Quiet London: St Dunstan-in-the-East

I am making a bold opening statement here.  I truly believe that St Dunstan in the East Church Garden is one of the most beautiful quiet places in London. Tucked away behind a small entrance gate, surrounded by the city, high rise buildings and busy London Roads, resides this former church. St Dustan-in-the-East has had an eventful life.  Built originally in 1100 it was badly damaged in the Great Fire of London in 1666.  Between 1695-1701 it was gradually put back together by Sir Christopher Wren with the addition of a tower and steeple.  Two hundred and seventy five years later it was badly damaged  again.  This time during the blitz of the second world war, it was so severely damaged there was not chance putting it back together.  It became unusable as a church, standing in ruins for many years.  In 1967, it was acquired by the City of London who turned it into a public garden, opening it up for all to enjoy.

The moment you enter the garden, a sense of peace is evident.  Half walls and windows remain.  Ivy and other plants grow haphazardly around, and through them.  Dark green Ivy and rusty virginia creeper cling to the stone walls creating a bucolic botanical oasis. The garden has been cleverly planted, but the sense of abandonment remains, creating the sense of a wonderful discovery for all who take the time to visit.

Despite the comings and goings of visitors, there does seem to be a respectful quiet.  Noise is at a minimum and mostly visitors wander around taking pictures and gazing up and through the majestic remains. St Dunstan is a fitting reminder to the resilience and steadfast strength of this city. Fires and war and bombs may fall but London  buildings and its people stand strong.

It is impossible not to take photographs here it is so photogenic.  However I would also suggest, when you have had your fill of taking pictures, take awhile to stop and sit and drink in the atmosphere and the quiet and think of all the events this building has been witness to, or just be, and don’t think at all.

Somewhere this beautiful and this photographed is never going to remain a secret but it does seem to have maintained a quietness which is truly found, only rarely in other places in London. To find somewhere more tranquil  than this hidden garden in the heart of the city would be difficult.

If you are tempted to visit then it is open all year round from 8am to 7pm or dusk, whichever is earlier.

You can read about some of my other favourite quiet London places here.