St. James's Church, Piccadilly

St. James's, Piccadilly features free lunchtime recitals 3 days a week.

St. James's Church, Piccadilly is the home of free lunchtime recitals
St. James's Church, Piccadilly is the home of free lunchtime recitals cc licensed photo by ahisgett

St. James's Church, Piccadilly is a beautiful Christopher Wren design church that was first consecrated in 1684. The church has a rich history with minor repairs and renovations taking place throughout. Major repairs where performed in 1884 and again between 1947 and 1954 after major damage from a bomb strike during the Second World War.

We have included this church in our 'Theatres and Venues' section because of it's popular lunchtime recitals every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, a concept similar to that of St. Martin-in-the-Fields. These recitals are popular with tourists and locals alike. The 50 minute recitals begin at 1:10 pm and are free, however donation £3.50 is suggested. There are also evening concerts scheduled throughout the year, but most of these do have an admission charge.

You can view a list of the upcoming concerts playing at the St. James's Piccadilly on their official website linked above.



Facts For Your Visit

Fee: No

St. James's Church, Piccadilly Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays

  • Monday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Thursday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Address: 197 Piccadilly, London W1J 9LL, UK

Phone: 020 7734 4511

Official Website: St. James's Church, Piccadilly

St. James's Church, Piccadilly Reviews

Rated 4.6 out of 5 Star Rating

5 Star Rating St James’s Piccadilly Church A remarkable example of restrained yet confident ecclesiastical architecture, set quietly within the intensity of Piccadilly. Designed by Sir Christopher Wren, the building stands out not through excess, but through proportion, balance, and clarity of form. The exterior is elegant and composed, with clean lines and a measured use of classical elements. It does not compete with its surroundings, yet maintains a distinct identity—calm, ordered, and deliberate. Inside, the atmosphere shifts noticeably. The space feels open and light, with a simplicity that enhances rather than diminishes its presence. The absence of heavy ornamentation allows the structure itself—columns, volume, and symmetry—to define the experience. The churchyard adds another layer, creating a small but meaningful separation from the surrounding city. This transition from movement to stillness is one of the building’s strongest qualities. A refined and thoughtful work of architecture, where discipline and proportion create lasting impact.
Araz N. Imanov - 3 months ago

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5 Star Rating What gorgeous church tucked away from the busy Piccadilly Circus. I was in awe at the beautifully crafted garden, even at dusk, so recommend if you are going to the church for a service or an event to go early to explore x went for a candlelight orchestra and it was ethereal, what a lovely venue, thank you for hosting x
Michaela Storoschuk - 5 months ago

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5 Star Rating One of Wrens lovely churches, and the bonus was that some musicians were having lunchtime practice, so we got a little concert as well 😀. The yard outside had a number of lovely street food stalls
Stuart Johnson - a year ago

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4 Star Rating St James Piccadilly Church was designed by Sir Christopher Wren. The church was rebuilt in 1940 after the war. The small church is beautiful and there is no cost to visit. Visited because family was baptized here in the 1700s.
Michael S. - 10 months ago

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5 Star Rating A hidden gem amidst the bustling Piccadilly area in London. Despite being located in a busy district, the atmosphere inside the church is serene and calming. Its beautiful Baroque architecture and intricate marble carvings give the place a unique charm and lasting impression. The church also hosts events and classical music concerts, offering a perfect escape for those seeking tranquility in the heart of the city.
Tongz NP - a year ago

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Directions

Tube Line Nearest Station Walking Time
Bakerview and Piccadilly LinesPiccadilly Circus3 MInutes
Jubilee and Victoria LinesGreen Park4 MInutes

How to get to St. James's Church, Piccadilly by Tube

From Piccadilly Circus Station exit onto Coventry St. and go to your left (west), then left on Shaftesbury Ave. Continue on Piccadilly Place. Watch for St. James's Church, Piccadilly on your left.

From Green Park Station head northeast along Piccadilly to the church which will be on your right.

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