What Travellers Say
We wanted to go here because this is where Princess Diana got married and the photo of her long wedding gown train on the stairs outside is iconic. Since we also wanted to see what it looks like inside, I went ahead and reserved tickets online far in advance. In addition, to try and avoid the crowds, we went during the work week right when they opened. Since we got there early, we were able to admire the outside as well as the gardens. Once inside, it's overwhelming how ornate it is. Everywhere you look, there's intricately carved marble and gold, and when you look up, you're looking up at high ceilings with chandeliers and beautiful paintings. Even if you're not religious, one can't help but admire the architecture and artwork. It truly is fit for the wedding of a princess. Free audio guides are provided, so if you just want to sit and rest for a while, you can do so and still be learning something. The self guided tour ultimately leads you downstairs to the crypt where there's a gift shop and cafe. The cafe is much appreciated because after all that walking, it builds up an appetite. The prices were reasonable and I didn't realize that an offering of 2 different salads was a common practice here in England. At the very least, I was offered them here and again when I went to Windsor Castle. I ended up giving the second salad to my sister. Having lunch inside a crypt is also a unique and interesting experience, like the tables and chairs are right next to huge, gorgeous carved marble statues and it's just like "How is this real?" but then again, that seemed to be the sentiment the whole trip.
Visiting St Paul’s Cathedral was one of the highlights of my trip to London. The building is absolutely stunning both inside and out, and the scale of the dome is even more impressive in person. Climbing up to the Whispering Gallery and then higher to the Stone and Golden Galleries is definitely worth the effort. The views over London are fantastic, but be prepared for a lot of steps. Comfortable shoes help! Inside the cathedral there’s a lot of history, including memorials and the crypt where famous figures are buried. Even if you’re not particularly into architecture or religion, it’s still a fascinating place to explore. A few tips if you’re planning to visit: • Book tickets online if you can — it saves time. • Go earlier in the day as it gets busy. • Photography inside is limited in some areas. • Allow at least 1–2 hours if you want to climb the dome. It’s not the cheapest attraction in London, but the experience and views make it worthwhile. A must-see if you’re visiting the city. ⛪✨
St Paul's Cathedral is one of London’s most iconic landmarks and a masterpiece of English Baroque architecture. Designed by Sir Christopher Wren and completed in 1710, the cathedral was built after the Great Fire of London destroyed the previous medieval church. Its magnificent dome—one of the largest in the world—dominates the London skyline. Visitors can explore the famous Whispering Gallery, where even the quietest sounds travel along the curved walls, and climb to the Golden Gallery for panoramic views over the city. Inside, the cathedral features beautiful mosaics, impressive sculptures, and the crypt, where notable figures such as Admiral Lord Nelson and Duke of Wellington are buried. St Paul’s has hosted many historic events, including the wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer in 1981.
I’ve visited this iconic cathedral a few times, once during a regular tour and others to attend mass. While I paid the entrance fee once to climb the dome, attending a service allowed me to hear their incredible choir for free. The architecture is breathtaking, and the spiritual atmosphere during the choir performance is truly moving. If you go for free, you can't access the upper galleries, but the view of the interior and the altar is still 100% worth it. It is a must-visit in London for its history; just remember to check the schedules if you want to experience the music.
Visiting St. Paul’s Cathedral was absolutely worth it. The cathedral itself is stunning, but going all the way to the top was the highlight. The climb is long (lots of steps), but the views over London are incredible and give you a real sense of perspective. Cost: Adult tickets are around £25 (kids and concessions are less), and the price includes access to the cathedral, crypt, Whispering Gallery, and the dome. For how much you get to see, it’s worth the cost. Best time to go: • Early morning is best if you want fewer crowds • Weekdays are much quieter than weekends • Avoid mid-day if you don’t like lines, especially during tourist season Good to know: • Wear comfortable shoes the steps are no joke • Take your time going up and down • It’s peaceful at the top despite being in the middle of the city Overall, it’s one of those London experiences that feels meaningful, not rushed, and leaves a lasting impression. I’m really glad I made the climb.
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Fun Facts
The western towers end not with crosses or urns but gilded copper pineapples, modelled by Francis Bird and cast by Jean Tijou in July 1708.
On 7 May 1913, a plot to blow up the Bishop’s throne at St Paul’s was narrowly foiled after a Virger found a ticking bomb at the cathedral’s east end.
Sightseeing tickets at St Paul’s are older than most people assume: visitors were paying to look around in 1709, while the cathedral was still in its final stages of construction.
John Donne’s funeral effigy was the only monument to escape significant damage in the Great Fire, and the cathedral’s own account says the story goes that the dying Dean posed for it wrapped in a shroud.
Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee thanksgiving at St Paul’s on 22 June 1897 was not held inside the cathedral at all, but outside at the foot of the West Steps because of her frail health.
