Temple Church — Attraction in London

Literally the birthplace of the common law or what influenced it at least that in turn also contributed to the Declaration of Independence in America as well as the bill of rights that later on after world war 1 continued to be “THE UNIVERSAL DECLARATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS”. Besides all that it is one of the most beautiful churches in England and filled with history.

Whether or not you've read The Da Vinci Code and subsequent thrillers, you may have heard of the Knights Templar. A few facts can be confirmed about the Knights. A group of pilgrims traveled to Jerusalem in 1119, and some of them were armed and followed a strict, religiously inspired code. Here's where the facts get muddy. According to the story, nine among them took vows to become monks and were trapped in the Temple of Solomon. Or so the story goes...

Named Knights Templar because of the Temple of Solomon ("templar" meaning of the temple) their group quickly blossomed as more pilgrims began traveling to Jerusalem from Europe. Muslim–Christian tensions in Jerusalem rose, and it became very expensive to protect the Christian pilgrims. Funds were raised from Europe as the Knights grew in number and prestige.

Back in London, the Knights began to influence politics. With wealthy friends and their Church in central London, the Templars became intertwined in the financial and domestic concerns of the burgeoning English nation. The Master of the Church was an ex officio member of Parliament: separation of Church and State was more than five hundred years away.

With a distinct round nave, the Temple Church was consecrated in 1185. The round church is modeled on the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. (In a twist of fate, that church may originally have been a temple to Aphrodite in the second century.)

But by the late 1200s, the Crusades weren't going so well, and, with other troubles in France, the clout of the Knights waned. When they eventually fell in 1307, their land was seized by the Crown. King Edward II used the land and buildings for law colleges that developed into the present-day Inns of Court.

During World War II, German firebombs damaged the roof of the Temple Church, but it has since been restored. Visit the website for details about when the sanctuary is open for services and musical performances

Side note: the library at Middle Temple owns valuable antique maps. These maps depict land we now know not to exist, but they are fascinating, nonetheless. A 1570 edition Abraham Ortelius' Theatrum Orbis Terrarum (Theater of the World). Check the Middle Temple Library...

We visited Temple Church about a year ago, and it remains one of our favourite hidden gems in London. Nestled between the Inns of Court in the heart of the city, this 12th-century church is steeped in history and offers a fascinating glimpse into medieval London.

History & Architecture

Temple Church was originally founded by the Knights Templar in the 12th century, and its unique round design was inspired by the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. The architecture immediately captivated us—especially the circular Temple Round and towering, vaulted ceilings. As you walk through the church, you’re surrounded by medieval effigies and the tombs of former knights, which are beautifully preserved and add a sense of ancient mystery to the church.

The chancel area and sanctuary are equally impressive, with intricate stained-glass windows and gothic arches. The history of the Templars and their role in the Crusades is woven into the very fabric of the church, making it feel like you’re stepping back in time.

Visitor Experience

Even though we visited about a year ago, Temple Church still stands out as one of the most peaceful and awe-inspiring places we’ve been to in London. The church is an active place of worship, so there’s a quiet reverence in the air, making it a perfect spot to reflect or explore in solitude. We found the audio guide incredibly informative, providing context on the church’s history and its restoration over the years.

Its intimate size means it’s never overcrowded, so you can explore without the usual hustle and bustle of other tourist attractions in London. The Round Church section, with its ancient stone floor and high vaulted ceiling, is particularly striking and feels almost otherworldly.

Visitor Information • Opening Times: Usually open Monday to Friday from 10 am to 4 pm, though always worth checking the website for any updates. • Tickets: £6 for adults, with discounts available for concessions. We also noticed that guided tours are available for a deeper dive into its fascinating past. • Location: It’s conveniently located near Temple Underground Station, just a short walk from both Fleet Street and the River Thames.

Temple Church is a must-see if you’re ever in London and want to step off the beaten path. The combination of its rich history, beautiful architecture, and peaceful atmosphere makes it one of the city’s most captivating historical sites. We’re so glad we visited and will definitely return next time we’re...

Grade 1 listed building. One of London's hidden gems! The entrance can be a little hard to find. One of 3 or 4 circular Knights Templer churches that still survives in the UK. The Knights Templers always built circular churches. Used as an international bank in the 12th century as the Knights Templers were the richest organisation. They lent money to a variety of European Kings, which eventually led to their downfall via King Philip 6th of France who didn't want to have to pay them back! The Round Church built in 1100's and consecrated 1185 by Patriarch Heraclius of Jerusalem, for the Knights Templers HQ in the UK and used for initiation services. This part of the church, (now used as the nave) has the earliest surviving free standing perbeck marble columns in the UK. It also contains 9 lifesize 13th and 14th century stone effigies of noble knights. A wood paneled circular ceiling surrounded by high up windows. Feels very light and airy within with a plethora of rhubarb like columns and arches. The rectangular part of the church was erected 1200's and consecrated 1240. Has 3 parts. The middle is used for services and concerts and has excellent acoustics. The Magna Carta was signed here in 1215. Shakespeare alluded to it through his Henry 6th part 1 and The War of the Roses. In 2002 this was commemorated with the planting of a red and a white rose bushes planted in the garden. Both the circular and the rectangular parts have separate libraries and gardens. Christopher Wren renovated it after The Great Fire of London 1666 as did the Victorians into Gothic style interiors. £5 entry and worth every penny! It is rarely crowded as everytime I have been I have been the only person there. Open 10am to 4pm Mondays to Fridays. No toilets! In close proximity to Central Criminal Court (Old Bailey), St Sepulchre's Church, London's first drinking fountain, St Paul's Cathedral, Bart's Pathology Museum, Museum of London, The Golden Boy of Pye Corner, The River Thames, The Millennium Bridge, The Tate Modern and Shakespeare's Globe Theatre. Nearest stations are Temple, Blackfriars and...