St Paul's Cathedral Climb: Worth It?

The climb to the top of St Paul's is a proper workout: 528 steps that get narrower and steeper as you go. You'll pass the Whispering Gallery first (great acoustics, decent views), then continue up to the Stone Gallery and finally the Golden Gallery, which sits right at the base of the dome. Expect 360-degree views over London that beat most paid observation decks. It's sweaty, can feel claustrophobic in the tighter sections, and the stairs are stone and unforgiving on the knees. The whole thing takes 30-45 minutes depending on how often you stop to catch your breath.

Best time to go is weekday mornings right after opening, especially in spring or autumn when the light is good and crowds are thinner. Summer gets hot and busy; winter can be grey but you'll often have the upper levels almost to yourself. Expect to pay around £25-£35 for a standard ticket that includes the climb – combo tickets with other London sights push it higher. It's not cheap but the experience feels more authentic than most tourist traps.

Pick the full climb to the Golden Gallery if you're reasonably fit; the views are noticeably better. Skip the audio guide if you're short on time – the views and building itself tell the story. Wear proper shoes with grip and avoid backpacks that won't fit in the narrow passages.