Christopher Wren & City Churches Walking Tour

This popular walking tour explores the remarkable City Churches of London, focusing on the architectural genius of Sir Christopher Wren. Available in 3, 4, or 5-hour options, I can customise the route to your interests. Perhaps you're an art enthusiast and want to see Damien Hirst's work at Great St. Bartholomew's, or a history buff eager to learn about the London "Cockney" at St. Mary-le-Bow. As an added bonus we'll also visit the Temple of Mithras—a free-to-enter interactive historical recreation of a “Roman Temple for soldiers”.

In the 17th century, there were 107 churches within the 'Square Mile' of London. 86 of these were destroyed in the Great Fire of London and 51 were subsequently rebuilt. The Blitz of World War II destroyed many more, and some were not rebuilt. Today, 23 churches remain, along with 4 towers and partial ruins of two churches that now serve as places of contemplation.

I’m Lee Cooper. For years, I navigated these streets as a London Black Cab driver, but today my passion lies in the "Knowledge" of a different kind. As a proud member and volunteer for the Friends of the City Churches (FCC), I help keep these historic doors open to the world. Having spent countless hours "watching" these landmarks, I’ve moved beyond the guidebooks to find the hidden layers of their history. I love sharing these overlooked treasures and the vibrant stories tucked away within their ancient stone walls.

Naturally, this tour will include a visit to St. Paul's Cathedral, Wren's masterpiece and a cornerstone of London's Baroque architecture. We'll also explore other captivating sites such as:

• St. Bride's Church: Explore this iconic church, long associated with journalists and newspapers, and admire its elegant Wren-designed architecture.
• St Stephen Walbrook: Discover the fascinating history of the first Samaritans branch, which operated from a crypt beneath this church.
• Holy Sepulchre London: Located across from the Old Bailey, this church is famously mentioned in the nursery rhyme "Oranges and Lemons." as "the Bells of Old Bailey".

• St Martin, Ludgate: Designed by Wren, this church boasts a fascinating inscription claiming that Cadwallo, King of the Britons, is buried within its grounds.
• St Botolph's Aldgate: Delve into the history of this church, with records dating back to 1115.

• St. Dunstan-in-the-West: Marvel at the unique façade of this Fleet Street church, featuring a chiming clock with intriguing giant figures.
• St Olaves: Witness the resilience of this church, whose bells were melted during the war and later recast using the original foundry.
• All Hallows Aldgate: Another popular destination with its own unique charm.

This is just a glimpse of the many fascinating churches we can explore on this tour. All churches are wheelchair accessible, and most are open from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Please let me know if you have any specific churches you'd like to visit, and I'll gladly check their opening times for you.