St Martin-in-the-Fields

St Martin-in-the-Fields is an Anglican parish church in London, standing on the north-eastern corner of Trafalgar Square. Its front looks like a classical temple, while a steeple in the style of medieval churches rises above the roof. This combination sets it apart from other London churches and makes it hard to miss on a walk through the centre.

What is the history of the church?

The first references to a church on this site date to the 13th century, when it was apparently used by monks from Westminster. Around 1542, under Henry VIII, it was replaced by a new building, and in 1602 it was enlarged. In 1721 the old church was demolished to make way for a new one.

The name has a literal origin. When the parish was founded, fields surrounded the church. By the time the present building went up, London had closed in around it, but the name stayed.

Who designed the present building?

The architect was James Gibbs, a disciple of Christopher Wren. He first suggested a round nave topped with a dome, but the idea was rejected as too expensive. A simpler, rectangular church was built instead and completed in 1726. Some sources give 1724 as the opening date, so it is worth keeping in mind when comparing accounts.

Gibbs was the first to combine a Palladian temple front with a medieval-style steeple successfully. The solution became a model that others later copied.

What can you see inside?

The interior has a barrel-vaulted ceiling with plasterwork attributed to Giovanni Battista Bagutti and Chrysostom Wilkins. Today the church is not only a place of worship but also a music venue.

A cafe operates in the crypt. Its floor is made up of many gravestones, including ones linked to the highwayman Jack Sheppard and to Nell Gwynne, mistress of Charles II. The crypt also houses a brass rubbing centre, where visitors make paper impressions of engraved brass designs.

Visiting tips

The church sits on Trafalgar Square, so it combines easily with other central London sights. A visit can be short: a few minutes for the facade and interior is enough. Stay longer if you plan a break in the crypt or want to attend a concert.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is St Martin-in-the-Fields? On the north-eastern corner of Trafalgar Square in London.

Who designed it and when was it built? James Gibbs, a pupil of Wren. It was completed in 1726, although some sources say 1724.

Where does the name come from? Fields surrounded the church when the parish was founded. The city later grew around it, but the name remained.

Is there a cafe in the church? Yes, in the crypt, with a floor of gravestones. A brass rubbing centre is there too.

Can you hear music there? Yes, the church is also a concert venue.

Is it still a working church? Yes, it is an Anglican parish church.