Discover St. Paul's Cathedral | A Visitor's Introduction to St. Paul's Cathedral

Why is St. Paul's Cathedral Worth a Visit?

St Paul’s Cathedral is not only an architectural masterpiece but also a place where history, art, and spirituality converge. Its breathtaking interior, iconic dome, and impressive mosaics offer a visual feast, while its historical significance gives visitors a deep sense of connection to British heritage. Climbing to the top of the dome provides one of the best views of London, and the crypt holds memorials to some of the nation’s greatest figures, including Lord Nelson and the Duke of Wellington. Whether you are drawn by its religious significance, its architectural grandeur, or its role in Britain’s national identity, St Paul’s Cathedral offers an experience that is both awe-inspiring and deeply moving.

St. Paul's Cathedral Highlights

1. The Dome

St Paul’s iconic dome is one of the largest in the world, standing 111 metres (365 feet) high. The dome is actually comprised of three layers: the inner dome, the brick cone that supports the structure, and the outer dome that gives St Paul’s its distinctive silhouette. Visitors can climb 528 steps to reach the top, passing through several viewing points along the way:

• The Whispering Gallery: Located at 30 metres (99 feet) above the cathedral floor, the Whispering Gallery is famous for its acoustics—if you whisper along the wall, the sound will carry clearly to the opposite side.
• The Stone Gallery: The next level, 53 metres (173 feet) high, offers the first outdoor viewing platform, providing panoramic views of London.
• The Golden Gallery: The final and highest viewing point, 85 metres (280 feet) above the ground, offers unparalleled views of the London skyline, including landmarks such as the River Thames, the Shard, and Tower Bridge.

2. The Nave and Interior

The interior of St Paul’s Cathedral is as breathtaking as its exterior. The nave, with its grand arches and intricate decoration, is awe-inspiring, and the use of natural light enhances the cathedral’s spiritual atmosphere. The high altar, rebuilt after WWII, is adorned with a stunning gilded canopy. The dome’s interior is richly decorated with mosaics and paintings, including depictions of the life of St Paul. These mosaics, added in the Victorian era, shimmer under the light and add to the cathedral's sense of grandeur.

3. The Quire

The Quire is the most elaborately decorated section of the cathedral, featuring beautifully carved wooden stalls, intricate marble mosaics, and a high altar made from oak and marble. The Quire is where the clergy sit during services, and it holds the cathedral’s magnificent choir organ, which dates back to 1697. Visitors can marvel at the craftsmanship in this section and appreciate the space where many important services, including royal weddings, take place.

4. The Crypt

The crypt of St Paul’s Cathedral is the largest in Europe, stretching the length of the cathedral above it. It houses the tombs and memorials of some of the nation’s most significant historical figures, including:

• Admiral Lord Nelson: The hero of the Battle of Trafalgar is buried in an elaborate sarcophagus in the center of the crypt.
• The Duke of Wellington: The victor of the Battle of Waterloo, Wellington is commemorated with a grand tomb.
• Sir Christopher Wren: The architect of St Paul’s is buried here, with a simple plaque marking his resting place. His epitaph famously reads, "If you seek his monument, look around you."
• Other notable figures, including painters J.M.W. Turner and Sir Joshua Reynolds, are also memorialized in the crypt.

5. The American Memorial Chapel

Located behind the high altar, the American Memorial Chapel honors the American servicemen and women who lost their lives during World War II. The chapel was rebuilt after the war as part of the cathedral’s restoration efforts and features beautiful stained-glass windows and a roll of honor listing the names of the fallen. This chapel is a poignant reminder of the shared history between the United Kingdom and the United States, and its design blends seamlessly with the cathedral’s classical architecture.

6. The OBE Chapel

Dedicated to the Order of the British Empire, the OBE Chapel is a more intimate space within the cathedral, designed in a modern style. It was completed in the 1960s and honors those who have been recognized for their contributions to the nation.

