Remember the Great Fire of London. St Andrew Undershaft stands as a testament to resilience. This church has stood here since 1147. Imagine London ablaze. Yet, St Andrew Undershaft remained untouched.
St Andrew Undershaft’s story is unique. Its name is a curious one. It comes from a maypole. This pole was once taller than the church itself. Locals called it “Under Shaft”. The name stuck.
The present St Andrew Undershaft building dates to 1532. It’s a rare City of London church. It survived both the Great Fire and the Blitz. Many other landmarks were destroyed.
Inside St Andrew Undershaft, history whispers. Look for the monument to John Stow. Stow was a chronicler of London. He is buried here. His monument features a quill pen. The Lord Mayor replaces it every three years. This honors Stow’s work.
St Andrew Undershaft boasts other notable features. The tower has a peal of six bells. They have been there since 1597. The organ dates back to 1696. It has been enhanced over the centuries. It has been awarded a Grade I historic organ certificate.
Many notable people are associated with St Andrew Undershaft. Hans Holbein the Younger may be buried here. Several Lord Mayors of London have memorials here.
But there is a sad detail too. Once St Andrew Undershaft had a large stained-glass window. It was installed in the 17th century. The Baltic Exchange bombing destroyed it in 1992.
Today, St Andrew Undershaft is a Grade I listed building. St Helen’s Bishopsgate administers it. Its architecture is Perpendicular style.
St Andrew Undershaft faces Leadenhall Street. The tower is off-centre. It creates a distinctive silhouette. The nave and aisle add to the stepped effect.
Though often closed to the public, St Andrew Undershaft remains beautiful. It stands as a reminder of London’s past. It has survived fire and war. It is a symbol of the city’s enduring spirit. St Andrew Undershaft is a gem. It is a survivor in the heart of London.