Last Updated on 7 February, 2023
When you think of historic churches in London, St. Paul’s Cathedral or Westminster Abbey probably come to mind. But there’s another church that’s just as steeped in history and just as beautiful, albeit in a different way: St. Dunstan’s Church In The West.
Tucked away in the corner of London is St Dunstable church, a beautiful and historic building that is well worth a visit. This hidden gem is free to enter and has a fascinating history dating back over 900 years.
St. Dunstan’s Church was built in the early 12th century, making it one of the oldest churches in London. It’s located in the City of Westminster, near Trafalgar Square and Piccadilly Circus.
The church is named after Saint Dunstan, the Archbishop of Canterbury, from 959 to 988. He was known for his work in restoring monasteries and his skill as a blacksmith and goldsmith.
The exterior of the church looks plain, but the interior is stunning. The nave is adorned with beautiful stained glass windows, and a gorgeous wrought iron screen separates the nave from the choir. The church also has a magnificent organ that dates back to 1694.
The most striking feature of St Dunstable church is its Gothic Revival style. The building has seen multiple changes over the centuries, but the core of the original structure remains. In 1540, during the time of the Dissolution of the Monasteries, the church was closed and fell into disrepair.
It wasn’t until 1824 that restoration work began, led by famous architect Sir John Soane. This was Soane’s intention when he oversaw the restoration work in the early 19th century.
He wanted to create a building that would reflect the grandeur of medieval churches while also incorporating some of the latest design techniques of the time. The result is a stunning and unique building unlike any other in London.
Location: Where is St. Dunstan’s Church In The West?
St Dunstable church is located in Holborn, close to Chancery Lane Tube station. It’s surrounded by busy streets and office buildings, which makes it all the more surprising when you step inside and find yourself in a calm and peaceful oasis.
The best way to get to St Dunstable church is by Tube. It’s located in Zone 1, and the nearest station is Chancery Lane (Central line).
If you’re coming from central London, exit the station and turn left onto High Holborn.
A Quiet Spot In London’s Busy Fleet Street
If you’re looking for a location to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, then St Dunstable church is the perfect spot.
The atmospheric interior is lit by natural light streaming through stained glass windows, creating a tranquil atmosphere. It’s clear to see why this is such a popular place for visitors to take a moment to sit down and reflect.
A Free Attraction In London Not To Miss
Admission to St Dunstable church is free, so there’s no excuse not to add it to your list of must-see attractions in London. Whether you’re keen on history and architecture or simply looking for somewhere to relax, you’ll find something to love about this hidden gem.
Things To Do Near St. Dunstan’s Church In The West
- St Pauls Cathedral
- Tate Modern
- Covent Garden
- Somerset House And The Courtauld Gallery
- London Eye
- Leather Lane Market
- Trafalgar Square
