St Giles in the Fields is an 18th-century church on St Giles High Street, close to London’s Theatreland and a short walk from Leicester Square, Chinatown, Covent Garden and Piccadilly Circus. A church has stood on this site for more than a millennium, and the present building is notable as the first English church built in the Palladian style. Step inside to see its tilework and glass, or take a quiet break from the surrounding streets. The church also supports people experiencing homelessness.
A church site with a long history
A church has stood on this site for more than a millennium. The present building dates to the 18th century, but the history of St Giles in the Fields reaches back to medieval times. The words “in the Fields” refer to the parish’s former reach across a wide area.
A leper hospital once stood here. In the 15th century, the church was near the route to the gallows at Tyburn. A tradition associated with the site says condemned people were offered a final drink of ale at the church gate, known as “St Giles’ Bowl.”
The present church
The 18th-century church is noted for its Palladian design, an early example of the style in an English church. Inside, look for the black-and-white floor tiles, added in the late 19th century, along with the glasswork. The building is not large, so a brief visit can focus on its architecture and interior details.
A quiet stop in central London
St Giles in the Fields sits near Theatreland and within walking distance of Leicester Square, Chinatown, Covent Garden and Piccadilly Circus. Its interior offers a place to sit away from the activity outside.
The church supports people experiencing homelessness, including through help with clothing, food and health needs. A Saturday morning visit may coincide with this work. Check the church website for further information about its history and activities.
Perguntas frequentes
How old is St Giles in the Fields?
A church has stood on the site for more than a millennium. The present church dates to the 18th century.
What is St Giles in the Fields known for?
It is noted as the first English church built in the Palladian style. The site also has medieval history and distinctive black-and-white floor tiles added in the late 19th century.
Where is St Giles in the Fields?
It is on St Giles High Street in central London, near Theatreland and within walking distance of Leicester Square, Chinatown, Covent Garden and Piccadilly Circus.
