“Faith is an unseen thread that brings us closer together.”
– mgb –
Most Filipinos are Roman Catholic devotees, and this strong faith remains evident among the large Filipino community in the UK. The strong faith that keeps traditions alive, even in a foreign land. One of the most significant upcoming religious observances is Holy Week 2025, during which many Filipino Catholics follow the tradition of visiting (at least) seven churches—a practice known as Visita Iglesia—while some, though rare, visit 14 churches as part of their devotion.
What is Visita Iglesia?
Visita Iglesia is a Catholic tradition observed during Lent, particularly on Holy Thursday, where devotees visit multiple churches, at least 7, to reflect on the Passion of Christ. The visits often include prayers and meditations, offering an opportunity for spiritual renewal and a closer bond with God. It is a meaningful pilgrimage that allows deepening of faith while honouring the Stations of the Cross.
Below are the Catholic Churches in London that Filipinos can visit observing Visita Iglesia in UK. This route is designed to be completed comfortably within a day.
1. Westminster Cathedral, Victoria St
You can start your Visita Iglesia in UK by visiting first the mother church of the Catholic Church in England and Wales. It is known for its Byzantine architecture and the Great West Door mosaics. Its striking red-and-white striped brick exterior and towering campanile make it a unique landmark in London. Inside, the cathedral is adorned with stunning mosaics, intricate marble work, and a grand high altar. The Great West Door features impressive mosaics that depict Christ in Majesty, welcoming visitors into this spiritual and architectural wonder.
Take your 3D tour here: 3D Westminster Cathedral
Address: Westminster Cathedral, Victoria St, London SW1P 1LT, United Kingdom
2. Catholic Church of the Immaculate Conception, Mayfair
Also known as Farm Street Church, is a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture, built between 1844 and 1849. Its intricate stonework, soaring arches, and magnificent stained-glass windows create a striking visual experience. The church is beautifully adorned with religious paintings and sculptures, both historic and contemporary. During services, different styles and genres of sacred music are played or sung, including traditional hymns, choral pieces, and contemporary religious compositions. Visitors can expect a richly decorated altar, a peaceful atmosphere for prayer, and a deep sense of history tied to the Jesuit tradition. Distance from Westminster Cathedral, London: 1.6 miles (2.5 km), 11 mins drive.
Address: Mayfair, 114 Mount St, London W1K 3AH, United Kingdom
3. Catholic Church of Saint James, Spanish Pl
The Church of St. James in London is a magnificent Neo-Gothic church in England, completed in 1890. Its grand design features pointed arches, intricate stone carvings, and stunning stained-glass windows that create a sense of reverence and beauty. The richly decorated interior showcases religious paintings, sculptures, and an impressive altar, enhancing the church’s spiritual atmosphere. Visitors can also experience a different styles and genres of sacred music played or sung during services, including traditional hymns, choral pieces, and contemporary religious compositions adding to the solemnity of worship. During Holy Week 2025, the church will offer special liturgical celebrations, allowing visitors to witness deeply moving ceremonies that reflect the passion, death, and resurrection of Christ. Distance from Catholic Church of the Immaculate Conception 0.9 miles (1.4 km), 8 mins drive.
Address: Spanish Pl, George St, London W1U 3QY, United Kingdom
4. Church of Notre Dame de France, Leicester Pl
“Notre Dame de France is a parish community that evangelises in words and actions.”
The Church of Notre Dame de France RC is one of the beautiful Catholic churches in London, known for its unique circular design and serene atmosphere. Originally built in the 1860s and later reconstructed after World War II, the church has modernist artwork, including murals by renowned artist Jean Cocteau. Inside, visitors will find a blend of traditional and contemporary religious art, creating a space that inspires reflection and faith.
As part of Visita Iglesia in the UK, this church offers a meaningful stop for those observing Holy Week 2025, with special liturgical celebrations that allow visitors to engage in prayer and devotion while experiencing the rich heritage of Catholicism in London. Distance from Catholic Church of Saint James 1.8 miles (2.8km) 11 mins drive.
Address: Church of Notre Dame de France RC, 5 Leicester Pl, London WC2H 7BX, United Kingdom
5. St. Patrick’s RC Church, Soho
A vibrant and welcoming parish in the heart of Soho, St. Patrick’s Catholic Church has been serving the community since the 18th century. Originally built in the late 1700s, the church has undergone extensive renovations over the years while maintaining its historic charm. Known for its strong outreach programs, it provides support to the homeless and marginalized. The church interior is beautifully designed, giving a peaceful retreat amidst the bustling Soho district. Distance from Church of Notre Dame de France 0.5 miles (0.8km) 4 mins drive.
Address: St. Patrick’s RC Church, Soho, 21A Soho Square, London W1D 4NR, United Kingdom
6. Corpus Christi Catholic Church, Maiden Ln, London
Corpus Christi Catholic Church is the most central Roman Catholic Church in London.
Built in 1874 as an act of reparation for sins against the Blessed Sacrament, Corpus Christi holds a significant place in Catholic history. It has inspired beloved hymns like Sweet Sacrament Divine and has been home to many renowned sermons. Known as the Actors’ Church, it provides a spiritual home for Catholic performers in Covent Garden and the West End, while also serving as the London base of the Catholic Police Guild.
For those planning a Visita Iglesia in the UK, Corpus Christi Catholic Church is conveniently located near other historic churches, making it an ideal stop. Distance from St. Patrick’s RC Church, Soho 0.7 miles (1.1km) 5 mins drive.
