The Whispering Gallery's acoustics allow a whisper spoken against one wall to be heard clearly at the opposite side, over 30 meters away.
Sir Christopher Wren's original design was rejected by King Charles II, leading to the creation of the 'Great Model' which was later built in secret.
The cross and ball atop the dome were replaced in the 1820s; the original 17th-century copper ball was discarded.
During the Blitz, a dedicated 'St. Paul's Watch' of volunteers protected the building from incendiary bombs.
The cathedral's Great West Door is only opened for specific ceremonial occasions.
The bell, 'Great Paul', cast in 1881, is the largest bell in Britain, weighing over 16 tons.
The intricate geometric staircase, known as the Dean's Stair, was used as a filming location for the Harry Potter series.
The mosaic decorations in the quire were completed by Sir William Richmond in the late 19th century.
The Cathedral's library occupies a room that was originally intended as a Bishop's drawing room.
St. Paul's Cathedral is an 17th-century Anglican cathedral designed by Sir Christopher Wren following the Great Fire of London. Its defining feature is the iconic dome, which remains one of the largest in the world at 111 meters in height. The structure is built primarily of Portland stone in the English Baroque style. The interior contains a complex of three galleries: the Whispering Gallery, the Stone Gallery, and the Golden Gallery. The crypt houses the tombs of notable figures, including Admiral Lord Nelson and the Duke of Wellington. The cathedral functions as the seat of the Bishop of London and hosts state ceremonial events. The current structure is the fifth cathedral to stand on this site since 604 AD. Extensive conservation work has been conducted throughout the early 21st century to maintain its structural integrity.
The view from the southern end of the Millennium Bridge provides the most symmetrical frame of the western facade.
Climb to the Golden Gallery for the most expansive panoramic views of the London skyline.
Visit the crypt to view the tombs of British military leaders and the memorial to the cathedral's architect.
Listen for the daily choral evensong, which provides an opportunity to hear the cathedral's acoustics in a musical context.
Avoid visiting on Sundays for tourism, as the cathedral is restricted to worshipers only and sightseeing is suspended.
Closed to sightseeing tourists on Sundays. Occasional closures may occur for state events or private services.
Modest dress is required; shoulders and knees should be covered. Refrain from photography during active worship services.
