St. Olave's Church, Hart Street, is a small medieval church in the City of London with a rich history dating back to the 13th century. The church is dedicated to St. Olaf, the patron saint of Norway, and is one of the few remaining medieval buildings in the City to have survived both the Great Fire of London and the Blitz during World War II.
One of the most intriguing aspects of St. Olave's Church is its connection to the famous diarist Samuel Pepys, who lived nearby and often attended services there. Pepys and his wife are buried in the church, making it a place of interest for those keen on English history and literature.
The church's porch is guarded by chilling skull carvings, which gave Charles Dickens the inspiration to describe it as "St Ghastly Grim" in his writings. These macabre images make for an eerie yet fascinating feature of the church's façade.
The interior of St. Olave's retains several original medieval features, including the beautiful 15th-century stained glass window depicting scenes from the life of St. Olave. Visitors are often struck by the sense of stepping back in time when entering the church.
St. Olave's Church serves as the guild church for the Clothworkers' Company, one of the Great Twelve Livery Companies of the City of London. This connection highlights its ongoing relevance to the city's history and commerce.
Making the Most of Your Visit:
Take a moment to appreciate the chilling skulls over the church's gateway. These macabre carvings have a history of capturing the imagination, and it's well worth spending a little time observing their details.
Don't rush through the church; instead, pause to explore the historical connections, particularly Samuel Pepys' association with the place. His presence is subtly felt within the walls, and there's a poignant brass plaque marking his family vault.
Look for the 15th-century stained glass quietly tucked inside. The vibrant depiction of scenes from St. Olave's life adds a splash of colour to the otherwise timeless interior.
After visiting St. Olave's, take a short walk over to Seething Lane Garden, just around the corner. It's a peaceful spot for reflection and to gather your thoughts about the historical marvels you've just explored.
If you enjoy exploring history through your camera lens, nearby St. Katharine Docks offers picturesque scenes that contrast with the medieval charm of St. Olave's. Enjoy the blend of London's layers of history in your photos.
Visiting Times & Costs:
St. Olave's Church, Hart Street, is generally open to the public from Monday to Friday, typically between the hours of 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. However, it is always advisable to check for any changes in opening times, particularly around holidays or special events.
Admission to the church is free, but donations are welcomed to help with the upkeep of this historic site.
The church is accessible to visitors with mobility needs, though some parts of the church may have uneven flooring due to its medieval origins. It is recommended to contact the church in advance to ensure that specific accessibility needs can be accommodated.
Address & Map:
Nearby:
