We welcome visitors during the Open House Festival.

St Olave Hart Street is a Great Fire Survivor, damaged in the blitz, the post war restoration of this fascinating building began 75 years ago this year. Described by John Betjeman as a ‘country church in the world of Seething Lane’ the building uniquely blends medieval fabric with Festival of Britain era motifs. Explore the medieval crypt and ‘Pepys’ vestry – both of which survived both the Great Fire and the blitz! Founded nearly 1,000 years ago, this remarkable place is full of equally remarkable stories, some of which we hope to share with you during your visit.

Please note that opening and access arrangements on Saturday 12th September will be slightly different from our other Open House days.

Sunday 13th, Saturday 19th & Sunday 20th September 2026

On these three days St Olave Hart Street will be open for visitors from 12.30pm to 5.30pm. Guided tours of the church will be offered every hour, with the final tour beginning at 4.30pm and concluding at 5.30pm. Self-guided visits are welcome throughout.

Do join us if you are able for our Sung Holy Communion on Sunday 13th and Sunday 20th September from 11am-12pm.

On Saturday 19th September, our bellringers, the University of London Society of Change Ringers, will also be giving bellringing demonstrations. Tickets to visit the belltower are currently fully booked.

Refreshments will be available on all our Open House days and guide books will be for sale.

We very much look forward to welcoming you to St Olave’s during the Open House Festival.