St Anselm and St Cecilia

Ascending high above the bustling streets of Holborn, the Church of St Anselm and St Cecilia stands as a testament to faith and resilience. Don’t let its unassuming exterior fool you! This Roman Catholic church, nestled at 70 Lincoln’s Inn Fields, holds within its walls a captivating tale spanning over a century. The Church of St Anselm and St Cecilia emerged from the ashes of the old Sardinian Embassy Chapel, demolished in the early 20th century to make way for the grand Kingsway. Consecrated in 1909, this house of worship, designed by the talented Frederick Walters, quickly became a spiritual haven for the local community. But did you know that the Church of St Anselm and St Cecilia we see today isn’t quite the same as the one built in 1909? Around the mid-20th century, the church underwent significant renovations. Stanley Kerr Bate, a renowned architect of the time, was commissioned to add a south aisle, expanding the church’s capacity and grandeur. Bate also oversaw the reconstruction of the facade, giving the Church of St Anselm and St Cecilia its present-day appearance. As you admire its blend of architectural styles, remember the stories etched into the very fabric of this sacred space. The Church of St Anselm and St Cecilia stands as a beacon of enduring faith, a testament to London’s ever-evolving narrative.