Tucked between London Bridge and The Shard, Southwark Cathedral in Bankside, London, is one of the city’s best-kept secrets. While visitors often gravitate toward grander landmarks like Westminster or St Paul’s, this cathedral offers a tranquil blend of fascinating history and quiet beauty, far from the usual crowds. More than 800 years old, it stands as a remarkable example of Early English Gothic architecture, with its soaring arches and vivid stained glass windows that have captivated generations. Every corner seems to carry a story, echoing the centuries that have shaped its character.
Today, in addition to its regular services, Candlelight at Southwark Cathedral has become a beloved concert series that fills this historic landmark with music and light. Thousands of candles flicker as classically trained musicians reimagine your favourite songs on strings, and the result is pretty breathtaking.
Why is Southwark Cathedral in London really worth a visit?
To put it simply, the history of this place is as breathtaking as its beauty. It’s the oldest Gothic cathedral in London and the site it was built on has been a place of worship since at least 606 AD. A host of famous faces have walked beneath its tall stone columns and flying buttresses, including Chaucer’s closest friend John Gower, an esteemed 15th-century court poet. In fact, Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales famously begin in Southwark, London.
Inside the cathedral, the medieval stone carvings and ribbed vaulted ceiling are a sight to see, but perhaps the most impressive feat is the 13th-century retrochoir tucked behind the high altar (extra points if you spot the stained glass window dedicated to Shakespeare, too).
What can you do at Southwark Cathedral?
The London cathedral hosts weekly services and temporary art exhibitions. Visiting hours are 9am-6pm Monday to Saturday and 8:30am-5pm on Sundays. They offer 45-minute guided tours and there’s an on-site café if you fancy a coffee and a cake.
What’s more, as one of the most popular Southwark Cathedral events, Candlelight concerts transform the space into a cosy, magical setting with glowing candles and beautiful live music. This series of classical tributes guided by a string quartet pays homage to a range of genres and artists, from Ed Sheeran and Coldplay to Taylor Swift, Oasis and many more. Southwark Cathedral tickets for Candlelight are highly sought-after, so be sure to secure yours in advance.
Where is Southwark Cathedral and how to get there?
The cathedral is located at 1 London Bridge, Montague Close, London SE1 9DA, in the Bankside area of southeast London. London Bridge is the closest tube station to the cathedral, and you can arrive at the venue from this stop in less than a 10-minute walk.
Southwark Cathedral tickets – is entry free?
There’s no need to purchase Southwark Cathedral tickets if you’re planning a visit — entry is free, with donations gladly accepted on arrival.
Who is buried in Southwark Cathedral?
The poet John Gower and William Shakespeare’s brother Edmund Shakespeare are buried in the cathedral.
When was Southwark Cathedral built?
The cathedral was built mainly between 1220 and 1420.
Nearby Venues in London
Located on the south bank of the River Thames, this Bankside cathedral is a historic building surrounded by several iconic London landmarks including The Shard, London Bridge, Tate Modern and Borough Market. Other Candlelight venues in London including Glaziers Hall are located just a stone’s throw from this cathedral too.