Highlight • Religious Site
St James Garlickhythe Church
Hiking
4.4
(34)
Running
5.0
(1)
Cycling
5.0
(1)
St James Garlickhythe Church is a historic Church of England parish church nestled in the heart of the City of London, specifically on Garlick Hill within the Vintry ward. Standing at an elevation of 66 metres, this remarkable site has been a place of worship since the 12th century. Famously nicknamed "Wren's Lantern" due to its abundance of windows and natural light, the current structure was rebuilt by Sir Christopher Wren's office after the Great Fire of London in 1666,…
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September 21, 2022
Hiking
•
November 14, 2018
Hiking
Recorded since the 12th century, the church was destroyed in the Great Fire of London in 1666 and rebuilt by the office of Sir Christopher Wren. It is also the official church of eleven City livery companies.
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/St_James_Garlickhythe
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Nearby routes
Best routes near St James Garlickhythe Church
5.0
(1)
309
hikers
5.33km
01:23
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(24)
161
hikers
22.2km
05:41
90m
90m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
189
hikers
8.31km
02:11
70m
70m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 70 m
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Max wind speed: 9.0 km/h
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the typical visiting hours for St James Garlickhythe Church?
St James Garlickhythe Church is generally open to visitors on weekdays during business hours. However, as an active parish church, opening times can vary for services, events, or private functions. It's always a good idea to check their official website or contact the church directly for the most current visiting schedule before planning your trip.
Is there an entry fee to visit St James Garlickhythe Church?
No, there is typically no entry fee to visit St James Garlickhythe Church. As a Church of England parish church, it welcomes visitors for prayer, reflection, and to admire its historical and architectural significance free of charge.
What public transport options are available to reach St James Garlickhythe Church?
The church is very well connected by public transport. The closest London Underground stations are Mansion House (District and Circle lines) and Cannon Street (District and Circle lines, and National Rail services), both within a short walking distance. Numerous bus routes also serve the immediate area, making it easily accessible from various parts of London.
Are there any parking facilities near St James Garlickhythe Church?
Parking directly at St James Garlickhythe Church is extremely limited, as it's located in the heart of the City of London. On-street parking is scarce and often restricted. Visitors are strongly encouraged to use public transport. There are some commercial car parks in the wider City area, but these can be expensive and a fair walk from the church.
What kind of walking routes can I find near St James Garlickhythe Church?
The area around St James Garlickhythe Church offers a wealth of historical and scenic walking routes. You can easily explore the narrow streets of the City of London, discovering hidden courtyards, other Wren churches, and ancient Roman ruins. The church's proximity to the River Thames also allows for pleasant strolls along the Thames Path, offering views of iconic landmarks like Shakespeare's Globe and Tate Modern. Many self-guided historical tours of the City pass by or include the church.
Is St James Garlickhythe Church accessible for visitors with mobility challenges or wheelchairs?
While the immediate area around the church in the City of London is generally flat, accessibility within historic buildings like St James Garlickhythe can sometimes be challenging. We recommend contacting the church directly before your visit to inquire about specific accessibility features, such as ramp access or facilities for visitors with mobility challenges, to ensure a comfortable experience.
Are there any family-friendly activities or points of interest near St James Garlickhythe Church?
Absolutely! Beyond the church's own historical intrigue, the surrounding City of London offers many family-friendly attractions. You can combine a visit with a walk along the Thames Path, explore the Museum of London, or visit the Tower of London, all within reasonable distance. Many green spaces and public squares are also nearby for children to enjoy.
Can I get my Camino de Santiago pilgrim passport stamped at St James Garlickhythe Church?
Yes, St James Garlickhythe Church is the City of London's pilgrimage church dedicated to St James the Great. Pilgrims undertaking the Camino de Santiago can indeed get their pilgrim passport (credencial) stamped here, marking a significant stop on their journey.
What makes St James Garlickhythe Church known as 'Wren's Lantern'?
The church earned its nickname 'Wren's Lantern' due to its distinctive architectural design by Sir Christopher Wren's office. It features a profusion of windows that allow an exceptional amount of natural light to flood the interior, creating a bright and airy atmosphere, quite unique for a church of its era.
Are there cafes or pubs nearby for refreshments after visiting the church?
Given its central location in the City of London, there are numerous cafes, pubs, and restaurants within a very short walk of St James Garlickhythe Church. You'll find a wide range of options, from traditional English pubs to modern coffee shops, perfect for a refreshment break or a meal.
What is the story behind 'Jimmy Garlick'?
'Jimmy Garlick' refers to a mummified body discovered in the church's vaults in the 19th century. Once a public curiosity, this intriguing historical artifact is now stored out of public view, adding a unique and somewhat mysterious tale to the church's long history.