St. Paul's Cathedral Tours and Activities

St. Paul\'s Cathedral which includes heritage architecture and a church or cathedral
St. Paul\'s Cathedral featuring a church or cathedral and a city
St. Paul's Cathedral
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St. Paul\'s Cathedral which includes a church or cathedral, interior views and heritage architecture


Visit this cathedral to learn about the history behind London’s most iconic church and its Baroque dome that overlooks the city.

St. Paul’s Cathedral is a 17th-century Baroque structure that is arguably the most iconic landmark in London. It is the most recognized work in the career of Britain’s most famous architect, Sir Christopher Wren. The cathedral sits on London’s highest point, Ludgate Hill, overlooking the rest of the otherwise flat city. It stands at 366 feet (111.6 metres) high. The cathedral hosts state funerals, weddings and celebrations.

Admire the Baroque design of the large cathedral. Gaze up at its central dome, which stands out above the rest of the cathedral and the city. It was inspired by Michelangelo’s dome in the Vatican City and is visible from most parts of the city.

See the intricate façade on the western side of the cathedral. Marvel at the twin towers that rise up either side of its grand entrance. Admire the ten pairs of columns in the centre.

In the vast interior of the cathedral, look up at the majestic arches and columns. Browse works of art, such as sculptures, paintings and metalwork. Locate the large monument to former political and military figure The Duke of Wellington on a horse.

Take a guided tour of the church or use the audio guide. The church is open to sightseers from morning until late in the afternoon, except on Sundays.

The construction of the cathedral was part of a project to rebuild the city following the Great Fire of London in 1666. The funerals for war heroes Horatio Nelson and Winston Churchill and former Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher were held at the cathedral. Other memorable events include the wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana and Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee celebration.

St. Paul’s Cathedral sits in the centre of London, only a few streets north of the River Thames. Several London Underground stations with excellent transportation links surround it. There are many buses that take passengers to the cathedral or you can take the River Bus along the River Thames.

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Best Lodging Options Near St. Paul's Cathedral

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Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge

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Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near St. Paul's Cathedral

When visiting St. Paul's Cathedral, tourists can enjoy a variety of activities nearby, including delightful cafes perfect for a relaxing break. Additionally, visitors can indulge in rejuvenating day spas, embark on scenic sightseeing tours, and explore the vibrant theatre scene. For those looking to shop, the area offers an array of unique boutiques to browse, making it an ideal spot for a well-rounded day out in London.

Shopping

Visit Borough Market, only 1.1km from St. Paul's Cathedral, for fresh produce and unique gifts. The Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9 3/4 is 3.2km away, perfect for fans. Brunswick Centre, 1.6km away, offers family-friendly shopping and entertainment options.

Recreation

At O2 Arena, enjoy exhilarating sports events that energize the spirit, located 8.0km from St. Paul's Cathedral. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of ABBA Arena, just 6.4km away, for a night of unforgettable music and entertainment. For a peaceful retreat, visit Hampstead Heath, 8.0km away, offering serene nature and relaxation.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of the IFS Cloud Royal Docks Station's cable car gondola, offering stunning views 8.0km from St. Paul's Cathedral. For climbing enthusiasts, Vertical Chill is a fantastic outdoor climbing venue located 1.6km away. Don’t miss the adventure of go-karting at Oasis Go-Kart Track, 4.8km away!

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near St. Paul's Cathedral! Enjoy breathtaking views from the London Eye, indulge in cultural performances at the Barbican Arts Centre, or revel in the historical ambiance of the Globe Theatre, all offering a mix of family fun, romance, and entertainment.

Find the best attractions near St. Paul's Cathedral

St. Paul's Cathedral, a stunning architectural marvel in London, offers visitors a rich cultural experience. Explore the surrounding streets and piazza, perfect for families and culture enthusiasts alike. Don't miss the chance to learn more about this historic church and its nearby attractions, providing a delightful blend of city life and heritage. Whether you're seeking detailed cathedral information or local points of interest, St. Paul's is a must-visit destination.

  • London Bridge: Experience the modern vibrancy of London Bridge, located 966m from St. Paul's Cathedral. This bustling area offers a dynamic atmosphere with shops, eateries, and stunning views of the River Thames.
  • Piccadilly Circus: Just 3.2km away, Piccadilly Circus is a lively street known for its bright lights and iconic advertising displays. It's the perfect spot for people-watching and soaking in the city's energetic vibe.
  • Tower Bridge: A mile from St. Paul's, Tower Bridge is a historic marvel that showcases London's rich culture. Walk across this stunning structure and enjoy its fascinating exhibitions detailing its history.

Best time to go to St. Paul's Cathedral

Visitor numbers around St. Paul's Cathedral is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit St. Paul's Cathedral is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January40.5°F (4.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February41.7°F (5.4°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March45.0°F (7.2°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly Low
April49.5°F (9.7°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
May55.0°F (12.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
June61.0°F (16.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
July64.9°F (18.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
August64.6°F (18.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
September60.4°F (15.8°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
October54.5°F (12.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November47.1°F (8.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
December42.8°F (6.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for St. Paul's Cathedral

For a budget-friendly visit to St. Paul's Cathedral, consider travelling during the off-peak months of January to March for lower accommodation rates. Mondays are typically the cheapest days to stay, while Wednesdays are the priciest. Utilize public transport for efficient travel, and explore nearby free attractions like Hyde Park and London Bridge. Book your hotel about a month in advance, or check Expedia for last-minute deals and packages that combine flights, hotels, and activities. Adjust filters for eco-friendly options and compare rates to find the best savings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around St. Paul's Cathedral are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to July and September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around St. Paul's Cathedral is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around St. Paul's Cathedral is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around St. Paul's Cathedral is Wednesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to tailor your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and desired hotel type. For instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" option will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly accommodations currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply adjust the price filter from low to high.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some money by combining your hotel stay near St. Paul's Cathedral with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.