St. Paul's Church (the Actor's Church)

Frommer's Review

With the Drury Lane Theatre, the Royal Opera House, and many other theaters within its parish, St. Paul's has long been associated with the theatrical arts. Inside you'll find scores of memorial plaques dedicated to such luminaries as Vivien Leigh, Boris Karloff, Margaret Rutherford, and Noel Coward, to name only a few. Designed by Inigo Jones in 1631, this church has been substantially altered over the years, but has retained a quiet garden-piazza in the rear. Among the famous people buried here are woodcarver Grinling Gibbons, writer Samuel Butler, and actress Ellen Terry. Landscape painter J. M. W. Turner and librettist W. S. Gilbert were both baptized here. The church often opens on Saturday at some point, but hours vary. There are free lunchtime piano recitals, most often scheduled on Thursday or Friday at 1pm -- check before heading here if you want to attend one. The church still draws members of the entertainment world.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.