St. Mary le Strand

St. Mary le Strand is a striking Anglican church located on the Strand in central London, near Trafalgar Square and the Royal Courts of Justice. Designed by James Gibbs and completed in 1723, it is one of the few Baroque churches in London, featuring a distinctive white stone exterior with ornate carvings and a tall steeple. The interior is equally impressive, with a beautifully painted ceiling, wooden pews, and a grand altar. The church is still an active place of worship, hosting regular services, concerts, and community events. Its location on a traffic island gives it a unique setting, surrounded by the bustle of the city yet offering a peaceful retreat. Visitors often admire its architecture and the serene atmosphere inside.

Don't miss

• Admire the Baroque architecture by James Gibbs
• See the ornate interior with its painted ceiling and wooden pews
• Attend a service or concert to experience the acoustics
• Visit the churchyard, a quiet spot in the heart of London
• Photograph the exterior, often called 'the wedding cake' for its white stone

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit St. Mary le Strand

Cheapest way inLondon: Landmarks Walking Tour4.8★ · 264 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$22 per personSee dates →Most bookedWestminster to Greenwich Sightseeing Thames Cruise in London4.6★ · 3,227 travelers~1 hourFree cancellationFrom$23 per personSee dates →Private & flexibleTransfers between Southampton and London via famous attractions5★ · 12 travelers2–9 hoursFree cancellationFrom$177 per personSee dates →

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Know before you go

• Photography is allowed inside, but avoid using flash during services.
• Be respectful of worshippers; the church is an active place of worship.
• Check the website for concert schedules; the acoustics are excellent.
• Nearby cafes on the Strand offer refreshments before or after your visit.

A bit of history

St. Mary le Strand was built between 1714 and 1723 as part of a commission to build 50 new churches in London. It was designed by James Gibbs, a prominent architect of the time, and is considered a masterpiece of English Baroque architecture. The church has survived wars and urban development, remaining a landmark on the Strand.