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

Architectural and Historic Significance

The current St. Paul’s Cathedral is the fifth church to stand on the site, with previous versions dating back to AD 604. The cathedral was built after the Great Fire of London in 1666, which destroyed much of the city, including the medieval cathedral that previously occupied the site. Sir Christopher Wren’s design, characterized by its imposing dome and harmonious proportions, reflects the spirit of the English Restoration period.

The dome of St. Paul’s, inspired by St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, is one of the largest in the world, measuring 111 meters (365 feet) from the ground to the cross at its summit. The dome is a prominent feature of London’s skyline and can be seen from various points across the city.

St. Paul’s has been the venue for many significant national events, including the funerals of Lord Nelson, the Duke of Wellington, and Sir Winston Churchill, as well as the wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer in 1981.

Visitor Experience

St. Paul’s Cathedral offers a rich experience for visitors, combining religious significance with artistic and historic treasures. Upon entering, visitors are greeted by the vastness of the nave, with its grand arches and intricate mosaics. The cathedral’s interior is adorned with stunning artworks, including the intricate carvings of Grinling Gibbons and the mosaic ceilings in the Quire.

The Dome: A highlight of any visit is the opportunity to climb to the top of the dome, which consists of three galleries. The first is the Whispering Gallery, located 30 meters (99 feet) above the cathedral floor. Known for its unique acoustics, a whisper against its wall can be heard clearly on the opposite side. Above the Whispering Gallery is the Stone Gallery, offering an outdoor view from 53 meters (174 feet), and finally, the Golden Gallery at 85 meters (280 feet), providing a panoramic view of London.

Crypt and Memorials: The crypt of St. Paul’s is the final resting place of some of Britain’s most famous figures, including Sir Christopher Wren, Lord Nelson, and the Duke of Wellington. Visitors can explore these memorials and appreciate the significance of those buried here. The crypt also houses the cathedral’s café and shop.

Audio and Guided Tours: To enhance the visit, St. Paul’s offers audio guides included with the admission ticket, providing detailed information about the cathedral’s history, architecture, and notable features. Guided tours led by knowledgeable experts are also available, offering deeper insights into the cathedral’s past and present.

Practical Information

Location: St. Paul’s Cathedral is centrally located in the City of London, with the nearest Underground station being St. Paul’s on the Central Line. Other nearby stations include Mansion House and Blackfriars.

Tickets: Admission tickets can be purchased online or at the cathedral. Online booking is often cheaper and allows for a faster entry. Ticket prices typically start around £21 for adults, with discounts for children, seniors, and families.

Opening Hours: The cathedral is open to visitors from Monday to Saturday, with visiting hours generally from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM. It is closed to tourists on Sundays, reserved for worship services.

Accessibility: St. Paul’s is accessible to visitors with disabilities, with ramps, lifts, and accessible toilets available. However, due to the historic nature of the building, some areas, particularly the upper galleries, may be challenging to access.