London Photo Gallery - Art Exhibitions & Special Events

St Martin-in-the-Fields at 300

This was the parish church of the Royal Family and the Admiralty, with a location close to the Whitehall where the political action took place. First evidence of a church on this site date from 1222, and the current building was constructed in the 18th century.

Designed by James Gibb in a blend of Baroque and Palladian styles, the church was consecrated in 1726. To put things into context, neighbouring Trafalgar Square was only created in the 1830s.

The crpyt and vaults were cleared in the 1930s and changed for social use, welcoming anyone in need from the homeless to those who missed the last bus of the day. It also served as an air raid shelter during World War II. Today, the crpyt has a commercial space alongside chapel and community spaces.

This is one of a pair of mahogany library chairs for the Royal Box, made by Benjamin Goodison, a royal cabinet maker.

This was the adopted church of the Pearly Kings and Queens, with an annual harvest festival service here every October.

An estimated 80,000 Hong Kongers were living in London in the 1980s. St. Martin's provided space for their community centre which opened in 1987. In 2011, it was renamed the Bishop Ho Ming Wah Association and Community Centre, with Jackie Chan as a guest of honour.

When the church opened in 1726, there were no seats inside and most people had to stand during services. However, there were seats for the royal entourage and some pews could be rented.

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