Street view of London Covent Garden with people, shops and market stalls

St Paul'S Church, Covent Garden

St Paul’s Church Covent Garden, London: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

St Paul’s Church, Covent Garden—affectionately known as “The Actors’ Church”—is an architectural and cultural gem situated in the vibrant heart of London’s Covent Garden. Designed by Inigo Jones and completed in 1633, it is celebrated as the first entirely new church built in London after the Reformation and is widely recognized for its elegant Palladian style (Wikipedia). The church’s deep-rooted connection to the theatre community and its ongoing role as a center for worship, performance, and community engagement make it a must-visit for anyone interested in London’s rich tapestry of history and the arts (Actors’ Church).

Whether you are a theatre enthusiast, history buff, cultural traveler, or someone seeking a moment of tranquility amid the bustle of the West End, this guide details everything you need to plan your visit—including up-to-date information on visiting hours, tickets for special events, accessibility, nearby attractions, and the church’s enduring historical and cultural significance.

Roll of Honour at St Paul's Church, Covent Garden, London

St Paul's Church in Covent Garden exterior view during daytime

Location and Accessibility

St Paul’s Church is located at Bedford Street, London WC2E 9ED, with the main entrance on Bedford Street and additional access points via the Covent Garden Piazza, King Street, and Henrietta Street (Actors’ Church official site). The church is easily accessible by public transport:

Underground: Covent Garden (Piccadilly Line), Leicester Square (Northern and Piccadilly Lines), and Charing Cross (Bakerloo and Northern Lines, plus National Rail) are all within a short walk.
[Bus: Numerous routes serve the area, including 3, 6, 9, 11, 12, 13, 15, 23, 24, 29, 53, 87, 88, 91, 139, 159, 176, and 453 (Actors’ Church visitor info).](#bus:-numerous-routes-serve-the-area,-including-3,-6,-9,-11,-12,-13,-15,-23,-24,-29,-53,-87,-88,-91,-139,-159,-176,-and-453-(actors’-church-visitor-info).)
Parking: Limited and costly; public transport is recommended.

The church offers step-free access via Bedford Street and Henrietta Street, with ramps inside to ensure accessibility for wheelchair users.

Visiting Hours and Admission

General Visiting Hours:
Monday to Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday: Opening times may vary; check the official website for updates.
Admission:
Entry to the church and gardens is free. Donations are encouraged to support preservation and community initiatives.
Guided Tours:
Periodically available and can be booked in advance. Special tours offer insights into the church’s architecture, history, and theatrical connections.

Worship and Regular Services

St Paul’s remains an active parish church, offering:

Sunday Eucharist at 11:00 AM (also streamed live on YouTube)
Sung Evensong on the second Sunday of each month at 4:00 PM
Wednesday lunchtime Eucharist at 1:10 PM
(Actors’ Church services)

All are welcome to attend services, regardless of faith or background.

Events and Performances

Theatre in the Garden

A highlight of the church’s annual calendar is the summer “Theatre in the Garden” season, transforming the gardens into an open-air stage for acclaimed productions. The 2025 season features Shakespearean classics and family-friendly shows such as A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Macbeth, and The Tale of Jemima Puddle-Duck. Performances run from July to September, with tickets required and available for advance purchase online (West End Theatre).

Concerts and Community Events

St Paul’s hosts over 400 events annually, including classical concerts, choral performances, open-air theatre, immersive drama, and seasonal highlights like Christmas carols and the Actors’ Church Fair (Actors’ Church events). The church is also home to memorial services and dedications honoring figures from the performing arts.

Theatrical and Cultural Heritage

St Paul’s is recognized as the spiritual home of London’s theatre community. The church interior features memorial plaques to luminaries such as Noël Coward, Vivien Leigh, Charlie Chaplin, and Ivor Novello (London Firebird Orchestra). Its association with the performing arts dates back to the Restoration period, with the first recorded performance of “Punch and Judy” taking place in the churchyard in 1662—a tradition still celebrated today (Linda on the Run).

The church remains a hub for artistic events, community gatherings, and cultural exchange, fostering a living legacy that honors both individual achievement and the collective spirit of the arts (London Anglican).

Gardens and Setting

Despite its central location, St Paul’s offers a tranquil, green oasis. The award-winning gardens provide a peaceful retreat from Covent Garden’s lively piazza, with benches shaded by mature trees and vibrant seasonal plantings (London Kensington Guide). The gardens and churchyard are open to the public during visiting hours.

Visitor Tips

Check the Official Website: For the latest updates on visiting hours, event schedules, and service times (Actors’ Church).
Book Tickets in Advance: Especially for ticketed events like Theatre in the Garden (West End Theatre).
Photography: Allowed, except during services and performances.
Accessibility: Wheelchair access is provided; contact the church for specific needs (Actors’ Church visitor info).
Quiet Times: Visit on weekday mornings or late afternoons to avoid crowds.
Nearby Amenities: Cafes, restaurants, and shops abound in Covent Garden; public toilets are in the piazza.

Nearby Attractions

Covent Garden Piazza and Market: Historic market, boutiques, daily street performances (secretldn.com).
Royal Opera House: World-renowned for opera and ballet; guided tours available (visitinglondon.uk).
London Transport Museum: Family-friendly, interactive displays on London’s transport history.
Neal’s Yard: Colorful courtyard with organic cafes and independent shops.
Annual Covent Garden May Fayre & Puppet Festival: Celebrates the first Punch and Judy show; free and family-friendly (Covent Garden Area Trust).
Nearby Churches: St Martin-in-the-Fields and St Mary le Strand, both within walking distance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are St Paul’s Church Covent Garden visiting hours?
A: Daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (check for holiday or event changes).

Q: Is there an admission fee?
A: Admission is free; donations are welcomed.

Q: How do I book tickets for Theatre in the Garden?
A: Purchase tickets online in advance via the official event pages.

Q: Is the church wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, via Bedford Street and Henrietta Street. Contact the church for assistance.

Q: Can I take photographs inside the church?
A: Generally permitted, except during services and performances.

Visual Recommendations

Summary and Encouragement to Explore

St Paul’s Church, Covent Garden, is a living testament to London’s architectural innovation, theatrical tradition, and community vitality. Free admission, accessible facilities, and a dynamic calendar of performances ensure a rewarding experience. Whether you’re attending a service, enjoying the tranquil gardens, or taking in a world-class performance, the church invites all to participate in its vibrant legacy (Wikipedia; Actors’ Church). Its proximity to other major London attractions makes it an essential stop for visitors exploring the city’s cultural heart.

Call to Action

For the latest updates, guided tour bookings, and event tickets, visit the Actors’ Church official website. Download the Audiala app for curated audio tours of London’s most iconic sites—including St Paul’s Church—and follow us on social media for exclusive tips, events, and inspiration for your next London adventure.