St Paul's Cathedral
About St Paul's Cathedral
Sir Christopher Wren's masterpiece crowning Ludgate Hill, an English Baroque cathedral famous for its vast dome, the Whispering Gallery and its role as a symbol of London's resilience.
History & Heritage
The present St Paul's Cathedral was designed by Sir Christopher Wren and built between 1675 and 1710, replacing the medieval Old St Paul's that was destroyed in the Great Fire of London in 1666. Its enormous dome, inspired by St Peter's in Rome, rises 111 metres and dominated the London skyline for centuries. The English Baroque design was revolutionary for its time and remains one of the finest cathedrals in the world.
St Paul's has been the setting for many defining national moments, including the funerals of Lord Nelson, the Duke of Wellington and Sir Winston Churchill, the Jubilee celebrations of monarchs, and the wedding of Charles and Diana in 1981. During the Blitz of the Second World War, an iconic photograph of the dome standing defiant amid smoke and flames made it an enduring symbol of London's survival.
What to Expect
Expect a breathtaking Baroque interior of soaring arches, mosaics and monuments. The energetic can climb 528 steps to three galleries: the acoustically remarkable Whispering Gallery, then the outdoor Stone and Golden Galleries for panoramic views over the City. The crypt holds the tombs of Nelson, Wellington and Wren himself. Attending choral evensong is a free and atmospheric way to experience the cathedral in use.
Known For
Highlights
- The dome climb
- Whispering Gallery
- Baroque interior
- The crypt
- City skyline views
- Choral evensong
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can you climb the dome of St Paul's Cathedral?
- Yes, visitors can climb 528 steps to reach the Whispering Gallery, the Stone Gallery and finally the Golden Gallery at the top of the dome for panoramic views across London.
- What is the Whispering Gallery?
- The Whispering Gallery runs around the interior of the dome. Its curved walls carry sound so effectively that a whisper against the wall can be heard clearly on the far side, over 30 metres away.
- Is there a charge to enter St Paul's Cathedral?
- Yes, there is an admission charge for sightseeing, which includes the galleries and crypt. Entry is free for those attending a service, such as the daily choral evensong.
More London Landmarks
Big Ben & the Houses of Parliament
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Tower Bridge
The instantly recognisable Victorian bascule and suspension bridge over the Thames, famous for its twin Gothic towers, high-level glass walkways and a lifting roadway that still opens for tall ships.
Buckingham Palace
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