There may be affiliate links throughout the content you're about to read. When you purchase from my links, I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you) which helps me provide even more awesome content for you :)
Since we talked about St Dunstan in the East a few weeks ago, we thought the day was perfect to tell you about the most beautiful churches in London, and gorgeous temples.
Have you ever wandered around London not knowing exactly what to do?
You see gorgeous buildings and you feel eager to visit them, but are afraid they’re too expensive, or you don’t know what they are.
In this guide, you’ll find one of the most secret churches in London, one that hosts a cafe, along with secret temples and overall, incredible architecture.
Let’s get on, then!
These Are the Most Beautiful Churches in London – And Incredible Temples
It is true that some of the best free things to do in London are usually related to beautiful gardens and parks and free museums.
We don’t really ever think of visiting beautiful churches in London because, let’s face it, shops on Oxford Street are better advertised than religious spaces!
From stunning Gothic cathedrals to the most aesthetic chapels, here you have a list of the most beautiful churches and temples in London – put on comfy shoes, and come along!
Most Beautiful Churches in London: Westminster Abbey
It would only make sense to start with one of the best.
Westminster Abbey is one of the most significant landmarks in London, and located close to Embankment, Big Ben, Hyde Park and Victoria.
It was officially titled the Collegiate Church of Saint Peter at Westminster and is famous for its architecture, history and role in significant events throughout the years.
While Westminster Abbey’s history dates back to the 10th century, the current Gothic structure we see was largely constructed somewhere between the 13th and the 16th centuries.
One of the most beautiful churches in London with stunning stone carvings, arches, and stained glass windows.
The likes of Charles Dickens and William Shakespeare are buried inside Westminster Abbey, and with its strong relationship with the British Monarchy, it makes for a must-visit on your London bucket list!
Read: The Best Things to Do in London Bridge
Most Beautiful Churches in London and Temples: The Shree Sanatan Hindu Mandir, Wembley
Shree Sanatan Hindu Mandir is located in Wembley, North West London and is one of the most beautiful temples in London.
Look at this architecture!
This place is a significant religious and cultural centre for the Hindu community in the UK, and one of the most detailed from the outside and the inside.
A little historical fact here: the Shree Sanatan Hindu Mandir is one of the largest Hindu temples in Europe, which automatically makes it an important place to visit in London.
Its architecture is inspired by its roots where tradition and design offer beautiful colorful decorations, ornate domes, and intricate carvings.
Many cultural events, workshops, lectures and festivals take place at the temple, an important part of the community that offers spiritual support to all ages and a sense of belonging.
Read: The Best Things to Do in London When It Rains
Church Ruins in London: St Dunstan in the East
Ah, St. Dunstan in the East, my absolute favourite church in all of Londinium – I mean London!
I have written about the Roman church ruins in London before, and let me tell you, this is a picturesque ancient beauty.
St. Dunstan in the East was originally built in the 12th century as a parish church.
It was dedicated and named after the medieval saint who held an important figure of worship in English History, and who served as an Archbishop of Canterbury.
The church is famous for its tragic history during the Great Fire of London in 1666, when the building got severely damaged. Even though it was repaired, it ended up falling into disrepair over the years.
A sad story for a stunning Gothic building with pointed arches and intricate details, however, the magic remained and even today you can see the passage of time itself through its peaceful oasis of lush greenery as a background.
The remnants of the church’s windows, arches, walls and ceiling combined with its fauna allow you to take a glimpse into London’s past – utterly magical.
Mid-20th Century, the decision was made not to fully restore this church, and preserve its ruins, therefore the place became a public garden, transformed into a perfect spot for meditation and relaxation.
This is one of the best free things to do in London, and it’s certainly one of the most instagrammable churches in the English capital, so grab that camera of yours and come visit St Dunstan in the East ASAP!
Read: The Best Things to Do in Camden Town
Places to Visit in London: Host Cafe, St Mary Aldermary
St Mary Adermary Church is both one of the most beautiful churches in London and offers one of the most instagrammable cafes in the city.
Surprised?
This place was founded in the 11th Century and rebuilt in the 17th century, after being destroyed in the Blitz.
This Historic Anglican Church is known for its stunning Gothic architecture and rich history.
Today people can enjoy its unique details (especially those stunning stained glass windows!) to learn about the history of the place whilst enjoying a heavenly cup of Joe at Host Cafe.
