This list covers Catholic churches across London, from parish churches with daily Mass to historic buildings that draw visitors for their architecture and music. Some serve particular communities, with Mass in Portuguese or Slovak, services in Latin or a link to the Italian community.
When choosing, look at Mass times, the language of the service and whether the church has step-free access. Central churches often have lunchtime or daily Masses that suit people working nearby, while quieter parish churches are better if you want a settled community.
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Each option links to its full entry below.
#1Only Catholic church in the City
Daily Mass
Lunchtime services
St Mary Moorfields is the only Catholic church serving the City of London, and its daily and lunchtime services fit around the working day. Despite the busy surroundings on Eldon Street, it keeps a quiet, peaceful atmosphere and welcomes visitors as well as regulars.
#2Rich history
Striking interior
Welcoming community
St Peter's Italian Church takes its character from the Italian Catholic community it serves, and its history and interior reward a visit as much as attending Mass. It stands on Clerkenwell Road, and the parish has a reputation for making newcomers feel at home. A good choice for worship in a historic setting.
#3Multiple daily Masses
Choir
Richly decorated interior
The Church of the Immaculate Conception stands on Mount Street in Mayfair and is known for its richly decorated interior and quiet, prayerful setting. Masses are held several times a day, and a choir adds to the services. It suits both parishioners and visitors who want a calm place to pray in central London.
#4Soho Square location
Active parish community
Wheelchair-accessible entrance and car park
St Patrick's on Soho Square is a quiet parish church in a lively part of the West End. It has a wheelchair-accessible entrance and car park, an active community and an attractive building suited to reflection. A good place for a moment of prayer in the middle of Soho.
#5Dates from 1874
Covent Garden location
Diverse community
Corpus Christi stands on Maiden Lane between Covent Garden Market and the Strand. The church dates from 1874, when it was unveiled by Cardinal Manning, and it combines its architecture with a diverse present-day community that includes artists. A peaceful stop in a busy part of the West End.
#6Mass in English and Portuguese
Nursery for young children
Wheelchair-accessible car park
St Anne's, on Underwood Road in Whitechapel, is a spacious parish with Mass in both English and Portuguese, so it suits Portuguese-speaking families as well as local parishioners. It has a wheelchair-accessible car park and entrance, a nursery for young children and a community that makes celebrations welcome.
#7Stained glass windows
Rich history
Regular Mass times
St Etheldreda's is a historic church tucked away on Ely Place, with a peaceful interior and stained glass that draws visitors as well as parishioners. History and architecture are the main attractions, and regular Mass times make it practical for worship. A calm break from the busy streets around Farringdon.
#8English and Latin services
Choir at Solemn Mass
Outreach to the homeless
St James's, Spanish Place, offers services in both English and Latin, with a choir that is a highlight at Solemn Mass. The building's beauty and acoustics suit music lovers as much as worshippers, and the parish runs outreach for people who are homeless. It has a wheelchair-accessible entrance and a regular timetable of Masses.
#9Thoughtful homilies
Central location
Peaceful atmosphere
St Charles Borromeo on Ogle Street is a central church noted for the quality of its homilies and a calm interior. Its location makes it convenient for locals and visitors attending Mass and other events. The architecture is attractive and the welcome warm.
#10Sunday Mass
Choir
Children read at Mass
The Church of the English Martyrs on Prescot Street holds Sunday Mass and has an accessible entrance. The parish is diverse, children take part in the readings and a choir contributes to services, giving worship a family feel. There is history in the building too, which is worth a look.
#11Traditional services with music
Community events
Retreats
Our Lady of the Assumption and St Gregory, on Warwick Street, offers traditional Catholic services with music in a historic building. The parish also organises community events and retreats. A quiet place for reflection for locals and visitors who appreciate the architecture and interior.
#12Masses in English and Slovak
Old Rite Masses
Behind Guy's Hospital
Our Lady of La Salette and Saint Joseph, on Melior Street behind Guy's Hospital, is a small church that holds Mass in English and Slovak. It is home to a Slovak community, offers Old Rite Masses and is wheelchair accessible. A peaceful choice in SE1 for Slovak speakers and for those who prefer traditional liturgy.
