Kensington Church St, London W8 4LA
St Mary Abbots Church
St Mary Abbots is a church located on Kensington High Street and the corner of Kensington Church Street in London W8. The present church structure was built in 1872 to the designs of Sir George Gilbert Scott, who combined neo-Gothic and early-English styles.
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About
St Mary Abbots Church is a stunning Anglican church located in the heart of Kensington, London. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and prominent location, the church is a popular destination for tourists visiting the city. Whether you're interested in exploring the church's historical significance or simply admiring its beauty, St Mary Abbots Church is a must-see destination.
The church dates back to the 12th century, although much of the current structure was built in the 19th century after a fire destroyed the original building. The church is known for its impressive Gothic Revival architecture, with its striking spire visible from miles away. The interior of the church is just as impressive, with ornate stained glass windows, intricate carvings, and soaring arches.
One of the most notable features of the church is the tomb of Sir Robert Clayton, a former Lord Mayor of London. The tomb, located in the chancel, is an impressive piece of Baroque art, with intricate carvings and a lifelike representation of Sir Robert himself. The church also houses a number of other historic artifacts, including a collection of 18th-century brass chandeliers and a 17th-century pulpit.
If you're interested in the church's religious significance, St Mary Abbots Church is still an active place of worship, with regular services held throughout the week. Visitors are welcome to attend services, although it's important to be respectful of the church's religious practices and customs.
For those interested in exploring the area around the church, Kensington is a vibrant and bustling neighborhood with plenty of shops, restaurants, and attractions to explore. The nearby Kensington Gardens, a sprawling park with beautiful gardens, walking paths, and monuments, is a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
Overall, St Mary Abbots Church is a must-see destination for anyone visiting London. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and central location, the church is a great way to immerse yourself in the city's culture and heritage. Whether you're interested in the church's religious significance or simply want to admire its beauty, St Mary Abbots Church is a true gem of London's skyline.
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Things to do nearby
St Mary Abbots Church is a prominent and historic church located in the heart of Kensington, London. As a tourist, there are plenty of places to explore and things to do in the vicinity of the church. Whether you're interested in history, art, culture, or just want to soak in the local atmosphere, there's something for everyone.
1. Kensington Gardens
One of the most popular attractions near St Mary Abbots Church is Kensington Gardens, one of the Royal Parks of London. The Gardens cover 275 acres and offer plenty of green space to relax, picnic, or stroll. You can visit the Diana Memorial Playground, see the statue of Peter Pan, or take a boat ride on the Round Pond. The gardens are also home to the Serpentine Gallery, a contemporary art museum, and the Serpentine Sackler Gallery, a cultural center.
2. Kensington Palace
Kensington Palace is another must-visit attraction near St Mary Abbots Church. The palace was the birthplace and childhood home of Queen Victoria and is now home to several members of the royal family, including the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. Visitors can tour the State Rooms, see the exhibition about Queen Victoria's life, and stroll through the Sunken Garden.
3. The Design Museum
If you're interested in design and architecture, the Design Museum is a great place to visit. The museum is located in a modern building in Kensington High Street and has a collection of over 10,000 objects related to design. Visitors can see exhibitions about fashion, graphic design, product design, and architecture.
4. The Natural History Museum
The Natural History Museum is another popular attraction near St Mary Abbots Church. The museum is home to a vast collection of natural specimens, including dinosaur skeletons, fossils, and taxidermy animals. The museum also has several galleries dedicated to the history of Earth, the oceans, and human evolution.
5. Holland Park
Holland Park is a beautiful park located in the west of Kensington. The park covers 54 acres and has plenty of green space, formal gardens, and woodland. Visitors can see the Kyoto Garden, a Japanese garden, and the Opera Holland Park, an outdoor opera theater.
6. Leighton House Museum
Leighton House Museum is a unique museum located in Holland Park Road. The museum was the former home of the Victorian artist Frederic, Lord Leighton and features his artwork and collections from his travels. The house has several beautiful rooms, including the Arab Hall, a stunning hall decorated with Islamic tiles.
7. Kensington High Street
If you're interested in shopping, Kensington High Street is a great place to explore. The street has plenty of high-end fashion stores, luxury boutiques, and designer shops. You can also find plenty of cafes, restaurants, and bars in the area.
In conclusion, St Mary Abbots Church is surrounded by plenty of attractions and things to do for tourists. Whether you're interested in history, art, culture, or just want to relax and enjoy the local atmosphere, there's something for everyone. From Kensington Gardens to the Design Museum and Kensington High Street, there's plenty to explore in this beautiful part of London.