St Paul's Cathedral
A baroque cathedral with a dome designed by Wren. Climb 528 steps to the Golden Gallery for views over the City of London. Charles and Diana were married here.
St Paul's Cathedral was designed by Christopher Wren after the Great Fire of London in 1666 and completed in 1710. Its 111-meter dome has defined the London skyline for centuries. The cathedral survived the Blitz miraculously and has hosted the wedding of Charles and Diana, as well as the state funerals of Winston Churchill and Margaret Thatcher. Highlights inside include the Thornhill murals in the dome, the golden mosaics of the high altar, and the Whispering Gallery, where a whisper against the wall can be heard on the opposite side. Climbing further up to the Stone Gallery and the Golden Gallery, a total of 528 steps, offers views over the Thames and the City of London. The crypt contains the tombs of Wren, Nelson, and the Duke of Wellington. Admission is about 25 pounds, cheaper when booked online, and includes a multimedia guide. Allow about 2 hours for the visit. The cathedral is closed to sightseers on Sundays but open for free worship. Evensong at 5 p.m. on weekdays is also free to attend.
St Paul's Underground station is right outside. From the south side of the cathedral, cross the Millennium Bridge to reach Tate Modern on the South Bank. Then walk east along the river for about 10 minutes to reach Borough Market.
Opening hours
Mon–Sat 08:30–16:30 (Sunday for worship only)