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Southwark Cathedral

Name: Southwark Cathedral
Rating: 4.7

4.7 ·

Step into Southwark Cathedral, a Gothic riverside gem tucked beside London Bridge. Wander its quiet, uncrowded interior to find the Shakespeare memorial before grabbing a bite at nearby Borough Market.

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Reasons to go

Founded as an 11th-century priory but only became a cathedral in 1905
Contains a memorial to Shakespeare, linking it to the nearby Bankside theatre district
Free entry, and set just minutes from Borough Market on London's south bank

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Full description

Southwark Cathedral, formally the Cathedral and Collegiate Church of St Saviour and St Mary Overie, traces its origins to an 11th-century priory and only gained cathedral status in 1905, making it one of London's oldest religious sites despite its relatively recent official title. Its Gothic interior holds a Shakespeare memorial reflecting the playwright's ties to nearby Bankside theatres, and reviewers with a 4.7 rating describe a peaceful, less crowded alternative to the bigger cathedrals across the river.

Free to enter and a short walk from Borough Market and London Bridge, it rewards visitors happy to step slightly off the main tourist track.

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Address

London Brg, London SE1 9DA, UK · The Borough

Website

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Hours

🎫

Booking

Walk-in

Duration

35 min

Best time

morning, lunchtime, afternoon or early evening

Intensity

Moderate walking

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Good to know

Combine it with a visit to Borough Market, just a couple of minutes' walk away
look for the Shakespeare memorial window inside, tying the cathedral to the nearby Globe theatre district
visit in the morning for a quieter, more contemplative experience than the afternoon crowds.

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Reviews

The overall experience was wonderful. Experiencing the songs of Michael Jackson under the glow of candles at Southwark Cathedral was deeply moving. The venue itself was absolutely magnificent. I would definitely attend more Candlelight concerts. Well done to all involved in such a beautiful and moving experience.

Sharmela Thomas

3/5

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