5 Catholic Mass Experiences Worth Encountering in London
London, a city with a rich tapestry of history and culture, is home to some of the world’s most beautiful and historically significant Catholic churches. From the grandeur of Westminster Cathedral to the serene beauty of the Brompton Oratory, each church offers a unique glimpse into the spiritual and architectural heritage of the city. In this blog post, we will explore five of the best Catholic churches in London that are worthy of visiting for mass and prayer. We highlight their history, architectural beauty, and spiritual significance.
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1. Westminster Cathedral
Address: 42 Francis Street, Westminster, London SW1P 1QW
History: Westminster Cathedral, not to be confused with the Anglican Westminster Abbey, is the mother church of the Catholic Church in England and Wales. Construction began in 1895 and was completed in 1903. However, due to the laws of the Catholic Church of the time, it was not officially consecrated for another seven years on June 28, 1910. Today, it stands as a monument to the revival of Catholicism in England and is renowned for its distinctive Byzantine architecture.
It was the first Catholic cathedral built in England after the Reformation, opening its doors in 1903. The cathedral also served as a place of refuge during World War II, with its crypts used as shelters for those seeking safety from air raids.
Highlights:
- Byzantine Architecture: The cathedral’s striking exterior, made from red and white brick, and its magnificent interior with mosaics and marble columns are prime examples of the Byzantine Revival style.
- The Great Bell Tower: At 273 feet high, it offers panoramic views of London for those willing to climb its steps.
- The Chapels: Each dedicated to different saints, these chapels are adorned with intricate mosaics and artworks, providing a tranquil space for prayer and meditation.
The Cathedral houses several saint relics, including the remains of St. John Southworth, a Catholic martyr executed during the reign of King James II. His remains are kept in the Chapel of St George and the English Martyrs inside the cathedral.
Reflections from our visit to Westminster Cathedral
In 1895, the Cathedral was dedicated to the Most Precious Blood of Our Lord Jesus Christ—referenced by a Latin dedication above the portal arch—and that inscription caught our attention when we saw the church building from across the street.
Upon our visit, we admired the intricate marble designs adorning the cathedral’s interior. The church houses an impressive collection of artwork and relics, including paintings by notable artists such as William Morris and Dante Gabriel Rossetti.
Historic Events at Westminster Cathedral
A few historic events occurred here as well. On May 28, 1982, Pope John Paul II celebrated mass here.
On St. Andrews Day, November 30, 1995, Queen Elizabeth was present at Choral Vespers, and this marked the first participation of the Queen in a Roman Catholic church in Great Britain.
Another historic Catholic mass was celebrated in London by another pope on September 18, 2010. This marked Pope Benedict XVI’s visit.
In recent times, during the Covid pandemic and the banning of public celebrated mass, Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Carrie Symonds were wed at the cathedral.
Westminster Cathedral Information
Mass Service Times: https://westminstercathedral.org.uk/spiritual-life/mass-and-offices/
Church Website: https://westminstercathedral.org.uk/
2. The Brompton Oratory
Address: Brompton Road, Knightsbridge, London SW7 2RP
History: Officially known as The Church of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, the Brompton Oratory was founded in 1884. Its founder, Father Frederick William Faber, wanted to create a grand church that would rival the great cathedrals of Europe. The church’s construction took over a decade, with multiple architects and designers involved in bringing Faber’s vision to life.
Today, the Brompton Oratory (also known as the London Oratory) continues to stand as a testament to the dedication and talent of its creators. It is one of the largest Catholic churches in London, famous for its Italian Baroque style, inspired by the Church of the Gesù in Rome.
Highlights:
- Italian Baroque Architecture: The church’s facade and interior are a testament to the grandeur of Baroque design, with its rich decorations and detailed sculptures.
- The High Altar: An impressive marble altar, it is a focal point of the church, surrounded by stunning frescoes and sculptures.
- Music and Choir: The Oratory is renowned for its sacred music, and a choir performs at the 11 a.m. Mass every Sunday, enhancing the spiritual experience.
The Brompton Oratory, also known as the Church of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, is a stunning architectural masterpiece in South Kensington. This Roman Catholic church draws visitors worldwide with its beautiful Baroque style and rich history.
If you enjoy looking at impressive church architecture, you’ll want to plan a stop here. Inside, you’ll see breathtaking design and an amazing interior. The elaborate marble columns and stunning frescoes make this church a must-see for any art or architecture enthusiast.
Reflections from our visit to Brompton Oratory
The Brompton Oratory has an active music program that presents stunning liturgical music. We listened to choral music on the Sunday at 11 a.m. Solemn Latin church service – the sound was heavenly. The choral sound was so beautiful. When they started singing, we felt we could reach out and touch the notes. The sound wafted through the air in a very reverberant space.