#13Daily Masses
Friendly community
Convenient location
Our Lady, Queen of Heaven on Queensway is a parish church in W2 with daily Mass and a friendly community. The atmosphere is peaceful and the location convenient for residents and visitors, making it a practical choice for regular worship.
#14Screens for prayers and songs
Paintings and statues
Services through the week
St Patrick's on Dundee Street offers services throughout the week in a peaceful setting with a beautiful chapel. Screens help the congregation follow prayers and songs, and the church's paintings and statues add to its historical interest. Suitable for prayer, attending Mass or exploring the building.
#15Sung Sunday service
8.30 am Sunday Mass
Near Hyde Park
Open 24 hours
211 Old Marylebone Rd, London NW1 5QT, United KingdomOur Lady of the Rosary on Old Marylebone Road holds Mass at several times through the week, including an 8.30 am Sunday Mass, and has a sung Sunday service. The parish is welcoming, the sermons are easy to follow and the church is a short way from Hyde Park.
#16Historic building
Music at Mass
Convenient Mass times
Saint Patrick, on Cornwall Road near Waterloo, is a small parish with a historic building designed by a notable architect. Masses are held at convenient times, with music and thoughtful homilies, and the church offers a quiet place to pray close to Waterloo.
London is home to a rich history of Catholicism, with many churches spread throughout the city. Whether you're looking to attend mass, light a candle in remembrance, or simply admire the stunning architecture, there is sure to be a Catholic church nearby. Check out the map below to see all the locations of Catholic churches in London. View Ranking
The Catholic Church in London has a rich history that dates back to Roman times when early Christian communities were established in the city. However, the official reestablishment of the Catholic Church in England happened during the reign of Queen Mary I in the 16th century. Since then, the Catholic Church has played a significant role in London's religious and cultural landscape. Throughout the years, the Catholic Church in London has faced periods of persecution, including the Reformation and the Penal Laws. Despite these challenges, the Catholic community in London has continued to grow and thrive, with beautiful churches and cathedrals serving as symbols of their faith. Today, the Catholic Church in London is a diverse and vibrant community, welcoming people from all walks of life. With a long and storied history, the Catholic Church continues to be an integral part of London's religious fabric.
London is home to several iconic Catholic churches and cathedrals that serve as important spiritual and cultural centers for the Catholic community. Some of the main Catholic churches and cathedrals in London include: These churches and cathedrals are not only places of worship but also architectural marvels that attract visitors from all over the world. Each one has its own unique history and significance within the Catholic Church in London. Whether you're a local resident or a tourist visiting London, exploring these Catholic churches and cathedrals can provide a glimpse into the rich religious heritage of the city. Westminster Cathedral. Brompton Oratory. St. Etheldreda's Church. St. James's Spanish Place.
The Catholic Church in London plays a crucial role in the community, offering spiritual guidance, support, and outreach programs to people of all backgrounds. In addition to providing regular religious services, the Catholic Church is involved in various charitable initiatives, including food banks, homeless shelters, and healthcare services. Through its schools, hospitals, and social services, the Catholic Church in London contributes to the well-being and development of the local community. The Church also advocates for social justice issues, such as poverty alleviation, immigration reform, and environmental protection. Furthermore, the Catholic Church in London serves as a source of unity and belonging for its members, fostering a sense of community and solidarity among diverse individuals. By promoting inclusivity and compassion, the Catholic Church continues to make a positive impact on the lives of Londoners.
If you're interested in becoming more involved with the Catholic Church in London, there are several opportunities available for participation and engagement. You can attend Mass or other religious services at one of the many Catholic churches and cathedrals in the city. Additionally, you can volunteer your time and talents to support various ministries and outreach programs run by the Catholic Church in London. Whether you have a passion for social justice, education, or community service, there are ways to contribute to the Church's mission of compassion and service. Joining a parish community or participating in faith formation programs can also help you deepen your spiritual connection with the Catholic Church in London. By getting involved and building relationships within the Catholic community, you can strengthen your faith and make a positive impact on others.
