St. Paul’s Cathedral

There has been a church on this site in the City of London for 1400 years and the current St. Paul’s Cathedral is the mother church of the Diocese of London. Designed by famed architect Sir Christopher Wren in the grand English Baroque style, it was completed in 1697 and the dome remained the highest structure in London until 1967. Visitors are welcome after the 8:00am Eucharist service, and a highlight is the Whispering Gallery where you and a friend can stand on opposite walls and hear each other across the void. Continue up the stairs to the Golden Gallery, at 280 feet it’s the high point of the outer dome, and you’ll be treated to panoramic views of London and up and down the River Thames.

There has been a church on this site in the City of London for 1400 years and the current St. Paul’s Cathedral is the mother church of the Diocese of London. Designed by famed architect Sir Christopher Wren in the grand English Baroque style, it was completed in 1697 and the dome remained the highest structure in London until 1967. Visitors are welcome after the 8:00am Eucharist service, and a highlight is the Whispering Gallery where you and a friend can stand on opposite walls and hear each other across the void. Continue up the stairs to the Golden Gallery, at 280 feet it’s the high point of the outer dome, and you’ll be treated to panoramic views of London and up and down the River Thames.

London is a place of change. It’s an on-the-go city that’s always looking forward, even though it greatly respects the past. Take that sentiment literally when you board a classic Routemaster for a ride. The route for bus number 15 will take you past London’s timeless sites, and for a fast tour, step on one of the few remaining old Routemasters at the Tower of London stop with the Thames at your back. The dome of St. Paul’s Cathedral will fill the tops of the right-hand windows, and a quick opposing glance will put the Millennium Bridge into focus. Hop off at the Royal Courts of Justice – where you can grab a coffee alongside judges wearing historic white wigs – or stay seated until the route ends at the Charing Cross Station.

It really is a lovely cathedral though it is not in this picture. St. Paul’s Cathedral towers over the shoulder of the photographer (me!) snapping a perfect picture of other entranced photographers. Loading, viewing and focusing, these photographers see what I have seen: an incredibly picturesque white stone English Baroque church designed by Christopher Wren with a tall blue patina dome and ornate clock tower. St. Paul’s Cathedral is the second largest church in England and the seat of the Bishop of London. Famously adorning postcards, this cathedral has seen many a solemn and celebratory occasion including the funeral of Winston Churchill, Jubilee celebrations for Queen Victoria, the wedding of Charles, Prince of Wales to Lady Diana Spencer and the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II. With an interior to rival its exterior, you, like these photographers, will want to approach with camera in hand ready for that perfect picture....

After walking across the footbridge, there is a well constructed view of Saint Paul’s that’s quite stunning. The bridge was designed to capture the church as if it were floating above the Thames. A very smart design.

In the architecturally thrilling City of London, modern frequently backs onto old. It is an exciting place that all visitors to the capital should get to know. Our walking tour takes in buildings from the men responsible for rebuilding much of the City after the Great Fire: Christopher Wren and Nicholas Hawksmoor. You’ll also see works by John Soane, and recent “starchitects” including Jean Nouvel, Rem Koolhaas, Norman Foster, and Richard Rogers. At the end of the tour, you’ll leave the City of London to go a short distance south of the Thames to visit the Shard — London’s most controversial new build and currently the tallest residential building in Europe. Your guide will share details about architect Renzo Piano’s design and you’ll get to take in some of the best views of London. Photo of St. Paul’s Cathedral, designed by Christopher Wren, by Duncan Harris, https://flic.kr/p/ohEoFX

and...don’t let Westminster Abby took all your attention, St.Paul’s Cathedral in London also worth visit. If you happen to visit there in a warm weather, feel free to sit in the courtyard, where you will see many others sitting there, reading a book, and relaxing. It’s also Lady Diana’s wedding location.

Another great day in London at St Paul’s . It not only is a tourist attraction but is a very active church. They will not allow you in to sight see while mass is taking place, so check the schedule before arriving. It is surprising how many locals have never taken the time to visit the crypts below, they are amazing and moving at the same time! A must for all who visit London!

Spent a week in London in the Summer of 2012 and it was amazing!