 |
Visit www.TourBlaze.mobi for a mobile phone version of Pocket London |
 |
ST MARTIN-IN-THE-FIELDS  |
||
 |
||
|
St Martin in the Fields |
One of the most famous non-cathedral churches in London |
Its prominent position in the north east corner of Trafalgar Square has made the Anglican church of St Martin-in-the-Fields one of the most famous non-cathedral churches in London. It houses a brass rubbing centre, where a team of experts will help you try your hand with brass replicas; including Medieval knights, St George with Dragon and William Shakespeare. In the crypt you will find a well stocked shop and a café. The church of St Martin-in-the-Fields also enjoys one of the finest musical reputations in the world. Since 1726 it has played host to some of the world’s greatest musicians: Handel and Mozart both played on the Schrider organ in 1727. Today it continues to host lunch-time and evening concerts including regular jazz nights. |
Did you know? |
In the early 19th century, the crypt was used as a shelter for the homeless, including soldiers and tramps. The vicar of the time, Dick Sheppard, developed an ethos of an “Ever Open Door” which has been continued to the present day. The crypt was also used as an air raid shelter during the Blitz of World War 2. |
Early references to a church located here date from the 13th century when monks from Westminster Abbey were known to visit. At that time, the church was located in isolated fields between the cities of London and Westminster, hence the name in-the-Fields. In the mid 16th century King Henry VIII developed and expanded the church to stop plague victims coming anywhere near his grand Palace at Whitehall. |
 |
Inside St Martin-in-the-Fields |
In 1721, the old church was demolished and a new one was designed by Scottish architect James Gibb, which was completed in 1726. The design became one of the most influential in the world. It was copied throughout the United States as it became a model for Colonial style church buildings, characterised by its rectangular shape, huge columns and high steeple. |
Did you know? |
In 1924 the first ever religious service was broadcast on TV from St Martin-in-the Fields. |
Among the highlights of the spacious interior of the church, is a royal box to the left of the altar, where kings worshipped. During the 18th century, the church became so popular that in order to worship here you were required to pay an annual rent for a pew! |
The Church is open daily. |
 Charing Cross |
SEE ALSO |
