Main altar.
1 / 10

St Paul's Episcopal Cathedral

4.7
·137 reviews·, United Kingdom

A masterpiece of English Baroque architecture by Sir Christopher Wren, St. Paul's Cathedral offers stunning interiors, unique acoustics, and panoramic...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Main altar.

St Paul's Episcopal Cathedral

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A masterpiece of English Baroque architecture by Sir Christopher Wren, St. Paul's Cathedral offers stunning interiors, unique acoustics, and panoramic city views.

4.7
(137 reviews)

"The silence is such a wonderful feeling, isn't the world a noisy place these days?"

Vertical photo
TIP

Book Online & Save :ticket:

Save money and time by booking your St. Paul's Cathedral tickets online in advance.

Wear Comfy Shoes :athletic_shoe:

You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing stairs to reach the dome!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Whispering Gallery

The Whispering Gallery

Dome Interior

Experience the unique acoustics where a whisper on one side can be heard on the other. A marvel of engineering and sound!

TikTok
Stunning Stained Glass

Stunning Stained Glass

Main Nave and Chapels

Marvel at the intricate beauty and vibrant colors of the stained glass windows, especially when illuminated by sunlight.

Reddit
Panoramic City Views

Panoramic City Views

Dome Summit

Ascend to the top for breathtaking 360-degree views of London's iconic skyline. Worth every step!

TikTokInstagram+1
The Crypt

The Crypt

Below the Cathedral Floor

Explore the resting place of notable figures and discover the history beneath the grand cathedral.

Reddit
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Book Tickets Online for Savings

Save money and skip the queue by booking your St. Paul's Cathedral tickets online in advance. Walk-in prices are higher, and pre-booking ensures your spot, especially during peak times. TikTok

Embrace the Climb for Epic Views

Don't shy away from the 528 steps to the top! The panoramic views of London from the dome are a highlight for many visitors and offer a unique perspective of the city. TikTokInstagram

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Sunny Afternoons
Why
Sunlight illuminates windows
Crowd
Medium
When
Evening Services
Why
Experience worship and music
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

There is no beauty like Allegri’s Miserere… Sung beautifully here by St Paul’s Cathedral Choir, watch the whole performance now on Youtube and @Global Player. #classicalmusic
@classicfm
80.2K likes • 639.6K views

Book Online & Save :ticket:

Save money and time by booking your St. Paul's Cathedral tickets online in advance. TikTok

Wear Comfy Shoes :athletic_shoe:

You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing stairs to reach the dome! TikTok

An amazing tour above the vaulting of St Paul’s Cathedral London with Rebecca Thompson, Head of the Works Dept and James Digger, stonemason. So great learning and collaborating with these awesome people.#idea #fix #tips #team #LearnOnTikTok
@lsx.jamess
13K likes • 250K views
St. Paul's Episcopal Cathedral . . . . . #europe #travel #worldtravel #worldtraveler #europeantravel #europeantravel #solotravel #explore #explore #worldexplorer #hiddengems #offthebeatenpath #travelphotography #travelphoto #living_europe #postcardplaces #beautifuldestinations #topeuropephoto #streetsoeurope #travelingthroughtheworld #europe_vacations #scotland #highlands #streetphotography #dun...
thereal_j.f.r
7 likes • 120 views

Capture the Details :camera_with_flash:

The intricate architecture and stained glass are incredibly photogenic. Instagram

Seek Tranquility :dove:

Find peace and quiet inside, a welcome respite from the bustling city. Reddit

Emma and other guests at St. Paul’s Cathedral in London for Mel B’s wedding 🎥 Credit: @hellomag #EmmaBunton #babyspice #spicegirls #stpaulscathedral
spicegirlsnet
2.5K likes • 58.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Book Online & Save :ticket:

Save money and time by booking your St. Paul's Cathedral tickets online in advance. TikTok

Wear Comfy Shoes :athletic_shoe:

You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing stairs to reach the dome! TikTok

Capture the Details :camera_with_flash:

The intricate architecture and stained glass are incredibly photogenic. Instagram

Seek Tranquility :dove:

Find peace and quiet inside, a welcome respite from the bustling city. Reddit

Consider a Guided Tour :magnifying_glass:

Learn fascinating history and architectural details from knowledgeable guides. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.7
(137 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise St. Paul's Cathedral for its breathtaking architecture, stunning stained glass, and the unique acoustic experience of the Whispering Gallery. Many find the climb to the dome well worth the effort for the panoramic city views. While some note the entrance fee, most agree it's a worthwhile historical and spiritual experience, offering a peaceful respite in the city.

