St. Martin-in-the-Fields is one of London’s most iconic churches. Located just off Trafalgar Square, this active, community-focused church is worth a visit if in the area.
The Crypt Café is a must-visit destination in its own right, so while here, pop into the church for a concert, a moment of quiet reflection or to just have a nose around this beautiful building.
History of St. Martin-in-the-Fields
The first official reference to the church was in 1222 when St. Martin’s was surrounded by fields and used by the Monks of Westminster. In around 1542, Henry VIII enlarged the parish boundaries and built a new church to keep plague victims from being carried through his palace. The current building replaced the original in 1721. It was London’s first free lending library and was the first to broadcast a religious message.
Things to Do at St. Martins
It is famous for its musical concerts including candlelight performances and lunchtime concerts. Find out What’s On in the Event Calendar. If you’re passing, then pop your head in as there are frequent rehearsals if you can’t book a concert.
The Crypt Café is a beautiful, underground café serving a range of food from snacks and drinks to main meals. As this is so centrally located in London, I frequently pop in here for a drink and soak up the peaceful atmosphere.
Next to the Crypt Café, you will find a fantastic gift shop and an area for Brass Rubbings. No need to book, you just need to turn up and pay the nominal fee.
Location
St. Martin-in-the-Fields is very centrally located at Trafalgar Square. Directly opposite the National Gallery, it is a few minutes walk from Leicester Square and Covent Garden. The steps are very useful to rest for a minute or grab a takeaway drink to watch the world go by for a while.
Getting to St. Martins
The closest station is Charing Cross, just a two minute walk for both the tube and train. Leicester Square and Embankment stations are also within a five minute walk.
Numerous bus routes go past Trafalgar Square. It really is a travel hub so you are likely to pass by at some point in your trip.
There is no car parking available, and I would not recommend driving in London at all. The nearest car park is Q-Park Trafalgar if you must drive in.
Read more: Best apps to plan your journey around London
Opening Hours
St. Martin-in-the-Fields operates an open door policy. You are welcome at any time, including on a Sunday. It is a working Anglican church so if a service is on, you cannot walk around.
Doors open on Monday to Saturday: 8.30am – 6pm
Sundays: 9am – 7pm with various services held throughout the day.
Check the official website before your visit as opening times may vary during special events, services or concerts.
Tickets
Entry to the Church is free and you can just turn up to explore the main church interior. You will need a ticket for a concert or special performance.
Toilets
Toilets are available in the Crypt. This entrance is to the left of the steps. Stairs and a lift are available.
Eating and Drinking
One of the highlights of visiting St. Martin-in-the-Fields is The Café in the Crypt. An atmospheric 18th century crypt, this offers a unique dining experience with exposed brick arches.
In the summer months, a pop-up café is available in the courtyard.
Accessibility
There is step-free access to both the church and café. If you go around the front of the church, left as you are looking at the steps, you will find the entrance on the North side. The Crypt Café circular entrance has both a circular staircase and lift available.
A Hearing Loop is available for services and concerts.
Top Tips for Visiting St. Martin-in-the-Fields
- Pick up a Free Family Trail if visiting with children
- Brass Rubbing is a traditional activity, located next to the shop in the Crypt.
- Don’t miss the Café in the Crypt. Even if you don’t want to sit and eat, it is worth a look.
- Book concert tickets ahead of time to avoid disappointment.
- Combine your visit with nearby attractions like the National Gallery, National Portrait Gallery and Trafalgar Square.
