London Guided Tours - everything you need to know about St Paul’s Cathedral

St Paul’s Cathedral is one of London’s most magnificent and recognizable landmarks, and it is undoubtedly one of the must stop of all London guided tours. Its iconic dome dominates the skyline, embodying centuries of history, architecture, and faith. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an architecture buff, or someone seeking a moment of reflection, visiting St Paul’s offers a deep dive into the heart of British heritage.

We’ll cover everything you need to know about St Paul’s Cathedral—from its fascinating history to tips for visitors, highlighting why this iconic site should be on your London itinerary.

A brief history of St Paul’s Cathedral

St Paul’s Cathedral as it stands today is the fifth iteration of a cathedral on this site. The earliest version, built in 604 AD by Mellitus, a monk sent by Pope Gregory I, was a simple wooden church. Through centuries, St Paul’s experienced fires, Viking invasions, and structural collapses, but none were as devastating as the Great Fire of London in 1666, which completely destroyed the medieval structure.

The current St Paul’s was designed by Sir Christopher Wren and completed in 1710. Wren, an architect and polymath, transformed the architectural landscape of London with his visionary work. St Paul’s became the centerpiece of his efforts to rebuild the city after the Great Fire, and his design marked a significant departure from the Gothic style, embracing instead the Classical Baroque style that defines the building today.

Architectural Grandeur: a walk through the Cathedral

The design of St Paul’s Cathedral is a testament to Wren’s architectural brilliance. Let’s break down some of the key features:

1. The Dome

The dome of St Paul’s is one of the largest in the world, measuring 111 meters (365 feet) high. It is actually made up of three separate domes: an inner dome, a brick cone for structural support, and the external dome you see from the outside. Visitors can climb up to the Whispering Gallery, located at the base of the inner dome. This gallery is named for its incredible acoustics—whispers on one side of the dome can be heard clearly on the other side.

Above the Whispering Gallery are the Stone Gallery and the Golden Gallery, both offering panoramic views of London. The ascent to the top involves over 500 steps, but the sight from the Golden Gallery is well worth the climb.

2. The Nave and the Quire

Upon entering, you’ll walk through the cathedral’s magnificent nave. St Paul’s is known for its grand, sweeping nave, with towering columns and intricate detailing that showcase both Wren’s architectural genius and the craftsmen’s extraordinary skill. The quire is where the choir sits during services and is home to ornate woodwork, marble statues, and beautiful mosaics.

3. The Crypt

Beneath the cathedral lies the crypt, the largest in Europe, where some of the nation’s most notable figures are buried. Sir Christopher Wren himself lies here, alongside Lord Nelson and the Duke of Wellington. Wren’s epitaph, written in Latin, reads: “If you seek his monument, look around you,” highlighting how the cathedral is his enduring legacy.

Historical and cultural significance

St Paul’s Cathedral has played a pivotal role in British history. It has hosted many significant events, including:

• Winston Churchill’s Funeral (1965): Following the death of Britain’s World War II Prime Minister, a state funeral was held at St Paul’s. The funeral was attended by world leaders, and the streets of London were filled with mourners.
• The Wedding of Charles and Diana (1981): This royal wedding, watched by millions around the world, cemented St Paul’s Cathedral in popular culture.
• Services of National Importance: St Paul’s has been a focal point for events of national mourning and celebration, including Jubilee celebrations for Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth II, as well as memorial services for those who died in the 9/11 attacks.

Art and sculpture at St Paul’s

St Paul’s is not just an architectural wonder—it’s also a gallery of beautiful art and sculpture.

Notable works include:

• Henry Moore’s “Mother and Child”: A poignant sculpture found in the North Quire Aisle, dedicated to the victims of the Blitz.
• The American Memorial Chapel: A post-World War II addition, this chapel honors the American soldiers stationed in Britain who lost their lives during the war. The stained glass windows are intricate and moving, depicting the relationship between the United States and the UK.
• The Mosaics: Wren originally planned for the interior to be plain, but later additions in the Victorian era included elaborate mosaics, which now adorn the ceilings and walls, adding rich texture and color to the cathedral’s interior.

Visiting St Paul’s Cathedral: an Urban Saunters Guide

At Urban Saunters, we believe a visit to St Paul’s Cathedral is essential to truly experiencing London’s historical and cultural heart. Here’s how you can make the most of your visit:

• Tickets & Hours: Open Monday to Saturday, tickets include access to the crypt and galleries.
• Climbing the Dome: Not for the faint-hearted! The 528 steps reward you with stunning views.
• Join a Service: Experience the cathedral’s rich heritage by attending a free service.

But for a deeper, curated experience, join one of Urban Saunters’ bespoke tours. Our knowledgeable guides offer personal stories and insights that bring the cathedral’s history to life—transforming your visit from standard to extraordinary. Explore the hidden narratives behind this architectural marvel as part of a smaller, intimate group.

Let us take you beyond the basics with a memorable Urban Saunters tour that captures the essence of London, from its soaring cathedrals to its secret corners.