Event location: St Paul's Cathedral. Ongoing event.
St Paul's Cathedral, whose iconic dome dominates London's skyline, is England's architectural masterpiece and place of national celebration. The cathedral was designed by the famed architect Sir Christopher Wren and is considered as Wren's definitive achievement. The present cathedral was built with the approval of King Charles II following the Great Fire of London of 1666 which destroyed its predecessor and construction took 35 years from 1675 " 1710, spanning the lives of five monarchs. In fact this is the fourth cathedral to stand on this spot in the City of London with the first St Paul's built in 604.
Once blackened by pollution, St Paul's has undergone fifteen years of careful internal and external restoration work. This work was completed to coincide with the 300th anniversary of the completion of the present cathedral which was celebrated in 2011. St Paul's is now filled with a wonderful natural light and the true magnificence of the Portland stone, glittering mosaics and the Thornhill paintings which adorn the inside of the dome can be fully appreciated.
Take advantage of included touch-screen multimedia guides in 11 languages, or guided tours taking visitors to otherwise inaccessible areas. Explore the cathedral floor which saw the Royal Wedding of Prince Charles to Lady Diana Spencer in 1981, and national services of thanksgiving for the Royal Family such as the Queen's Golden Jubilee in 2002 and Diamond Jubilee in 2012.
Visit the Whispering Gallery to test the unique acoustics, and then climb further to the Stone and Golden Galleries which offer breathtaking panoramic views across the city.
Descend to the crypt which houses tombs and memorials to famous Britons such as Admiral Lord Nelson, The Duke of Wellington and Wren himself. Visitors can enjoy an award-winning video exhibition located here; 'Oculus: an eye into St Paul's' is a 270° HD film experience that brings the 1400 years of the cathedral's history to life. The films offer visitors a unique insight into the history of the site and St Paul's as a vibrant working church.
St Paul's Cathedral is open for sightseeing Monday " Saturday 8.30am " 4pm (last admission).
Once inside the cathedral the galleries are open between 9.30am - 4.15pm.
The cathedral closes for sightseeing at 4.30pm
Please note that special services or events may close all or part of the cathedral at short notice.
Please note that children must be accompanied by an adult when visiting the galleries.
Filming and photography is not allowed inside the cathedral.
Child Age 6 to 17 years
Senior 60+
Family is 2 adults and 2 children