London Hidden Gems: St. Dunstan-in-the-East
St. Dunstan-in-the-East is truly a hidden gem—a ruined church tucked away in the very heart of London, down a quiet lane, it feels a million miles (and years) away. The buzz of the city fades when you step into this quiet refuge from the busyness, surrounded by climbing vines and other lush greenery.
The church itself dates to 950 AD and is dedicated to St. Dunstan, advisor to several Anglo-Saxon kings who was eventually elevated to the position of Archbishop of Canterbury.
This original church was destroyed in the Great Fire of London in 1666 and was rebuilt by the famed Sir Christopher Wren in the late 17th century. Wren's design incorporated surviving parts of the old church, including the tower and the outer walls, some of which stand today.
Subsequent renovations were undertaken, but St. Dunstan in the East was badly damaged by bombing, during World War II. Instead of rebuilding yet again, the ruins of the church were preserved as a public garden and peaceful oasis. Flip through the slideshow below to see images from around this gorgeous hidden gem.
How to Get There:
From Monument Station (Circle and District Lines): walk east along Eastcheap Street. Turn right at St. Mary at Hill, then left on St. Dunstan’s Lane.
From Tower Hill Station (Circle and District Lines): walk south to Tower Hill/A100 and turn right. Turn right at Great Tower Street, then left on St. Dunstan’s Lane.
