St. James Garlickhythe, London

Following the devastating Great Fire of London in 1666, Sir Christopher Wren dedicated the remainder of his life to designing churches to replace those lost in the catastrophe. In total, he reconstructed more than 50 churches, and among them is one situated in the Vintry Ward, close to Mansion House tube station. Saint James Garlickhythe earned its unusual name due to its proximity to the area where French ships unloaded wine and garlic for the city. "Hythe" is an Old English term signifying a dock or landing place, and merchants peddled their goods on "Garlick Hill", the very spot where the church now stands.

The initial place of worship was erected at this location during the 12th century and subsequently expanded in 1326. By the 15th century, it had transformed into a collegiate church served by seven chantry priests. After the Great Fire and the subsequent reconstruction, it was rededicated to Saint James, and the local congregation opted to preserve the complete name, despite the fading usage of "hythe".

In 1941, during the Blitz, a bomb penetrated the church's roof but was safely removed before detonation. Post-war, during the restoration phase, the church was discovered to be infested with deathwatch beetles, leading to its closure until 1963.

Today, visitors can appreciate the church's nave with its two narrow aisles and five bays, featuring double rows of Ionic columns, a barrel vault ceiling, and a gallery added in 1714. Of particular note is the exquisite painting "Ascension", created by Andrew Geddes in 1815.