including a significant Saxon stone cross.TikTok These discoveries underscore the church's continuous use and importance throughout different historical periods. The museum also features exhibits detailing the church's survival through major historical events, such as the Great Fire of London and the Blitz, providing context for the damage and subsequent rebuilding efforts.TikTok

For those interested in American history, the crypt also contains information and memorials related to William Penn, the founder of Pennsylvania, who was baptized in the church. The crypt museum is a compact yet incredibly rich space that provides a profound understanding of London's deep and layered history, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in archaeology and ancient civilizations.TikTok