Hidden amongst the bustling streets of London stands St Andrew by the Wardrobe. Its story is one of resilience a testament to the enduring spirit of faith. Originally known as St Andrew juxta Baynard Castle it stood near a medieval fortress. After 1361 it gained its unique name because of its proximity to the King’s Great Wardrobe. This housed royal stores and ceremonial robes. Both the Wardrobe and the church were tragically lost in the Great Fire of 1666.
St Andrew by the Wardrobe is more than just a place of worship. It’s a living piece of London’s history. Sir Christopher Wren the genius behind many of London’s iconic buildings rebuilt it between 1685 and 1693. Interestingly St Andrew’s was Wren’s last church and his least expensive at just £7060 16s 11d. Much of the money came from a coal tax used for post-fire reconstruction. The parish of St Ann Blackfriars which was destroyed in the same fire was united with St Andrew’s. Two small portions of its churchyard still exist in Ireland Yard and Church Entry.
Throughout its history St Andrew’s has hosted distinguished figures. William Romaine the renowned evangelist served as Rector in the 18th century. So did William Goode who is believed to have founded the City’s first Sunday school. The remains of both men along with that of Isaac Saunders who died during a New Year’s address lie beneath the church. Even John Harding a former Rector became the first Bishop of Bombay. The Church Missionary Society itself was founded in the neighboring rectory.
Famous parishioners add to St Andrew’s rich history. William Shakespeare owned property in Ireland Yard within the parish. He worked nearby at the Blackfriars Playhouse. Other notable parishioners included composer John Dowland playwright Ben Jonson and portrait painter Sir Anthony Van Dyck.
Sadly St Andrew’s was severely damaged during the Blitz of World War II. Only the tower and walls survived. However the church was meticulously reconstructed between 1959 and 1961 to Marshall Sisson’s designs. Today St Andrew’s boasts beautiful internal oak paneling and furnishings. It features a small chapel dedicated to St Ann. The decorated plaster tunnel-vaulted ceiling is a copy of Wren’s original.
Many furnishings came from other Wren churches. The pulpit and font came from St Matthew Friday Street. Stuart royal arms came from St Olave Old Jewry. The weather vane came from St Michael Bassishaw. Two ancient statues stand in the sanctuary a figure of St Andrew circa 1600 and a figure of St Ann holding the Virgin Mary who holds the infant Jesus circa 1500. A small pipe organ built by John Snetzler in 1769 still resides in the gallery.
St Andrew’s remains a vital part of London’s community. It’s the Ward Church for the Ward of Castle Baynard. Its excellent acoustics make it ideal for recitals and lectures. Even today St Andrew by the Wardrobe is a place where history echoes faith endures and the legacy of its past shapes its future. Its connection with Shakespeare and other notable figures makes it truly special. Come step inside and discover a living story.