Hotels near St Paul's Cathedral

Sir Christopher Wren's masterpiece has dominated the London skyline since its completion in 1710, and its enormous dome remains one of the most recognisable silhouettes in the city. The interior is breathtaking - climb 259 steps to the Whispering Gallery, where a whisper against one wall can be heard clearly on the opposite side 34 metres away, then continue up 119 more steps to the Stone Gallery for panoramic outdoor views.

The crypt houses the tombs of the Duke of Wellington and Admiral Lord Nelson, along with Wren himself beneath the modest epitaph 'Reader, if you seek his monument, look around you'. The cathedral played a central role in national events from the funeral of Winston Churchill to the wedding of Charles and Diana. Adult admission is around £23/~€27 and includes a multimedia guide.

Pro Tip: The climb to the Golden Gallery at the very top (528 steps total) is steep and narrow but rewards you with the best panoramic view in London - arguably better than the Shard or London Eye because you see those landmarks in your panorama.