One of the oldest churches in London, located near St. Paul’s Cathedral, St Mary Aldermary is very much a hidden gem – you wouldn’t know about it if you walked past!
The church is an active place of worship and it hosts ceremonies, religious services and events, and the coffee shop, really, is a great place to relax, reflect, or even work on your laptop!
Read: The Best Free Rooftops in London
Most Beautiful Churches in London: St Paul’s Cathedral
St. Paul’s Cathedral is one of the most iconic landmarks and definitely should be part of your list of places to visit in London.
Like Westminster Abbey, the visit is not free, but you’ll learn some more about England’s rich history and culture and will also be able to tick off one of the best Harry Potter things to do in London!
Here, you will be able to take a glimpse and recognize the spiral staircase in Hogwarts that leads to Professor Trelawney’s Divination class in the third movie.
St Paul’s used to be the world’s tallest structure until 1311, when it was surpassed by Lincoln Cathedral, Lincoln.
The place was designed and built by Sir Christopher Wren between 1675 – 1710 after the previous cathedral was destroyed in the Great Fire of London in 1666.
St Paul’s Cathedral is distinctively famous for its magnificent dome, which is one of the largest domes in the world, and interestingly inspired by the architecture of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.
My suggestion is to visit the cathedral and make sure you have some time to climb the Dome – it will offer you some life-changing panoramic views all over the city!
Expect lines, given this is one of the iconic landmarks in London.
Read: The Best Free Views in London
Most Beautiful Churches in London: St Michael and All Angels, Turnham Green
St. Michael and All Angels Church is located in Turnham Green and it’s one of the most colorful places to visit in London, for real!
Think of a worship place with beautiful shades of pink and green, and a church with a significant role in the community and a rich architectural heritage.
The church was built in the 19th century and first consecrated in 1877.
It was built in the Gothic Revival architectural style, with its intricate stone carvings, pointed arches and all, but we have to admit their churchyard is where the magic absolutely come to life.
You see this beautiful gravestone path with peaceful greenery that provides a great spot for reflection, and it can only bring you back in time!
Concerts, recitals and other musical events often take place at the St. Michael and All Angels church.
If you happen to be nearby, make sure to give both the church, neighborhood cafes and parks a try!
Read: The Most Unusual Places to Visit in London
Most Beautiful Churches in London and Temples: Sri Murugan Temple
The Sri Murugan Temple (East Ham Murugan Temple), is one of the best places to visit in London for many different reasons.
Located in East Ham, it is dedicated to Lord Murugan, a Hindy deity who is represented as the God of War, Wisdom and Victory in Tamil culture and Hinduism.
This deity is also known by different names such as Kartikeya, Subramanya, and Skanda.
The temple in London hosts religious events such as rituals, festivals and daily prayers dedicated to Lord Murugan.
When it comes to the building itself, this place blooms with traditional architecture from the South Indian style.
Think color, carvings and sculptures of various Hindu deities and mythological scenes all around in a place for everyone, even people who are just interested in learning about Hinduism and experiencing their festivals/events.
Read: The Best Shops for Cheap Clothes in London
Most Beautiful Churches in London and Temples: Wat Buddhapadipa Temple
If you happen to be around Wimbledon, I suggest you visit one of the best temples in London – we’re talking here about the well-established Wat Buddahpadipa temple.
The place is famous for its architectural design and inspiring surroundings, and was founded in 1965 by the Royal Thai Embassy in London and the Thai community in the UK.
The construction of the Wat Buddahpadipa temple marked an important step for Buddhism and Thai culture in England, and is recognized for its traditional design.
It features ornate carvings, traditional decorations and Thai-style buildings which replicate the beauty and serenity of Thai temples.
One of my favorite things at the temple is the beautiful gardens and ponds with their unique walking paths.
It’s peaceful, and it creates a comforting, meditative atmosphere all around you which is often much needed in London.
Read: The Most Secret Beaches in London
Most Beautiful Churches in London: St Martin-in-the-Fields Church
St. Martin-in-the-Fields is located at the northeast corner of Trafalgar Square, in the heart of the city, close to Leicester Square and Covent Garden.
Its history dates back to the 18th century when the church was completed in a gorgeous Neoclassical design.
The portico and its columns is one of the highlights of the church, and was designed by famous architect James Gibbs.
St. Martin-in-the-Fields is also famous for its iconic location in the centre of London, which makes a central point for gatherings and events.
