From rare Tudor manuscripts to secret viewing points, GLT’s Keeley Rodgers heads behind-the-scenes of St Paul’s Cathedral for a unique experience.
As loft and storage spaces go, St Paul’s Cathedral tops the list as I found out on a unique tour recently, heading behind-the-scenes to experience the iconic cathedral in a completely new light.
“It’s a unique opportunity to explore this historic space away from the hustle and bustle of the cathedral floor”, my guide Janet explained. She’s one of the amazing volunteers, identified by their red sashes and friendly smiles, who ensure that visitors don’t just visit St Paul’s Cathedral, but ‘feel it’ and leave buzzing with new information and stories.
Tour guides bring the remarkable history to life
Janet did just that for our tour - taking us through the cathedral’s fascinating history, new insights about the people who have protected it over the years such as St Paul’s Watch. Objects and images bring the story of this brave group of volunteers to life, and tell the story of how they looked after the Cathedral initially during World War One and then later for World War Two.
Who knows what would have become of the Cathedral if it hadn’t have been for this courageous group of people from all walks of life - from architects and academics to businessmen and members of the clergy.
The Treasures Tour, as I experienced, takes you on a tour of the Triforium which is the space that wraps around the top of the building.
Highlights include a look inside the extraordinary 18th century library - the aroma is what hit me the most, the smell of history. There are an impressive 12,500 books lining the floor to ceiling shelves, each with its own story, and brimming with knowledge.
500 Years of William Tyndale’s New Testament
And now, the most important publication in the library, Tyndale’s New Testament, is on display as part of the Treasures Tour. The copy at St Paul’s is one of only three editions in the world and is on show until February 2027 to mark 500 years since what was considered ‘the most dangerous book in Tudor England’ was published.
It is only bought out of conservation a few times a year because of how rare and delicate it is, so it’s a fantastic opportunity to see the first printed English translation of the Bible.
Along from the library is the iconic 88-step Geometric Staircase, which unsurprisingly has been used as a filming location for many notable scenes including two Harry Potter films, and our next stop on the tour was the spectacular viewing point from which you get a completely different perspective down the Nave from above the Great West Doors.
Another highlight was seeing Sir Christopher Wren’s Great Model – created by the architect to show King Charles II his proposed new cathedral. Our guide Janet shared another entertaining story of how she took David Bowie and his family on a similar tour, showing them the Great Model - she even had a photo to share which was a welcome addition!
Views from the outside just as impressive
After the tour, I got my steps in and headed up to the Whispering Gallery for another fantastic view of the Cathedral floor, then climbed a further 117 steps to the Stone Gallery, outside of the dome. Not one to do things by halves, I had to carry on to the Golden Gallery which boasts impressive vistas of London as well as being a significant feat of engineering with its design allowing it to withstand all weather conditions - thankfully the sun was shining for my visit.
Back on the Cathedral floor - with slightly wobbly legs, although was well worth it - I had a different understanding and perspective of St Paul’s, and am already planning my next visit - there’s so much to see!
Group visits and a unique exhibition
Groups of up to 20 can book the exclusive hour-long Treasures Tour, and I’d highly recommend!
A Dangerous Calling: 500 Years of William Tyndale’s New Testament opened on 5th June and runs until 27th February 2027 alongside a programme of events.
As well as the chance to see the publication up close in the library, a digital version will allow visitors to explore the pages more closely on the Cathedral floor, seeing how the text transformed England by giving all people the chance to read the word of God.
For more information on group visits to St Paul’s Cathedral, visit www.stpauls.co.uk/group-visits.
