Holy Sepulchre Church, also called St Sepulchre-without-Newgate, is on Holborn Viaduct, opposite the former site of Newgate Prison. The church’s walls, tower and porch date from 1450; after the Great Fire of 1666, it was rebuilt and later altered. Inside, look for stained glass, the Musicians’ Chapel and the Fusiliers’ battalion flags. The church is linked to Captain John Smith and Sir Henry Wood, founder of the Proms. Its quieter interior offers a place for reflection amid the nearby city streets.
A church beside Newgate
Holy Sepulchre Church is also known as St Sepulchre-without-Newgate. The name refers to its position outside the medieval walls of the City of London. It stands across from the former Newgate Prison site, where the Old Bailey is now.
Public executions moved from Tyburn to the street between the prison and church in 1783. They continued there until 1868, when they moved inside the prison. A replica of the execution bell is kept in the church. It recalls the bell rung outside a condemned prisoner’s cell on the evening before an execution.
From medieval fabric to later changes
The church’s walls, tower and porch date from 1450. The Great Fire of 1666 gutted the building, which was then rebuilt. Its appearance changed substantially over time: the ceiling and plasterwork date from 1834, and major alterations and exterior refacing followed in 1878.
Inside, stained glass sits alongside elements from different periods and styles. Some windows depict Gothic architecture dating from 1450. Look for the stained-glass portrait of Dame Nellie Melba in the Musicians’ Chapel.
Music, memorials and burial places
Holy Sepulchre is known as the musicians’ church and is also a memorial chapel to the Fusiliers. Battalions’ flags hang inside; some show signs of age. The church is also associated with Sir Henry Wood, founder of the Proms at the Royal Albert Hall, who is buried there.
Captain John Smith, associated with the English settlement in Virginia, was buried at the church before the Great Fire. His grave is no longer visible; a marker identifies the burial place. The Royal Fusiliers Remembrance Garden provides another place for quiet reflection.
Events and exhibitions
Concerts and other events take place in the church, including the Songs from the Viaduct concert series. Art exhibitions have also been held there, including displays promoting lesser-known artists. Check the church’s website for current programmes before your visit.
FAQ
Is Holy Sepulchre Church free to enter?
The church is described as free to enter.
What can you see inside Holy Sepulchre Church?
Look for stained glass, the Musicians’ Chapel, the Fusiliers’ battalion flags and a replica of the execution bell.
Where is Holy Sepulchre Church?
It is on Holborn Viaduct, across from the former Newgate Prison site, where the Old Bailey now stands.
Is Holy Sepulchre Church wheelchair accessible?
The entrance, seating and restrooms are wheelchair accessible.
