West End

St Martin in the Fields Church Trafalgar Square

St. Martin-in-the-Fields could be considered to be one of London's most innovative and entertaining churches. Not only are there grand services in a particularly beautiful church, but renowned classical concerts are held here which create an atmosphere in this hallowed sanctuary that is second to none. Some of us have always believed that churches create an ideal setting for concerts of this kind. The spacious echo and sense of something spiritual send the music into orbit.

Left: St. Martin in the Fields seen from the National Gallery - photo by S Worsfold

St. Martin-in-the-Fields is especially distinctive as a result of its Cafe-in-the-Crypt . The first church on this spot was  erected in AD 1222. Apparently the monks from Westminster Abbey allowed their animals to pasture the surrounding fields. However, the present church was designed by the renowned architect James Gibbs and was eventually consecrated in 1726.

The church maintains a fiercely independent Church of England tradition, their mission being to "...honour God, and to enable questioning, open-minded people to discover for themselves the significance of Jesus Christ." 

It holds services in English of course,  and also in Cantonese for the many Chinese-speaking people who come to worship in what is essentially thier local church. 

St. Martins is also known for its commitment to work with the homeless, the "have-nots" and down-and-outs in this part of London.

The memorable concerts in the church include great pieces like Mozart's Eine Kleine Nachtmusik (by candlelight), Vivaldi's Four Seasons which is a perennial favourite, and Bach's Brandenburg Concertos. Assorted chamber orchestras, normally from around London, perform these classics.

If you are free over lunchtime on Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays you will have the chance to listen to the concerts free of charge. I would still recommend though that you go to the evening concerts because of the tremendous atmosphere built up by the dark, brooding interior of the church lit by magical candlelight. The performances are of a very high quality.

Americans will recognise the Church from the outside - it was the model for hundreds of wooden replicas which sprung up all over New England. after settlement by the descendants of the Puritans in 1666.

Nearest Tube station: Charing Cross.
Refreshments available in the unusual and distinctive Cafe in the Crypt.

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