The History
The current St. Paul’s Cathedral is actually the fourth to be built on the site - there has been a cathedral bearing St. Paul’s name in this location for more than 1,400 years. The current building was completed in the early 18th century, and quickly became a setting of significant national importance.
The cathedral has hosted numerous historic events, including the state funerals of Lord Nelson, Sir Winston Churchill and the Duke of Wellington, and the 1981 wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer.
The building’s rich history, central location and impressive architecture make it a must-see landmark for many visitors to London. There are plenty of wonderful viewpoints in London, but many would argue that the view from the top of St. Paul’s Cathedral beats them all!
The Dome & Whispering Gallery
Those with sufficient energy can climb the dome: 257 steps leading up to The Whispering Gallery, famously so named because a whisper against its walls is audible on the opposite side. Climb a further 271 steps to The Golden Gallery and, at 280ft, you will have incredible panoramic views of London.
Crypt & ‘Oculus’ film experience
Journey underground to the cathedral’s crypt to view the tombs and memorials of world-famous Britons, including Nelson and the Duke of Wellington. There you will also find the award winning ‘Oculus; an eye into St Paul’s’ exhibition located in the crypt. The first project of its kind in a cathedral, Oculus is a 270˚ film experience that brings 1400 years of history to life. Oculus takes visitors to Saxon London amidst the construction of the first St Paul’s in 604AD, through the buildings on the site that have fallen to fire and disrepair, before showing them the Great Fire of 1666 and the devastation of London during the Blitz when St Paul’s became a lasting symbol of strength, survival and hope.