St Paul's Cathedral

Things To Do

There are lots of things to do on your family day out to the Cathedral Church of St Paul. From daily guided tours and talks where you learn about the history of the Cathedral as well as how it was built! Like how the architecture had a 17th-century Baroque style to it. Attend tours to learn about the geometric staircase and the Crypt too! Did you know the spire was destroyed by lighting in 1561? And that the first classical architect Inigo Jones added a west front to the building? The Cathedral may have been deteriorating in the 16th century, but it underwent a reformation and revolution. 

Not to mention admiring the beautiful Cathedral dome, which is composed of 3 shells. An outer dome, a brick cone and an inner dome! The iconic dome is also 111m high and is one of the largest in the world built before the 20th century! You can also climb up St Paul's Cathedral, there's 528 steps to conquer!

The crypt is also the resting place for many of Britain's iconic and famous figures. Like Lord Nelson, Duke of Wellington and William Blake. 

Appreciating Art

If you're a fan of art, you can explore the expansive collection of beautiful Cathedral art here. And discover the theological messaging behind them too. From works like The Light of the World by William Holeman Hunt to James Thornhill's gilded dome murals.

In the 19th century, there were some interior changes made inside the Cathedral to suit the Victorian times. 

Not only are there spectacular paintings but also you can find a marble effigy of the form Dean of the Cathedral, John Donne. Who was also a famous poet! You don't have to be part of the Christian Community to enjoy a family day here. If you connect with art, and architecture and like to visit the iconic landmarks in the British capital, you'll enjoy St Paul's Cathedral! From admiring the Central Dome, and Western Towers to learning about the master carpenter who constructed the brilliant building.

Did you know in the South West Tower, one of their 4 bell towers was used to represent the Divination staircase in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban? That's where you see history come to life!

Famous Events at the Cathedral

A spiritual focus for the nation since its first service in 1697, many important events have taken place within its walls.

One of the reasons why the beautiful St Paul's Cathedral is famous is due to being the location of famous events. From the state funerals of Lord Nelson, the Duke of Wellington and Sir Winston Churchill to the royal wedding of Prince Charles to Lady Diana Spencer and the Thanksgiving services for Her Majesty The Queen's Golden Jubilee and 80th birthday.

Family Trails

Workbooks and 'family trails' on a wide range of topics related to the Cathedral are available to download from the St Paul's website (available through the link below!) which can - when printed in advance - help you make the most out of your trip and also help to keep the kids amused as they explore.

But of course, the pinnacle of any trip to St Paul's has to be the winding journey up the spiral staircase to the Whispering Gallery which is known for its acoustic properties, so you can sample its unique audio effects! Then travel up and out to the Stone and Golden Galleries, which afford a panoramic view of London that is second to none.

While you can go inside St Paul's Cathedral, you can't visit for free and you must book Cathedral tickets. This is because they receive no government funding, so they are solely responsible for keeping it open.

- Spectacular architecture that will blow you away

- Kids go free during the summer

- An important part of London's history

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