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Southwark Cathedral

London, United Kingdom•4.7(4.2k)•Heritage Site, Museum

Explore a historic Anglican cathedral on the Thames riverbank offering free worship, world-class choral music, art exhibitions, and family-friendly facilities including a cafe and accessible gardens.

Southwark Cathedral is an iconic Anglican cathedral located on the south bank of the River Thames in the heart of Bankside, London. This historic place of worship welcomes families and visitors of all ages to experience its spiritual significance, architectural beauty, and cultural offerings. The cathedral hosts regular services including free Choral Evensong featuring world-class choral music, morning and midday prayers, and special events throughout the year. Visitors can explore the cathedral's rich history, view rotating art exhibitions, and learn about its heritage through guided tours and group visits. The venue offers comprehensive family amenities including the Southwark Cathedral Cafe for refreshments, an accessible churchyard with an herb garden, and facilities for pushchairs and young children. The cathedral is dog-friendly and provides accessibility information for visitors with mobility requirements. The cathedral's Learning Centre offers educational programmes for both adults and children, deepening knowledge and engagement with faith, history, and culture. With free entry and opening hours from 8:30am to 6pm daily, Southwark Cathedral serves as an oasis of peace and prayer suitable for families seeking cultural, historical, and spiritual experiences in central London.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Opening Hours

Monday: 09:00 – 18:00
Tuesday: 09:00 – 18:00
Wednesday: 09:00 – 18:00
Thursday: 09:00 – 18:00
Friday: 09:00 – 18:00
Saturday: 09:00 – 18:00
Sunday: 08:30 – 17:00

Venue Details

Venue Type

Indoor & Outdoor

Typical visit duration

All day

Booking

Walk-in

Recommended ages

0 months (newborn)+

What this place offers

ToiletsToilets
Public transportPublic transport nearby
Accessible toilets
Free WiFi
Baby changingBaby changing facilities
Food available
On-site parking
🐕Dog-friendly
Parking nearby
Pushchair friendlyPushchair friendly

☕ Food & Drink

Southwark Cathedral Cafe

On-site cafe offering light refreshments and beverages

Hours: Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm, Saturday 8am - 5pm, Sunday 9:30am - 4pm

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Google Reviews

4.7(4.2k reviews)
A
Abhinav Mathur

Abhinav Mathur

a month ago

Magnificent piece of architecture and history (much of which I now don't remember, since history isn't my strongest suit). It's located conveniently near the London Bridge tube station and the Borough Market, so it's very easy to be factored into plans. Visually stunning, quiet and serene, with free admission: I would definitely recommend a visit!

N
Neeru Das

Neeru Das

3 months ago

The Southwark Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral and Collegiate Church of St Saviour and St Mary Overie. It is located in the Bankside area of London, England, situated on the south bank of the River Thames near London Bridge. It is immediately adjacent to the popular Borough Market. The closest transportation hubs are the London Bridge railway and Tube stations, which are about a 4 / 5 minute walk away. Established on a site with over 1,000 years of Christian worship, but the church was not raised to cathedral status, till the creation of the diocese of Southwark was made in 1905. Between 1106 and 1538, it was the church of an Augustinian priory, dedicated in honour of the Virgin Mary. Following the dissolution of the monasteries, it became a parish church, with a dedication to the Holy Saviour. The church was in the diocese of Winchester earlier till 1877, when the parish of St Saviour's, along with other South London parishes, was transferred to the Diocese of Rochester. The present building retains the basic form of the Gothic structure built between 1220 and 1420, although the nave is a late 19thC reconstruction. The cathedral is now used by London South Bank University for it's 'Annual honorary degree ceremony', by Regent's College for it's 'Graduation ceremonies', and by King's College London for it's 'Medical and dental degree ceremonies'. The cathedral also hosts the London Nautical School's annual Christmas Carol Service. Interesting, historic and a quietly laid back building I must say. Saw it during 2024.

D
Dee Taylor

Dee Taylor

3 months ago

Beautiful venue, we attended the Candle Light Tribute to Adele show and it was amazing! They allow you to record towards the end of the show which is nice, the orchestra played beautifully and made a wonderful evening to finish off my partners birthday celebrations. Thank you!

L
loraine shirao

loraine shirao

4 months ago

First candle 🕯️ light concert 🎶 of many 🥰 As a first timer finding the cathedral entrance was the hard bit from out.The rest was flawless Staff were quite professional. I was to take photos with the performers but didn’t get a chance to-came in like 20minutes to time -I figured I was late when they didn’t tell me 🤦‍♀️ Adele song on instrumental was very beautiful-I was moved by the songs esp the Hello /sky fall .I wished my family could hear this, with especially my siblings.So many emotions run as I listened along.The candle light on the dim environment inter-grated with sound was magical.The musicians/instrumentalist sounded intentional and loyal to the key notes.8/10 Overall experience worth the money.

A
Andrew Thomas

Andrew Thomas

6 months ago

Magnificent Gothic church which became a cathedral in 1905, with a storied history that can be traced back to the 11th century. Southwark Cathedral began life as a minster, and in 1106 became an Augustinian priory, at which point it gained a dedication to St Mary. It gained the name "St Mary Overie", the latter part being referencing its outlook over the river. The church of St Mary was overseen by the Diocese of Winchester, and received significant additions instigated by the Bishops of Winchester. Following the dissolution of the monasteries, the church fell under the control of King Henry VIII, when it became St Saviour's. It remained under royal control until 1611, and in the following centuries served the local community. It eventually fell into disrepair, and was extensively restored in the 19th century, resulting in the fine building seen today. The cathedral is notable for housing the tombs of 15th century court poet John Gower and Edmond Shakespeare (brother of William), amongst many others. It has historically had a strong connection to those in theatre thanks to its close proximity to Shakespeare's Globe. The interior is light and airy, characterised by soaring Gothic arches. An ornate reredos, distinctive stained glass windows and a highly decorated font cover are amongst features to look out for while visiting. You may also see the cathedral cat. Preserved sections of earlier building work displayed behind glass were interesting to see from an archaeological standpoint. The fine cathedral may not be London's most famous, but is fully deserving of a visit.

Reviews last updated: 29 September 2026

Events at Southwark Cathedral

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This venue was last updated on 29 September 2026

Frequently asked questions about Southwark Cathedral

Is Southwark Cathedral free to visit?

Entry to Southwark Cathedral is completely free — there are no admission charges, making it a great no-cost option for a family day out.

What ages is Southwark Cathedral suitable for?

Southwark Cathedral is suitable for visitors of all ages, from babies through to adults.

Is Southwark Cathedral dog-friendly?

Yes, dogs are welcome at Southwark Cathedral.

Is there parking at Southwark Cathedral?

Southwark Cathedral doesn't have on-site parking, but parking is available nearby.

Is there food at Southwark Cathedral?

Yes — Southwark Cathedral Cafe is on site at Southwark Cathedral. On-site cafe offering light refreshments and beverages

Is Southwark Cathedral pushchair-friendly?

Yes, Southwark Cathedral is pushchair, pram and buggy friendly — most areas are step-free so you can navigate easily with little ones in tow.

How long should we plan to spend at Southwark Cathedral?

Southwark Cathedral is a full-day experience — plan accordingly.

How do I get to Southwark Cathedral by public transport?

Southwark Cathedral is well-served by public transport.
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