700 years old, home to poets and kings, parading itself proudly by the Houses of Parliament – it’s safe to say if you’ve seen much of London, or read about it, you’ll have heard of Westminster Abbey. But did you know that just a few blocks away sits the striking Westminster Cathedral? It may not be as old, but to my mind it is also stunning inside – and it boasts an incredible 360 degree view of London!
I vividly remember the first time I saw Westminster Cathedral. I was running through Victoria, not long after I had moved into the central area, turned a corner, and was gob-smacked at what I saw before me. I instantly had to know what this incredible building was. Its gorgeous curving lines and coloured bricks reminded me of the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, and my eyes were quickly drawn to its single tower. Would this offer a new panorama to add to my Top Viewpoints in London?
However many times I ran past it, or glimpsed the tower from the river or nearby St James’ Park, it actually took me over a year to come back to Westminster Cathedral ready to experience its full glory. And in return, London gave me an absolute stunner of a February day in which to do so! I ran my eyes over the mosaics of the facade, trying to drink it all in, before stepping inside to its cool embrace.
Building of the Cathedral was begun in 1895 and it was consecrated in 1906. One of the most beautiful features of the interior, apart from the feeling of space, are the many mosaics on the walls. I wandered the little chapels for quite some time, entranced by the gilt and craftsmanship.
But before long I felt the siren call of a genuine blue-sky day in London, and paid my £6 to ascend 64m above street level (in a speedy lift) and gaze over the city. Given its proximity to central London, this is definitely my new favourite viewpoint!
Game of Spot the London Icon, anyone?
Seriously – how good was this weather, and how awesome are these views? As the Cathedral is right in amongst the action, it’s easy to spend quite some time gazing in all directions and picking out landmarks. Although it did get a little chilly in the winter wind, as you have an open view over the city!
The Cathedral’s distinctive curves, looking south-west
Battersea Power Station in the distance
Looking west over Victoria
Looking north – that’s Buckingham Palace on the left past the curving roof
I love the incredible facades and different roof styles you can see from up high!
Gazing from one beautiful church to another – St Pauls!
I did visit on a weekday, but I can’t imagine that Westminster Cathedral gets mobbed even on weekends. As beautiful as it is inside, I loved it all the more for these amazing panoramas over London. It’s open until 6pm on the weekend – one to remember when the winter sunsets start rolling in again! For more information on visiting the Cathedral, click here.
Have you visited Westminster Cathedral? Had you heard of it before now?
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