Great St Mary's Church Tower
About
The University Church, on Senate House Hill facing King's College and the Market Square, doubles as the best viewpoint in the city centre: a 123-step climb up a spiral stair to the top of its tower, looking straight down onto King's College Chapel, the Backs, and the Market Square below. Unlike the chapel itself, there is no advance booking system, just a small admission fee paid on the day, which makes it a reliable fallback plan when King's is closed to visitors or fully booked. The stair is narrow and the climb is real exercise; grippy shoes help.
Photos
Highlights
- ✓The best rooftop view of King's College Chapel and the Backs
- ✓A direct look down onto the Market Square
- ✓No advance booking; pay on the day
- ✓A reliable alternative when King's College Chapel is closed to visitors
Tips
- →Last tower entry is roughly half an hour before the church closes; check current hours before a special trip.
- →Wear grippy, comfortable shoes for the narrow spiral stair.
- →Combine with the Market Square, directly below, and King's Parade for photographs.
Best Season
More Attraction Activities
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Kettle's Yard
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