Facilities and features
Accessibility
There are two lavatories in the church, one of which is designed for disabled access.
There are plenty of places close by to secure your bike.
A NCP car park is close by.
Disabled WC
We have an easily navigated ramp and once inside the the Church everything is on one level.
Large print bibles and Prayer Books are available
St James warmly welcomes those who are accompanied by assistance dogs.
We have a disabled ramp and then once inside the building it is all on one level.
Our Building
London's pilgrimage church for those undertaking the Camino to Santiago de Compostella. Pilgrims can have their 'passports' stamped with our seal. The church is an oasis of calm in the midst of the busy city.
Following the devastation of the Great Fire of London the current St James Garlickhythe was designed by Sir Christopher Wren. Known as 'Wren's Lantern' because of the beauty of the natural light that floods into the church, it was opened in September 1682 and the spire was completed in 1717. The building survived the Blitz, so has many original features (including a wig peg in the pulpit!). It has the highest ceiling of any of Wren's churches, but is also small enough to retain a feeling of intimacy and prayerfulness.
Music and Worship
St James is the proud home to the Royal Jubilee Bells which were commissioned from the Whitechapel Bell Foundry to celebrate HRH the Queen's Diamond Jubilee in 2012. The bells were processed down the River Thames in a specially adapted barge as the central feature of the Queen's River Pageant.
There are eight bells, each named after a member of the Royal Family. They are rung regularly and we are delighted to welcome visiting bell ringers.
St James Garlickhythe regularly hosts concerts. Capacity is 200, we have a PA system and a grand piano.
If you are interested in holding an event please contact the Administrator at [email protected]
The organ was installed in 1719 by Johann Knoppell and is believed to have been originally built by Bernhard Schmidt, known as 'Father Smith'. In 2007 it was restored to its original glory by Mander Organs.
Our Director of Music is Dr Sir Andrew Parmley.
Our worship is an examplar of the Book of Common Prayer.
Our main act of worship is the 10.30am Sung Eucharist on Sundays usually accompanied by choral music. Following the service there is a time for fellowship when refreshments will be served.
Mattins is said on Sundays at 9.00am and the Eucharist celebrated during the week on Wednesdays Thursdays and Fridays.
St James has a long and proud history of musical excellence and we are privileged to have a number of visiting choirs: the St James Choir, Stellae Cantores, The Thames Chamber Choir, and the English Chamber choir. They sing in the English choral tradition.
Groups, Courses and Activities
Help for Visitors
We are delighted to welcome visitors and tourists to the church as well as groups on City Guided Tours. Please contact the vestry office if you would like a tour.
A short welcome leaflet contains helpful information on the main points of interest. For those who want to know a little more, you can delve into our history on the Church website.
The church is normally open on weekdays from Tuesday to Friday. Generally from 11am - 3pm. However, with our limited staffing this can change. If you are making a special visit please check in advance.
The church is open every Sunday morning from 8.30am -1pm
Please check the website, or email [email protected] for more details.
We love dogs!!
Other Features
Situated in the Vintry Ward, alongside Dowgate and Queenhithe, this is one of the most historic areas of the City of London, packed with interest. A walk around the parish, with its ancient Livery Halls, and stories is a very rewarding experience.
There are two well appointed meeting rooms available for hire. Both rooms are light and airy, have WiFi, video conferencing facilities, small kitchen areas and private access. The Parish Room accommodates 16 people sat at a board table and has The Old Vestry accommodates up to 25 people sat conference style.
The church is also available for hire for filming, conferences and concerts.
Please contact the parish administrator for further details: [email protected]