St Paul's Cathedral Hours | Best Time to Visit

Timings

St. Paul's Cathedral

The Cathedral is open from Monday to Saturday for sightseeing. The opening hours from Thursday to Tuesday (except Sunday) is 8:30am to 4:30pm. On Wednesday, the church opens late at 10am.

Jan 1 TO Dec 31 Timings Days (Jan 1 TO Dec 31)	TIMINGS	Last Admission
Monday	08:30–16:30	16:00
Tuesday	08:30–16:30	16:00
Wednesday	10:00–16:30	16:00
Thursday	08:30–16:30	16:00
Friday	08:30–16:30	16:00
Saturday (Today)	08:30–16:30	16:00
Sunday	Closed

Last entry: 4pm
Wednesday: The cathedral opens at 10am.
Sunday: Open for worship only.
Dome Galleries: 9:30am-4:15pm (Except on Wednesday)
Spend at least 2 hours at St Paul's Cathedral to make the most of your visit.
These timings may change or the cathedral may remain closed for sightseeing for special services or occasions.

Old St Paul’s Cathedral

Jan 1 TO Dec 31 Timings Days (Jan 1 TO Dec 31)	TIMINGS
Monday	08:30–16:30
Tuesday	08:30–16:30
Wednesday	10:00–16:30
Thursday	08:30–16:30
Friday	08:30–16:30
Saturday (Today)	08:30–16:30
Sunday	08:00–18:00

Best time to visit the St. Paul's Cathedral

Weekday vs Weekend

Weekday: Visiting St. Paul's Cathedral on weekdays, particularly Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays, is recommended to avoid weekend crowds. It allows for a more serene experience, offering quieter moments to appreciate the cathedral's beauty and history.

Weekend: Exploring St. Paul's Cathedral on weekends offers a vibrant view of London's skyline but can be crowded, leading to a hurried exploration. Despite the hustle-bustle, it promises a lively and energetic experience, adding to the cathedral's charm.

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Sun

Pleasant

Very Crowded

Peak season vs low season

Peak Season: Visiting St. Paul's Cathedral during the peak season from June to October presents a lively atmosphere with numerous events and special services. Despite potential crowds, this time offers a chance to witness the cathedral bustling with activity, showcasing its cultural vibrancy.
Low Season: Checking out St. Paul's Cathedral during the low season, from September to May, promises a tranquil experience with fewer crowds. It allows you to immerse yourself in the cathedral's architectural intricacies and historical significance without the hustle of peak times.

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Off Season

Moderate Season

Peak Season

How long should I spend at St Paul's Cathedral?

You should plan to spend two to three hours fully exploring St Paul's Cathedral, including the main cathedral area, the crypt, the dome, and the artwork. This timeframe allows for a comprehensive experience, allowing you to appreciate the architectural masterpiece, historical significance, and diverse art collection within the cathedral.

Frequently Asked Questions about St Paul's Cathedral hours

Are there any special opening hours during holidays?

Yes, the cathedral may have altered hours during holidays such as Christmas, Easter, and New Year’s. It’s recommended to check in advance for any special timings during these periods.

What happens if I arrive late for my timed entry?

If you arrive late, the staff will try to accommodate you depending on availability. However, to make the most of your visit, it’s best to arrive on time.

Can I attend a service outside of the regular sightseeing hours?

Yes, you can attend services, which are held at various times throughout the day. These are separate from sightseeing hours, and all are welcome to join the worship services.

What time should I arrive to ensure entry to St Paul’s Cathedral?

It’s advisable to arrive at least 15-30 minutes before your planned entry time, especially during peak tourist seasons, to allow time for ticket checks and security.

How does the weather affect the opening hours of St Paul’s Cathedral?

The Cathedral generally remains open regardless of the weather. However, access to the dome might be restricted during extreme weather conditions for safety reasons.

Can I enter the cathedral multiple times in one day with the same ticket?

No, tickets are for single entry only on the day of your visit. Re-entry is not permitted once you leave the premises.

Can I enter St Paul's Cathedral for free?

St Paul's Cathedral is free to visit for private prayers. On Sundays, the cathedral is open for extended hours till 6pm. However, the cathedral is open from Monday to Saturday to tourists.