Hotels near St Pauls Cathedral

In 1666, while London still struggled with an epidemic of bubonic plague, an enormous fire ripped through the heart of the city. Unfortunately, the cathedral was all but destroyed, and the decision was made to construct a new one in a more modern style for the time. The famous façade with its domed roof was thus conceived.

The cathedral hosted the wedding of Prince Charles and Princess Diana in the early 1980s, which at the time seemed like the perfect fairytale. Of course, the marriage didn't last, but did bring about the births of Princes William and Harry, shaping the future of the Royal Family.

Now, it's possible to walk through this great cathedral and contemplate its centuries of history. Come for a service in the capital's most famous church or simply visit to admire its paintings and sculptures depicting famous religious scenes. You can also see the Commemorative Crosses, created in memory of the victims of World War I.

This is one of the capital's finest modern art spaces, with a cinema and a rotating programme of temporary exhibitions. Admire one of the city's best examples of striking Brutalist architecture here, and walk around the tranquil grounds, marked by fountains and ample space to sit and read or dine al fresco.

Surely the most elaborate prison ever built in London, you can see where icons of history such as Anne Boleyn, wife of Henri VIII, were held and executed. The Tower once also contained an elaborate zoo, and today you can admire the vast armoury and the magnificent Crown Jewels.

Ride the express elevator 95 floors up Europe's tallest skyscraper, arriving at a viewing platform with striking panoramic views across the city. It's just across London Bridge, and will allow you to see many famous monuments from up high. There's also a chic restaurant and bar, with the backdrop of London's twinkling lights to set the mood for a special night out.