Events such as concerts and recitals take place on the church grounds, and if you’re ever looking for hidden cafes in London, the Cafe in the Crypt is one of the best – undoubtedly.
Read: The Best Cheap Day Trips From London
Most Beautiful Churches in London and Temples: Temple Of Mithras
The temple of Mithras (also known as the London Mithrareum) is an archaeological museum located in the heart of the city.
This is nonetheless one of the most significant Roman discoveries in London and you will be lucky if you get to peek into its history.
The temple was discovered during the construction of a new office building in the early 50s, dedicated to the god Mithras and is believed to have been in use during the 3rd century AD.
The remains of the Mithrareum, which was in fact a subterranean temple where Mithraic rituals and ceremonies were conducted, are featured at the temple.
Located at Bloomberg’s European headquarters, you will find the cultural hub that showcases the ancient temple, where a selection of incredible Roman artifacts was found during recent excavations.
A rich historical trip to the past where you will get to discover more about not just London, but Roman history itself!
Read: The Best Hidden Gems in London
These Are the Most Beautiful Churches in London – And Incredible Temples
There you have them, the most beautiful churches and temples in London you will want to visit and revisit!
Religious spaces are a place where you can really be yourself, learn, and meditate.
There are some really gorgeous Gothic churches in London which are worth a visit, and these places’ architecture is always mind blowing!
Until next time!
Other London Posts
- The Most Secret Places to Visit in London
- Why Are There Colorful Streets in London?
- The Best Hidden Gems in Oxford St
- The Most Colorful Streets in Camden
- The Most Colorful Places in London
- The Most Colorful Streets in Notting Hill
- The Best Photo Spots in London
- Harry Potter Locations in London
- Chalcot Square Primrose Hill – Colorful London Spot
- The Cutest Pink Places in London
- The Most Gorgeous Palaces in London
- The Prettiest Mews in London
- The Prettiest Streets in London
- The Prettiest Neighborhoods in London
- The Poshest Areas in London
- The Best Places to See Autumn Colors in London
- A Few Pointers to Move to London
Other London Shopping Posts
- The Best Candle Shops in London
- The Best Budget Shops in London
- The Most Beautiful Bookshops in London
- The Best Makeup Stores in London
- The Best Second Hand Bookshops in London
- The Best Shopping Centers in London
- The Best TK Maxx in London
- The Best Shops for Cheap Makeup in London
- The Best Charity Shops in London
- The Best Charity Shops in Bethnal Green
- The Best Charity Shops in Camden Town
- The Best Charity Shops in Chelsea
- The Best Charity Shops in Kentish Town
- The Best Charity Shops in Muswell Hill
- The Best Charity Shops in North Finchley
- Where To Buy Cheap Yankee Candles
Other London Food Posts
- The Best Vegan Doughnuts in London
- The Best Coffee Shops in Shoreditch
- The Best Coffee Shops in Brixton
- The Best Halal Thai Food in London
- The Best Halal Chinese Food in London
- The Best Halal Italian Food in London
- The Best Halal Indian Food in London
- The Best Halal Steak in London
- The Best Halal Burgers in London
- The Best Halal Pho in London
- The Best Pho in London
- The Best Halal Restaurants in Mayfair
- The Best Halal Restaurants in Covent Garden
- The Best Halal Breakfast in London
- The Best Halal Brunch in London
- The Best Halal Cafes in London
- The Most Instagrammable Restaurants in London
Other Travel Posts
- The Cutest Pink Places in the World
- The Most Colorful Cities in the World
- The Most Colorful Cities in Europe
- The Best Digital Nomad Cities in Europe
- The Best Hidden Gems in Rome
- The Most Magical Gardens in Rome
- The Best Hidden Gems in Barcelona
- The Most Instagrammable Places in Rome
- The Most Instagrammable Places in Paris
- The Most Instagrammable Places in NYC
- The Most Instagrammable Places in Edinburgh
- The Most Instagrammable Places in Istanbul
- The Most Instagrammable Places in Lisbon
- The Most Instagrammable Cafes in Paris
- The Most Instagrammable Cafes in Rome
- The Most Instagrammable Cafes in NYC
- The Most Instagrammable Cafes in Edinburgh
- The Most Instagrammable Cafes in Istanbul
- The Most Instagrammable Cafes in Dubai
- The Prettiest Neighborhoods in Rome
- The Prettiest Neighborhoods in Paris