Temple Church is a medieval church located in the city of London, famous for its stunning architecture and deep historical roots. Originally built in the 12th century by the Knights Templar, it features beautiful circular and rectangular buildings, offering a glimpse into Gothic design. The church is renowned for its intricate stonework and memorials to notable figures. It has played a significant role in the history of London, serving as a significant site for legal and ceremonial purposes. Visitors can explore its rich past and enjoy its serene atmosphere, making it a noteworthy destination in the city.
What each source says
- Viator 3.8 11,570
- Google Places 4.6 2,750
- Tripadvisor 4.5 693
Bar length is review volume, so you can see how much weight sits behind each score. Captured 2026-08-21.
What visitors single out
Liked
- Architectural Beauty The church features unique architecture, including a round nave modeled after the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. Stained glass windows, effigies, and historical details provide a visually stunning experience.
- Convenient Location Situated near Temple Underground station and other legal landmarks, Temple Church is easily accessible. The surrounding area, with its hidden gardens and cafes, adds to the charm of the visit.
- Manageable Crowds Unlike more popular attractions, Temple Church offers a more intimate experience with fewer crowds. This allows for self-paced exploration and a more personal connection with the site.
- Peaceful Atmosphere Located off the main streets, the Temple Church provides a tranquil escape from the bustling city. It is a place for reflection and appreciation of history.
- Rich History and Significance Temple Church offers a deep dive into medieval history, particularly the Knights Templar, Magna Carta, and their influence on legal systems. Informative displays and knowledgeable staff enhance the experience.
Criticised
- Can be hard to find Tucked away off Fleet Street, finding Temple Church can be a challenge. Navigating the courtyards and surrounding buildings requires careful attention.
- Entry Fee Unlike some other churches, there is an entrance fee for adults. While generally considered reasonable, this may be a deterrent for some visitors.
- Limited Content There is not a lot of displayed content, history or videos. Visitors interested in a more in-depth understanding of the church's history may need to do some research before their visit.
- Limited Opening Hours The Temple Church is only open to the public during the week (Monday to Friday), which may not suit all travel schedules. It is important to check the website for updated times.
- Male-Dominated Focus Exhibitions predominantly highlight male figures and achievements. This may present a limited perspective on the broader historical context.
The longer read
The Temple Church, located in the legal district near Fleet Street, offers visitors a unique glimpse into medieval history, particularly its connection to the Knights Templar, Magna Carta, and the foundations of common law influencing modern legal systems. Many reviewers describe it as a hidden gem, a peaceful oasis away from the bustling city, making it a worthwhile stop for those interested in history and architecture. Its central location, easily accessible from Temple Underground station, adds to its appeal. The church's architecture stands out, especially the round nave modeled after the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. The church features effigies and tombs of notable figures, including William Marshall, a celebrated knight. Visitors can explore the church's history through informational boards and exhibits detailing its links to the Knights Templar, the Magna Carta, and its role in shaping legal principles. Knowledgeable and welcoming staff and volunteers are frequently mentioned, enhancing the visitor experience with insights and answers to questions. A small entry fee grants access to the church, with concessions available. Some reviewers recommend checking the website for opening times, as it is open to the public on weekdays only. Additionally, attending a Sunday Choral Service is highly recommended by some for an immersive experience. The church's meticulous preservation and restoration, even after significant damage during World War II, are frequently praised. Visitors can climb a narrow spiral staircase to an upper viewing gallery for a different perspective of the church's architecture and mosaic tiles. Beyond its historical significance, the Temple Church also offers beautiful stained glass windows and a serene atmosphere conducive to reflection. Its connection to the Da Vinci Code novel may also intrigue some visitors. The surrounding area, including the Inner and Middle Temples and their gardens, provides a tranquil escape from the city's hustle. While not as grand as Westminster Abbey or St. Paul's Cathedral, its unique history, architecture, and peaceful ambiance make it a captivating destination for those seeking a deeper understanding of English history and legal traditions.
A synthesis of third-party reviews supplied by Mindtrip travel index. Not written by Breaks.
Getting there
- Phone
- +44 20 7353 8559
- Website
- templechurch.com
| Mon | 10:00 - 16:00 |
|---|---|
| Tue | 10:00 - 16:00 |
| Wed | 10:00 - 16:00 |
| Thu | 10:00 - 16:00 |
| Fri | 10:00 - 16:00 |
| Sat | Closed |
| Sun | Closed |
Against the neighbourhood
Rated 4.0 against a median of 4.6 across the 8 venues we hold for Fleet Street, and the most-reviewed of them.
Still deciding?
- What is the historical significance of Temple Church in London?
- When is the best time of year or day to visit Temple Church for a good experience?
- Does Temple Church offer guided tours, and what can visitors expect from them?
- What are the must-see features or highlights inside Temple Church?
- How accessible is Temple Church for people with mobility needs, and what visitor facilities are available?
Where this comes from
Venue records are drawn from the Mindtrip travel index, which aggregates place data and review signals from Google Places, Tripadvisor and booking providers. Ratings are reproduced per source rather than merged into a single number. Distances to nearby venues are computed here as great-circle distances between the published coordinates, not walking or driving routes. Comparison figures are medians computed across the venues we hold for the same neighbourhood or city.
Source: Mindtrip travel index, captured 2026-08-21.
What this page cannot tell you
- Descriptions and review summaries are supplied by the source index and are reproduced as published; they are not independently verified by Breaks.
- Ratings and review counts are point-in-time snapshots and drift constantly. Check the venue's own site or the rating provider for the current figure.
- Opening hours change seasonally and at short notice. Confirm with the venue before travelling.
- Category labels come from the source index and are occasionally wrong — a venue may be filed under a type that does not match how it trades.
- Straight-line distances understate real walking distance, especially where a river or railway sits between two points.