St. Paul’s Cathedral

Hailed as an angelic masterpiece, St Paul's Cathedral is the seat of the Bishop of London. The Cathedral is also regarded as the Mother Church of the Diocese of London. It resides on Ludgate Hill and is deemed as one of the largest cathedrals in Europe.

It’s rich historical background and grand design makes it one of the most impressive landmarks of London. It was constructed by Christopher Wren between the period of 1675 and 1711 and it embraces innovation and tradition. Besides being an impressive piece of art itself the cathedral is also home to some of the impressive art pieces spanning to different periods of time. If you're planning a trip to Europe, make sure to include London in your itinerary and explore the awe-inspiring beauty of this iconic cathedral along with other attractions

It was destroyed four times during the course of history but it still stands tall as a testament to the belief of people. From art installation to state funeral and royal weddings the cathedral has been the site for the most important events. It also boasts of having the biggest dome in the entire world etched at 366 feet height.

The Whispering Gallery is the star attraction of this cathedral where even the quietest whispers are transmitted across the dome. The burial memorial of St.Paul,Florence Nightingale, Sir Alexander Fleming, William Blake and and many other renowned figures can also be found over here.

• Located right within the historical center of the city of London, it is known as the Mother Church of the Diocese of London.
• The church is constructed on the city's highest point, i.e. Ludgate Hill.
• You can get a stunning view of St.Paul’s right across on a reasonably recent London Bridge.
• A total of 4 churches stood on this site. The new one was constructed because a massive fire destroyed the old church in 1087.
• The most prominent attraction of the Cathedral is its massive dome which is 111 meters high and consists of two defined stories of masonry, making it a remarkable architectural achievement and the best-recognized and most beautiful domes in the world.
• The church's interior design was inspired by the world-famous dome of the Pantheon in Rome.
• You can see an oculus at the apex of the dome and 8 painted decorations by Sir James Thornhill. These paintings represent the life of Paul the Apostle.
• Most important events took place in St. Paul’s Cathedral, like the wedding of Lady Diana Spencer and Prince Charles in 1981, the 80th and 90th birthday of Queen Elizabeth II, and thanksgiving services for Silver, Golden and Diamond Jubilees.
• The church has captured the imagination of filmmakers and artists worldwide.

History of St Paul’s Cathedral London

The history associated with Dr Paul’s Cathedral is quite eventful. Originally, a total of five churches were constructed on the particular site. The very first church was dedicated to Paul Apostle in 604 AD which was built by King Ethelbert regarding the summit of the popular hills of London Mellitus. The church was a woodwork showpiece. It was built with stone at the end of the 17th century by Erkenwald who was London’s Bishop.

The Cathedral had to face the wrath of destruction yet again in 962 as well as 1078. The Church was caught up in a major fire, but that still didn’t thaw it’s restoration. Surprisingly enough, till then the Cathedral evidently became the largest church building in Europe. Further extensive renovations during the 13th and the 14th Century contributed further to the expansion of the Cathedral.

In 1669 Christopher Wren undertook the task of constructing a new Church in order to replace the gothic Cathedral’s destroyed remnants due to fire. The very first design proposed by him was deemed as too modest in its structure. The second design, popularly known as 'the Great Model' featured Corinthian columns, a portico and a strikingly large dome.

The Cathedral was designed and shaped like a Greek Cross. The Bishop rejected the second proposal as well by deeming the project unsuitable for processions. Christopher Wren came up with a new design proposal which featured a huge nave and a small dome that was chosen in the year 1675.

After gaining the approval, Wren made certain alterations in the plan which included the enlargement of the dome. The first stone of the Cathedral was laid on 21 June 1675, and the construction of the building concluded in 1711.

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Places To Eat Near St. Paul’s Cathedral

Here is the list of the most famous restaurants near St.Cathedral.

1. Madison -

Hailed as one of the most famous rooftop bars and restaurants, Madison is one of the most Instagrammed spot in the city. The view offered here, featuring the towering St. Paul's Cathedral, will truly steal your breath away! The restaurant is also known to serve scrumptious and mouth-watering cuisines accompanied by delectable drinks and cocktails. 

2. Bread Street Chicken -

Bread Street Kitchen is a solemn and spacious art deco space which is an amalgamation of a gigantic bar, restaurant and open kitchen. The large windows of the restaurant offer a picturesque view of the entire city! Travellers longing for a traditional all-day dining experience should definitely visit this restaurant.

3. City Lounge -

Known for its chic decor and dainty interiors, City Lounge is a restaurant cum meeting space situated just opposite to London Blackfriars station. The selection of pastries offered by the place is to die for! Apart from this, the diverse menu features mouthwatering food delights and delicacies. Be it the French press or a choice of tea infusion, the place will surely amplify your day with all its intricacies.

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Places To Stay Near St. Paul's Cathedral

Here are some of the most notable options to stay near St. Paul's Cathedral.

1. Travelodge London City Central City Road -

The hotel features spacious rooms and premium accommodation choices for travellers. It is jam-packed with amenities such as free WiFi, custom made beddings, plus desks, flat-screen TV, tea and coffee maker. Be it a family getaway or a solo-trip; the dwellings are suitable for all types of visitors. The hotel also features a casual and relaxed restaurant-bar which offers a breakfast buffet. 

2. Club Quarters Hotel -

Featuring quaint and modern decor, the dwellings offered at the hotel are packed with an array of amenities such as smart TV, free WiFi and iPod docks. This hotel also features a lounge that offers free snacks and exemplary amenities such as French cuisine, Brasserie serving free breakfast, Laundry facilities and a 24-hour fitness centre. 

3. Leonardo Royal London St Paul's -

The hotel offers a myriad of plush accommodation choices equipped with superb amenities including free WiFi, minibars, flat-screen TV, iPod docks, kitchenettes, etc. The upgraded rooms provide easy access to the lounge. The penthouse suites are adorned with dainty interiors and offer a panoramic view of the St Paul's Cathedral.

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Medical Facilities Near St Paul’s Cathedral

You can find some of the best medical facilities near St Paul’s Cathedral.

1. London Bridge Hospital -

Hailed, as one of the largest private hospitals in the UK, London Bridge Hospital, is home for premium nursing care and clinical facilities.

2. St Bartholomew's Hospital -

The hospital was founded in 1123 and is currently situated in the City of London. Barts Health NHS Trust runs the hospital.

3. St. Thomas's Hospital -

Specialised services for medical ailments, including cancer, cardiac, kidney, women’s and orthopaedic care are provided by the hospital.

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Traveller's tips before visiting the Cathedral

Here are some of the tips that you must keep in mind while visiting the cathedral.

- Photography is forbidden inside the Cathedral. Make sure to keep your cameras away for a while and imprint the experience upon your heart.

- Dress modestly before entering the Cathedral.

- Try visiting the Cathedral during the initial opening hours so that you can enjoy the solemn and peaceful Cathedral in all its glory.

You can reach St Paul’s Cathedral via Bus, Train or Tube.

By bus:

If you are taking a bus, lines 63, 748, and 76 are closest to the Cathedral.

By train:

For Travellers boarding the train, THAMESLINK is the nearest mainline route to the Cathedral.

By Tube:

CENTRAL and CIRCLE are the closest lines via Tube to the Cathedral.

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