Welcome to St James's
If you are a visitor to London, you will not want to miss the opportunity of seeing one of London's most beautiful churches.
Designed and built by Sir Christopher Wren, St James's was consecrated in 1684. The church, which witnessed the baptism of the poet and visionary painter, William Blake, has a colourful history and literary allusions are frequent, notably in the works of Evelyn, Defoe and Vanbrugh. It has a fine musical tradition and is popular for weddings and memorial services.
The building was severely damaged by enemy bombs during the Second World War. Restoration work was completed in 1954 and the church's most striking original features survive, namely the carvings around the altar, the organ case and marble font, all fashioned by Grinling Gibbons.
St James's is an international centre of Christian ministry and the church attracts visitors from all over the world while continuing to offer spiritual nourishment to those who live and work in the area. St James's flourishes as a place for prayer and celebration, a centre for healing. a forum for the arts and a platform for public debate on issues of public importance.
All are welcome to experience and share this vision either by attending the regular services or through participation in our extensive programme of activities.