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St. Paul's Cathedral Visitor Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go!
London is a city full of icons—Big Ben, the London Eye, Tower Bridge—but few places capture the spirit, soul, and skyline of the capital quite like St Paul’s Cathedral . Perched proudly at the highest point in the City of London, this architectural masterpiece has watched over centuries of history, survived the Blitz, and remains one of the most awe-inspiring sights in the city.
Whether you're in London for a long weekend or an extended stay, a visit to St Paul’s should be top of your list. From the jaw-dropping dome and whisper-perfect acoustics to the views that’ll make your jaw drop, there’s something for everyone—history lovers, architecture nerds, Instagrammers, and anyone with a pulse.
And if you're looking for somewhere stylish, central, and comfortable to stay, our serviced apartments near St Paul’s Cathedral make for the perfect base. Whether you're travelling solo, with a partner, or with the whole crew, our fully serviced apartments offer the flexibility of a home with the style of a boutique hotel—right in the heart of the action.
Now, let’s dive into everything you need to know to make your visit to St Paul’s Cathedral unforgettable...
History with a Capital H
First things first, let’s get a bit of history out of the way!
St. Paul’s Cathedral is more than just a pretty face. Built between 1675 and 1710, this stunning baroque masterpiece was designed by the legendary Sir Christopher Wren. It replaced an earlier cathedral that was destroyed in the Great Fire of London in 1666.
Over the years, St. Paul’s has witnessed some major moments in British history, including the funerals of notable figures like Winston Churchill and Admiral Lord Nelson, as well as the wedding of Charles, Prince of Wales, and Lady Diana Spencer.
Getting There
Getting to St Paul’s Cathedral is a breeze. The closest Tube stop is—no surprises— St Paul’s Station on the Central Line, which drops you right outside.
If you’re coming from elsewhere in the city, stations like Bank, Mansion House, and Blackfriars are all within a 5–10 minute walk. Prefer to travel above ground? Several bus routes run through the area, and it’s also a great spot to arrive by bike, with plenty of docking stations nearby.
Walking across the Millennium Bridge from the South Bank is also a must for that dramatic first view of the dome. And if you’re staying in one of our serviced apartments nearby , you can roll out of bed and stroll there in minutes. Easy.
The Dome: A View Like No Other
St. Paul’s is best known for its massive dome, which stands at an impressive 365 feet tall. But did you know you can climb up to the top for one of the most spectacular views in London?
The “Whispering Gallery,” located halfway up the dome, is famous for its unique acoustics—whisper something against the wall, and your friend on the other side will hear you crystal clear!
For the more adventurous, you can continue the climb up to the "Stone Gallery" and the "Golden Gallery," where you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the city, including landmarks like the Shard, the London Eye, and even Tower Bridge on a clear day.
Architectural Beauty
St. Paul’s Cathedral is an architectural marvel, both inside and out.
From the intricate mosaics on the ceiling to the majestic marble pillars, every inch of this cathedral oozes grandeur. Be sure to take some time to explore the interior, paying attention to the stunning stained-glass windows and the spectacular dome, which is a feat of engineering.
The cathedral's floor plan is shaped like a Latin cross, symbolizing both Christian faith and the shape of the crucifix.
The Crypt: Hidden Treasures
Beneath the cathedral lies the crypt, where some of the most famous figures in British history are buried, including Sir Christopher Wren himself.
It’s a peaceful space to wander around and reflect, and you might even stumble upon the tombs of other notable figures, such as the painter Sir Joshua Reynolds and the poet John Donne.
It’s a bit quieter here, offering a nice contrast to the hustle and bustle above.
When to Visit and How to Plan
St. Paul’s Cathedral is open to visitors throughout the week, but it’s always a good idea to check the website for the most up-to-date information.
The entry fee is well worth it, as it includes access to the entire cathedral, including the crypt and dome. You can also purchase tickets for guided tours, which provide a deeper insight into the history and significance of this iconic site.
If you’re short on time, you can also pop in for a free service or a short visit during certain hours. But trust us, you’ll want to take your time soaking in every corner of this historical treasure!
Where to Stay Nearby
Stay just minutes from the iconic dome at Your Apartment – St Paul’s . Our stylish serviced apartments offer everything you need for a comfy city stay—think fully equipped kitchens, plush beds, and super-fast Wi-Fi.
Whether you’re here for business or sightseeing, you’ll be right in the heart of the action with space to unwind when the day’s done. Why squeeze into a hotel room when you can spread out in style?