Address: Corpus Christi Catholic Church, 1-5 Maiden Ln, London WC2E 7NB, United Kingdom
7. St. Etheldreda’s RC Church, Ely Place
One of the oldest and most beautiful Catholic churches in London. The building is one of only two surviving in London from the reign of Edward I. It is dedicated to Etheldreda, the Anglo-Saxon saint who founded the monastery at Ely in 673. The church is renowned for its breathtaking stained-glass windows, which fill the interior with a kaleidoscope of colours when illuminated by sunlight. Its historic crypt has witnessed centuries of religious devotion and remains a place of quiet reflection. Distance from St. Patrick’s RC Church, Soho 1 miles (1.6km) 7 mins drive.
Take your virtual tour here: St. Etheldreda RC
Address: St. Etheldreda’s RC Church, Farringdon, 14 Ely Pl, London EC1N 6RY, United Kingdom
8. St. Peter’s Italian Catholic Church, Clerkenwell Rd
Opened in 1863, it was at the time, the only church in Britain designed in the Roman basilican style. Church goers feel a tranquillity and one could spend hours there, just praying and admiring the beautiful artwork. Although it has strong ties to the Italian community, St. Peter’s is welcoming to individuals from all backgrounds. Distance from St. Etheldreda’s RC Church, Ely Place 0.5 miles (0.8km) 5 mins drive.
Address: St. Peter’s Italian Catholic Church, 136 Clerkenwell Rd, London EC1R 5DL, United Kingdom
9. St Mary Moorfields, Eldon St.
St. Mary Moorfields is a Roman Catholic church located in Eldon Street near Moorgate, in the heart of the City of London. This church holds the distinction of being the only Catholic church within the historical boundaries of the City of London. Originally founded in the early 18th century, it is a place of rich history and spiritual significance, offering a peaceful space for worship and reflection.
As the only Catholic church in the city, it serves as an essential point of connection for Filipinos in the UK, especially during the Holy Week of 2025, providing a place for prayer, reflection, and community during this sacred time. Whether you are a long-time parishioner or visiting for the first time, St. Mary Moorfields offers a welcoming environment for Catholics in this busy district, with services and events that cater to the diverse community of worshippers, including Filipinos looking to mark Holy Week in London. Distance from St. Peter’s Italian Catholic Church, Clerkenwell Rd 1.4 miles (2.2km) 13 mins drive.
Address: St Mary Moorfields, 4-5 Eldon St, City of London, London EC2M 7LS, United Kingdom
No matter the size or grandeur of the church—whether it is a royal’s cathedral or a simple chapel—what truly matters in this Visita Iglesia 2025 is the sincerity of your devotion. Each church, big or small, offers a sacred space for prayer and reflection, allowing you to deepen your faith and connection with God. The essence of this tradition is not about the appearance of the place but the heartfelt devotion you bring as you journey through each stop.
I have carefully selected churches that are close to each other, making it easier for you to plan your Visita Iglesia 2025 without long travel times. This allows for a smoother and more reflective journey, giving you more time for prayer and devotion. To help you navigate your route, I have also included the distance between each church, based on Google Maps, giving you an idea of which one to visit next. And for the most current information on Mass times and any special services, it’s advisable to contact the church directly. Whether you are exploring historic landmarks or hidden gems, this guide ensures a meaningful and convenient Holy Week pilgrimage in the UK.
To give you a better understanding of the routes you’ll be taking, we’ve included a visual representation of your journey through Google Maps – Click here to learn more.
Other interesting church in UK
1. What is the oldest Catholic church in UK?
St. Martin’s Church is part of the Canterbury World Heritage Site and holds the distinction of being the oldest church in England still in use for its original purpose. While much of the current structure dates from later periods, visitors can still see Roman bricks in the nave wall, repurposed from nearby Roman sites, as well as the remains of a Roman tomb incorporated into the building. The church features a blend of Roman and Saxon architecture, with ancient brickwork and medieval stonework still visible today. Inside, visitors will find a 12th-century font, thought to have been used for royal baptisms, and a peaceful churchyard rich in history. St. Martin’s offers an intimate and reflective atmosphere, making it a meaningful stop for pilgrims and history enthusiasts alike. This historic church offers a deeply evocative and fascinating glimpse into England’s early Christian heritage, making it a truly must-visit site for history and faith seekers.
2. What is the most beautiful church in UK?
Westminster Abbey attracts many visitors, both for its strong connection to the royal family and its reputation as one of the most beautiful religious buildings in the UK. Its majestic Gothic architecture, meticulously stained-glass windows, and amazing interior has been admired by every visitor. Its high ceilings, grand altar adorned with gold, and historical tombs make it one of the most iconic and impressive churches in the country.
The Abbey is also home to the Coronation Chair, used in every British coronation since 1308. Every corner of the Abbey is steeped in history, art, and spirituality, justifying its reputation as the most beautiful church in UK and must visit destination in UK.
3. What is the Roman Catholic church in England and Wales?
Westminster Cathedral, also known as the Metropolitan Cathedral of the Most Precious Blood is the biggest Roman Catholic in UK. It can accommodate 3000 people.
4. What is the main Catholic church in UK?
Westminster Cathedral is the mother of all Catholic churches in UK.
5. Which church in UK does Royal Family usually visit?
Westminster Abbey and also home to the Coronation Chair, used in every British coronation since 1308.
6. What Catholic church in UK offers Filipino Mass?
- Our Lady of Holy Souls Church
- Our Lady of Sorrow Catholic Church
- Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church
- Immaculate Mary Catholic Church
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