St Bartholomew-the-Great - Sightseeing, London Landmarks

St Bartholomew-the-Great

West Smithfield, London, EC1A 7DQ
Tel: +44 (0)20 7606 5171
Fax: +44 (0)20 7600 6909

At one time the work place of Benjamin Franklin, St Bartholomew-the-Great is the second oldest church in London, having been founded in 1123 by King Henry I's jester, Rahere.

Following a dream, which featured St Bartholomew, Rahere went on to become an Augustinian monk and was also eventually responsible for the founding of the nearby St Bartholomew's Hospital which is affectionately known as St Bart's. He died in 1143 and his tomb can be found inside the church.

There have been reports that Rahere's ghost has been seen on occasion inside the church. For details of other ghostly sightings in London, see London ghosts.

Just inside the grounds of the hospital stands St Bartholomew-the-Less.

Oh, and Benjamin Franklin! He worked in the printing office in the Lady Chapel.

Opening Times
Monday - Friday 08:30 - 17:00
Saturday 10:30 - 13:30
Sunday 08:00 - 20:00

Nearest Underground (Tube) Station: Barbican