Top 10 Medieval Sites to Visit in London

London is a city steeped in history, and there are numerous medieval sites that offer visitors a glimpse into the city’s medieval past.


medieval-London

Here are ten notable medieval sites to visit in London:

Tower of London

Explore this iconic fortress founded by William the Conqueror in the 11th century. Discover its rich history as a royal palace, prison, and treasury, and marvel at the Crown Jewels.

Tower of London Official Website

Notable Features: The White Tower, Crown Jewels, Yeoman Warders (Beefeaters), Medieval Palace, Tower Green.

The White Tower of London

Westminster Abbey

Visit this magnificent medieval church, where English monarchs have been crowned, married, and buried since the 11th century. Admire its Gothic architecture and explore the breathtaking interior.

Westminster Abbey Official Website

Notable Features: Coronation Chair, Poets’ Corner, Royal Tombs, Gothic Architecture, The Lady Chapel.

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St. Paul’s Cathedral

Marvel at the grandeur of St. Paul’s Cathedral, one of London’s most recognizable landmarks. Built in the medieval period, this iconic cathedral showcases impressive architecture and offers panoramic views from its dome.

St. Paul’s Cathedral Official Website

Notable Features: Whispering Gallery, Golden Gallery, Great Fire of London Monument, Crypt, Magnificent Dome.

St. Paul's Cathedral

Hampton Court Palace

Although located slightly outside central London, this majestic palace is worth a visit. Built in the 16th century during the Tudor period, it features medieval elements and beautifully preserved Tudor gardens.

Hampton Court Palace Official Website

Notable Features: Henry VIII’s Apartments, Tudor Kitchens, Great Hall, Maze, Baroque Gardens.

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Guildhall

Explore the historic Guildhall, which has served as the administrative center of the City of London for centuries. Visit the Great Hall, dating back to the 15th century, and admire its stunning medieval architecture.

Guildhall Official Website

Notable Features: Great Hall, Roman Amphitheatre, Art Collection, Historic Civic Center.

Guildhall City of London Diliff

Temple Church

Step into the serene Temple Church, founded by the Knights Templar in the 12th century. This round church boasts exquisite medieval architecture and is renowned for its intricate stone carvings.

Temple Church Official Website

Notable Features: Round Church, Gothic Architecture, Knights Templar History, Effigies and Monuments.

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St. Bartholomew’s Priory and Hospital

Discover the ancient St. Bartholomew’s Priory and Hospital, founded in the 12th century. Explore its medieval ruins and visit the stunning St. Bartholomew the Great Church, one of London’s oldest surviving churches.

St. Bartholomew’s Priory and Hospital Official Website

Notable Features: Ancient Priory Ruins, Norman Architecture, Historical Hospital, Medieval Cloisters.

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The Charterhouse

Take a tour of The Charterhouse, a historic complex that dates back to the 14th century. It served as a Carthusian monastery, a private mansion, and an almshouse, preserving medieval elements throughout.

The Charterhouse Official Website

Notable Features: Tudor Great Chamber, Ancient Monastery, Museum of London’s History, Beautiful Gardens.

800px London Charterhouse Entrance from Charterhouse Square

Lambeth Palace

Visit Lambeth Palace, the official residence of the Archbishop of Canterbury. Parts of the palace date back to the 13th century, and it showcases magnificent medieval architecture, including the Lollard’s Tower.

Lambeth Palace Official Website

Notable Features: Archbishop’s Residence, Medieval Gatehouse, Chapel, Gardens, Library.

Lambeth Palace geograph.org.uk 343862

All Hallows by the Tower

Explore All Hallows by the Tower, London’s oldest church, founded in 675 AD. Discover its medieval crypt, which survived the Great Fire of London, and admire its historic artifacts and stunning views of the Tower Bridge.

All Hallows by the Tower Official Website

Notable Features: Oldest Church in the City of London, Roman and Saxon Remains, Crypt Museum, Bell Tower.

799px Southeastern View of All Hallows by the Tower

These ten sites offer a captivating journey into London’s medieval history and provide a fascinating glimpse into the city’s rich past.

From grand castles to serene churches, each location offers its own unique charm and a chance to step back in time.