All Hallows by the Tower: London’s Oldest Church & Hidden Historical Gem
Looking for a site that predates the Tower of London and holds nearly 1,400 years of history? All Hallows by the Tower, tucked beside Tower Hill, is the oldest church in the City of London. Whether you’re staying in a hostel in London, a hostel Londres, or an ostello Londra, this church offers layers of Roman, Saxon, and medieval heritage—plus fascinating ties to famous figures.
A Stroll Through History
Founded in AD 675 by the Abbey of Barking, All Hallows by the Tower stands on the remains of a Roman villa, with a mosaic pavement still visible in its crypt. The church survived the Great Fire of London in 1666, thanks to Admiral Penn (father of William Penn, founder of Pennsylvania), who ordered nearby buildings demolished to create a firebreak. Samuel Pepys famously watched the fire from its tower.
During the 16th and 17th centuries, the church served as a temporary resting place for those executed on Tower Hill, including Sir Thomas More and Archbishop Laud. It also boasts American connections: William Penn was baptized here in 1644, and John Quincy Adams, sixth U.S. President, married here in 1797. Though heavily damaged during the Blitz, All Hallows was rebuilt and rededicated in 1957, preserving its Saxon arch and medieval features. [en.wikipedia.org], [historyhit.com], [livinglond…istory.com], [timelesstr…lsteps.com]
What to See and Do
- Saxon Arch: A rare relic from the original stone church, partly made of Roman tiles.
- Roman Pavement: Mosaic flooring from a 2nd-century villa in the crypt.
- Crypt Museum: Artefacts spanning Roman, Saxon, and medieval eras.
- Grinling Gibbons Font Cover: A masterpiece of 17th-century woodcarving.
- Mariners’ Chapel: A tribute to London’s maritime heritage.
- Effigy of Tubby Clayton: Founder of Toc H, a Christian movement born here.
- Historic Memorials: Including links to the Great Fire and World War II. [livinglond…istory.com], [londonxlondon.com], [tripadvisor.com]
Where to Eat and Drink Nearby
- Byward Kitchen & Bar – British classics in a quiet garden setting next to the church.
- Cento Alla Torre – Italian cuisine with authentic flavors.
- Blacklock City – Famous for chops and hearty British fare.
- The India – Monument – Elegant Indian dining.
- Sky Pod Bar – Cocktails with panoramic views of London. [www.byward…andbar.com], [tripadvisor.com]
Staying at NX London Hostel
If you’re at NX London Hostel, you’re perfectly positioned to explore All Hallows by the Tower. The hostel offers:
- Free breakfast and Wi-Fi
- Multilingual staff
- Communal kitchen and lounge
- A lively atmosphere for solo travelers and groups
How to Get to All Hallows by the Tower from NX London Hostel
NX London Hostel Address: 323A New Cross Road, London SE14 6AS
All Hallows Address: Byward Street, London EC3R 5BJ
Directions:
- Walk to New Cross Gate Station (5 mins).
- Take Overground to Canada Water (5 mins).
- Transfer to Jubilee Line to Tower Hill Station (10 mins).
- Walk 3 mins to All Hallows by the Tower.
Total travel time: ~25–30 minutes
Estimated fare: £2.80 with Oyster/contactless. [rome2rio.com]
Tickets & Entry
- Admission: Free
- Opening Hours:
Mon–Fri: 08:00–17:00
Sat–Sun: 10:00–17:00 - Guided Tours: Free most weekdays; private tours £5 per person (pre-booking required). [www.ahbtt.org.uk], [ahbtt.org.uk], [tripomatic.com]
Key Takeaways
- All Hallows by the Tower is London’s oldest church, founded in AD 675.
- Features Roman ruins, Saxon architecture, and a crypt museum.
- Historic ties to the Great Fire, WWII, and figures like William Penn and John Quincy Adams.
- Free to visit and easily accessible from NX London Hostel via Overground and Jubilee Line.
Final Thought
All Hallows by the Tower is a time capsule of London’s layered past. Whether you’re tracing Roman mosaics or standing beneath its Saxon arch, this hidden gem proves that history often hides in plain sight.