We found the 11 a.m. The Solemn Latin Mass is a hybrid between a Traditional Latin Mass and the modern Novus Ordo, though it leaned much more towards the Tridentine style. The choir chanted the Asperges Me as mass commenced. There was a memorial acclamation during the Eucharistic Prayer, which is not part of the Traditional Latin liturgy. The London Oratory also offers the Traditional Latin Mass on Sundays at 9 a.m. and services in English.
The church itself was reminiscent of some larger churches in Rome – large statues, many side altars – I thought one of the best masses we could have attended while traveling—a very beautiful Catholic church service.
If you’re looking for a holy and reverent Catholic mass in London, we recommend visiting the London Oratory and Westminster Cathedral. It is an inspiring space for prayer to the blessed sacrament.
London Oratory Information
Mass Service Times: https://www.bromptonoratory.co.uk/regular-mass-service-times
Church Website: https://www.bromptonoratory.co.uk/#about
Watch our video of Westminster Cathedral and the London Oratory
3. St. George’s Cathedral, Southwark
Address: Cathedral House, Westminster Bridge Rd, London SE1 7HY, UK
History: St. George’s Cathedral is the mother church of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Southwark. It was opened in 1848, destroyed during World War II, and subsequently rebuilt, reopening in 1958. Its history reflects the resilience of the Catholic community in London.
Highlights:
- Gothic Revival Architecture: The cathedral’s design, with its pointed arches and ribbed vaults, pays homage to the Gothic style, albeit with a modern twist.
- The Stained Glass Windows: These vibrant windows depict scenes from the life of St. George and other saints, casting colorful light into the church interior.
- Memorial to WWII Victims: A poignant reminder of the cathedral’s history, this memorial honors those who lost their lives during the bombings.
さえぼー, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Inside St. George’s Cathedral, the atmosphere is tranquil. The stained glass windows add a vibrancy of color. Above your head are ornate ceilings with tombs and chapels throughout the cathedral. Pamphlets provide historical information about the church, which was rebuilt following bombings during World War II. The church is located in the city’s bustling heart and close to the Imperial War Museum.
St. George’s Cathedral Information
Mass Service Times: https://www.stgeorgescathedral.org.uk/services/
Church Website: https://www.stgeorgescathedral.org.uk/
4. St. Etheldreda’s Church
Address: 14 Ely Place, Holborn, London EC1N 6RY
History: St. Etheldreda’s, dating back to 1251, is the oldest Catholic church in England and was originally part of the Ely Palace Chapel. It has a rich history, surviving the Reformation by serving various roles before being restored to Catholic worship in 1879.
Highlights:
- Medieval Architecture: As one of the few surviving structures from Edward I’s reign, its architecture offers a rare glimpse into England’s medieval past.
- Stained Glass Windows: The church features some of the oldest stained glass windows in the country, dating back to the 15th century.
- Tranquil Atmosphere: Nestled in a quiet courtyard, it offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.
Diliff, CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
St. Etheldreda’s, London’s oldest Catholic Church, is tucked away on a quaint alleyway. The ancient church offers stained glass windows and awe-inspiring stonework that has stood the test of time since 1250. Each colorful pane of glass tells a story; each stone holds a secret of the bygone eras. A visit here is an intimate encounter with London’s sacred past, a moment to feel part of the centuries-old tapestry of this vibrant city.
St. Etheldreda Church Information
Mass Service Times: https://www.stetheldreda.co.uk/masstimes
Church Website: https://www.stetheldreda.co.uk/
5. Our Lady of the Assumption and St Gregory
Address: Warwick Street, Soho, London W1B 5LZ
History: This church has a unique place in London’s Catholic history, being one of the first churches granted legal recognition after the Catholic Emancipation Act of 1829. Its current building was consecrated in 1790, standing on the site of a former chapel attached to the Portuguese Embassy.
Highlights:
- Baroque Interior: The church’s interior is beautifully decorated with Rococo-style plasterwork, creating a serene and uplifting environment for worship.
- Historical Significance: It played a crucial role in the Catholic history of England, symbolizing a new era of religious tolerance.
- Community Focus: Known for its welcoming congregation and active community outreach, it embodies the spirit of faith in action.
Our Lady of the Assumption and Saint Gregory is nestled in the heart of London’s vibrant Soho district. You’ll discover a sanctuary pulsating with history and charm. Once a humble chapel for royal worshippers and literary giants, this hidden gem is a prayerful place where you can seek some tranquil time from the adventures outside.
Our Lady of Assumption and St. Gregory Church Information
Church Website and Mass Times: https://warwickstreet.org.uk/
Listen to our podcast episode highlighting London churches
Closing Thoughts – Catholic Churches In London Worthy of Visiting For Mass and Prayer
Each of these churches, with their rich histories and architectural beauty, offers a unique window into the spiritual heart of London. Whether you’re drawn to the grandeur of Westminster Cathedral, the serene beauty of the Brompton Oratory, or the historical significance of St. Etheldreda’s, visiting these churches to celebrate Catholic mass in London provides a profound insight into the city’s Catholic heritage.
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