Visit London’s Magnificent Cathedrals And Churches

By Author: Gabi O.
Total Articles: 9
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London is a city of stunning architecture, with amazing buildings coming into view around every corner. However, some of the most impressive attractions on its skyline come in the form of cathedrals and churches, many of which are well worth a visit for things to do in London.

Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey has been the coronation church ever since William the Conqueror was crowned there back in 1066, meaning that it is irreversibly intertwined with the royal history of Britain. Many kings, queens, princes and princesses have also been married there, and countless historical figures have been buried at the Abbey.

Most recently the eyes of the world were on the Abbey in 2011 as Kate Middleton walked down the aisle to be wed to Prince William, and people around the globe who were watching on that magical day may want to go see the stunning venue for real.

Among those buried at the abbey are Charles Dickens, Geoffrey Chaucer, Dr Samuel Johnson and Charles Darwin, and the church even features a special Scientists corner, where a memorial ...
... for Isaac Newton is found.

Southwark Cathedral

Southwark Cathedral is notable for being London’s oldest gothic building and is such is a must-see attraction for architecture fans.

The building was once merely a priory, with the main structure of the cathedral being built between 1220 and 1420. However, it is still very much an active London church, and sits in the charming surroundings of the historic Borough Market, which is extremely popular among foodies.

Southwark Cathedral may also be of interest to Shakespeare fans during their time in London. It has links to Elizabethan theatre and boasts a memorial to the Bard.

St Paul’s Cathedral

The iconic dome of St Paul’s Cathedral is one of London’s skyline’s most recognisable features. The church was designed by renowned architect Sir Christopher Wren and was built between 1675 and 1710.

It is widely thought that the highlight of a trip to St Paul’s Cathedral is the Whispering Gallery, which is situated 30 metres above the cathedral floor and is known for its haunting acoustics. Visitors can also ascend the 530 steps up to the Golden Gallery, which offers breath-taking panoramic views of central London.

Underneath the marvellous cathedral sits an elegant and spacious crypt where the tombs of significant historical figures can be found, including Admiral Lord Nelson and the Duke of Wellington.

All Hallows by the Tower

All Hallows by the Tower may be one of the smaller churches on the list, but it is certainly one of the most interesting thanks to its long history and status as the oldest church in the City of London.

It was originally founded in 675 AD, and there are plenty of historical treasures to be discovered within. Indeed, an arch from the original Saxon church still remains, and beneath this lies a Roman pavement that laid undetected until 1926.

This church has seen many famous faces pass through, including William Penn, the founder of Pennsylvania, who was baptised in the church and educated in its school room, and John Quincy Adams, sixth president of the USA, who chose it for his wedding venue in 1797.