"Lovely. Small but beutiful. Many interesting stained glass windows. The silence is such a wonderful feeling, isn't the world a noisy place these days?🥲. If you want some peace in your head, visit here and sit a while. Your mind will relax 😌 ✨️ 🙂 ☺️."

Elizabeth

"Noticed a welcome sign on a wet and windy day. I entered seeking shelter. I didn't expect to be greeted with such stunning architecture and beautiful stained glass windows. I definitely stayed longer than intended. I sat a while, alone in the tranquility taking in the perfection of the masonry. If you have the opportunity, as I did, pop inside."

Sonia Macphee

"Unlike many other cathedrals, St Paul's has become hemmed in by other buildings so its only when you go inside that you can appreciate its true beauty. The foundation stone was laid in 1853, opened for worship in 1855, before being consecrated as a church in 1865, then elevated to a cathedral in 1905."

Nuts

What People Like

Stunning architecture
Whispering Gallery acoustics
Panoramic dome views

What People Dislike

Entrance fee

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

St. Paul's Cathedral is easily accessible via public transport. The nearest Tube station is St. Paul's on the Central Line. Numerous bus routes also stop nearby. TikTokInstagram

On-street parking is very limited in the City of London. It's highly recommended to use public transport or a taxi/rideshare service. TikTok

Yes, St. Paul's is centrally located and can be reached by walking from many parts of central London. It's a great way to see the city! TikTok+1

For iconic views, try looking down alleys or through trees for unique perspectives. Millennium Bridge offers a fantastic approach with the cathedral in the background. TikTokInstagram

Just a short walk away, you can find secluded courtyards with ancient treasures, offering a quieter experience away from the main crowds. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry fees apply for general visiting. Booking online in advance is cheaper than purchasing tickets on the day. TikTok

While general admission requires a ticket, attending a regular worship service is free and a wonderful way to experience the cathedral's atmosphere. Reddit

Opening hours vary, so it's best to check the official website before your visit. They are typically open for sightseeing during specific hours, with different times for services. TikTok

For sightseeing, a ticket is required. However, you can attend daily services without purchasing an admission ticket. TikTok

It is highly recommended to book tickets online in advance to secure your entry and often at a reduced price compared to walk-in tickets. TikTok

🎫 ⛪ Onsite Experience

Inside, you'll find stunning architecture, intricate stained glass windows, the Whispering Gallery, the Crypt, and the magnificent High Altar. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! The climb involves 528 steps, but the panoramic views of London from the dome are spectacular and a major highlight for many visitors. TikTokInstagram+1

The Whispering Gallery is a famous feature inside the dome where a whisper can be heard across the entire diameter of the gallery due to its unique acoustics. TikTok

Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but flash photography and tripods may be restricted. Always check for signage. Instagram

The current St. Paul's Cathedral was designed by Sir Christopher Wren and is a masterpiece of English Baroque architecture, built after the Great Fire of London. TikTok+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There is a cafe located within the cathedral premises, offering refreshments and light meals for visitors. TikTok

The area around St. Paul's offers a variety of restaurants, cafes, and pubs catering to different tastes and budgets. TikTok

It's generally best to consume food and drinks outside the main worship areas. Check the cathedral's specific policies. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Iconic views can be found from Millennium Bridge, along the Thames, and from various streets offering glimpses through alleys. TikTokInstagram

Tripod use may be restricted, especially during busy periods or services. It's advisable to check the cathedral's photography policy. Instagram

Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful light. Sunny afternoons are great for illuminating the stained glass. Instagram