7. The Great West Doors

The massive Great West Doors, which are rarely opened except for significant ceremonial events, provide a grand entrance to the cathedral. Standing over 30 feet tall, these doors face Ludgate Hill and are used during important services, such as royal events and state occasions. Visitors can admire the grandeur of these doors from the outside, offering a majestic view of the cathedral's facade.

8. Services and Special Events

St Paul’s Cathedral remains an active place of worship, hosting daily services and prayers. Major national events such as the funeral of Sir Winston Churchill and the wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer took place here. Visitors are welcome to attend services, including the famous Evensong, where the cathedral choir performs traditional Anglican choral music. Special events such as the annual Remembrance Day service draw thousands of attendees and are broadcast nationally.

Facilities at St. Paul’s Cathedral

1. Dining and Refreshments

While there are no formal dining options within the cathedral itself, visitors can enjoy refreshments at the nearby Café Paul, located in the crypt. The café serves a range of snacks, drinks, and light meals, offering a relaxing place to sit after exploring the cathedral. The surrounding area of St Paul’s also offers a wide variety of restaurants and cafes, including both casual and fine dining options.

2. Accessibility

St Paul’s Cathedral is committed to providing accessibility for all visitors. The main entrance has ramps for wheelchair access, and there are lifts available to certain parts of the building, though the dome’s upper galleries are not accessible due to the steep and narrow staircases. The cathedral offers large-print guides, Braille guides, and audio description tours for visually impaired visitors. Accessible toilets are located in the crypt.

3. Shopping

The St Paul’s Cathedral shop, located near the exit, offers a wide range of souvenirs, books, religious items, and gifts. Popular items include replicas of artworks from the cathedral, guidebooks, and commemorative items related to the cathedral’s history. The shop is a great place to pick up a memento of your visit.

4. Parking and Transportation

St Paul’s Cathedral is located in central London, and as such, there is no dedicated on-site parking. However, it is easily accessible by public transportation. The nearest Underground station is St Paul’s on the Central Line, located just a short walk from the cathedral. Several bus routes also stop nearby. For those driving, there are public car parks in the area, though spaces can be limited and expensive.

Nearby Attractions

1. Tate Modern

Just a short walk across the Millennium Bridge from St Paul’s, the Tate Modern is one of the world's leading contemporary art museums. It features a vast collection of modern art, including works by Picasso, Warhol, and Rothko.

2. The Museum of London

Located close to the Barbican Centre, the Museum of London offers a fascinating exploration of the city’s history, from prehistoric times to the modern day. It’s a great complement to a visit to St Paul’s, offering deeper insight into the city that has grown around the cathedral.

3. The Millennium Bridge

The striking pedestrian-only Millennium Bridge connects St Paul’s Cathedral to the Tate Modern and Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre on the South Bank. Offering stunning views of the Thames, the bridge provides a scenic walking route across the river.

4. The Monument to the Great Fire of London

A short walk from St Paul’s, the Monument commemorates the Great Fire of London in 1666, which led to the construction of the current St Paul’s Cathedral. Visitors can climb the 311 steps to the top for another excellent view of the city.

Practical Advice for Visitors

1. Tickets and Packages: Admission to St Paul’s Cathedral includes access to the main areas, the dome, and the crypt. Tickets can be purchased online in advance at a discounted rate or on-site. Family tickets and guided tour packages are also available. Admission is free for those attending services.

2. Best Times to Visit: St Paul’s is busiest during weekends and holidays, so visiting during weekdays or early in the morning offers a quieter experience. Special services and events may restrict access to parts of the cathedral, so it’s worth checking the schedule in advance.

3. Dress Code: As a working place of worship, visitors are asked to dress respectfully when visiting St Paul’s. Hats should be removed inside the cathedral, and visitors are expected to behave in a manner appropriate for a religious site.

4. Photography: Photography is not permitted inside the cathedral, except in certain areas. Visitors are encouraged to check with staff for designated photography zones.