In the northern gallery is the model of the first design for St. Paul's, over the abandonment of which, as we have said, Wren shed tears.
To reach the whispering gallery the visitor has to return towards the dome, and ascend another flight of steps. This gallery is so called from the fact that the faintest whisper uttered in one spot may be heard across the huge circle at a spot exactly opposite.
From it the best view is to be obtained of the paintings in the dome already noticed. From the whispering gallery, a staircase, with steps gradually becoming narrower and narrower, leads to the stone gallery, 223 ft. above the pavement, encircling the base of what has been called the "great colonnaded pedestal" of the dome.
It consists of an outer barrier with a stone breastwork, commanding a fine view of London, and also of the statues in the pediment of the west front, and the western towers of the cathedral itself.
Higher yet and higher must the visitor ascend to gain the outer golden gallery, so called on account of the gilt railings, from which a yet more extensive view may be enjoyed on a clear day.