While personal photography is usually allowed, flash is often prohibited to protect the interior and avoid disturbing visitors. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

St. Paul's Cathedral can be a fascinating visit for families, though the climb to the dome might be challenging for very young children. The Whispering Gallery is a fun, interactive element that kids often enjoy trying out. TikTok

Focus on the visual wonders like the stained glass windows and the sheer scale of the architecture. The crypt can also spark curiosity about history. Consider a visit during a less crowded time to make the experience more manageable. Bringing snacks and water is advisable, though there is a cafe on-site. Reddit

🚶 Budget Travelers

While general admission has a fee, attending a daily worship service is free and offers a chance to experience the cathedral's beauty and atmosphere without cost. Reddit

Look for online booking discounts for sightseeing tickets, as they are typically cheaper than walk-in prices. TikTok Exploring the exterior and surrounding areas, like Millennium Bridge, also provides great photo opportunities without an entry fee. TikTok

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

St. Paul's Cathedral is a photographer's dream, offering a wealth of architectural details, dramatic light, and iconic city views. The stained glass windows are particularly stunning when illuminated by sunlight, creating vibrant colors and patterns. Instagram

For exterior shots, Millennium Bridge provides a classic vantage point. Experiment with different angles and times of day to capture the cathedral's grandeur. The dome climb offers unique perspectives, but be mindful of potential restrictions on tripods and flash photography inside. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Architectural Marvel: Sir Christopher Wren's Masterpiece

St. Paul's Cathedral stands as a testament to the genius of Sir Christopher Wren, who designed the current structure after the Great Fire of London in 1666. It's a prime example of English Baroque architecture, characterized by its grandeur, symmetry, and dramatic use of light and shadow. The iconic dome, a symbol of London, is one of the largest in the world and a feat of engineering for its time. TikTok+1

Visitors are often struck by the intricate details throughout the cathedral, from the ornate carvings to the soaring columns. The Whispering Gallery is a must-visit, showcasing the building's acoustic wonders. For those who venture further, the Stone Gallery and Golden Gallery at the very top of the dome offer unparalleled, albeit challenging, access to breathtaking panoramic views of the city. TikTokInstagram

Beyond its visual splendor, St. Paul's has played a significant role in British history, hosting royal weddings, state funerals, and national celebrations. Its resilience, having survived the Blitz during World War II, further cements its status as a beloved national monument. Instagram

Experiencing the Heights: The Dome Climb

The ascent to the top of St. Paul's Cathedral's dome is an adventure in itself. With 528 steps to conquer, it's a rewarding challenge that offers an unforgettable perspective of London. The climb takes you through different levels, each offering unique insights into the cathedral's structure. TikTok

As you ascend, you'll pass the Whispering Gallery, a circular walkway known for its peculiar acoustics. Continue upwards, and you'll reach the Stone Gallery, offering open-air views and a closer look at the dome's exterior. The final push leads to the Golden Gallery, the highest accessible point, providing a truly spectacular 360-degree panorama of the sprawling city below. Instagram

Visitors consistently rave about the views, describing them as 'epic' and 'worth every step.' It's an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts and anyone wanting to grasp the sheer scale of London. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a strenuous but incredibly rewarding climb. TikTokInstagram

Finding Peace and Reflection

In the heart of bustling London, St. Paul's Cathedral offers a sanctuary of peace and quiet. Many visitors find the tranquility within its walls a welcome escape from the city's noise. The serene atmosphere encourages reflection and a moment of calm. Reddit

The cathedral's interior, with its stunning architecture and beautiful stained glass, creates an environment conducive to contemplation. Sitting in the pews, bathed in the soft light filtering through the windows, allows for a deep sense of peace. It's a place where you can simply be present and absorb the spiritual ambiance. InstagramReddit

Whether you're attending a service or visiting for sightseeing, taking time to sit and absorb the surroundings can be a profoundly relaxing experience. The silence, punctuated only by the occasional distant chime or hushed footsteps, is a rare and precious commodity in modern urban life. Reddit

You may also like