Sacred London

Some of the finest churches, synagogues, mosques and temples. Architectural + decorative beauty plus historical significance.

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Bevis Marks Synagogue

Britain's oldest synagogue, in use since 1701 and still lit by candle for services.

Synagogues

Photo by John Salmon, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Built in 1701 by Sephardi Jews who had returned to England under Cromwell, set back in a courtyard so that it would not front the street. The interior has never been altered: dark oak benches, twelve columns for the tribes of Israel, and seven brass candelabra for the days of the week, which are still lit with candles rather than bulbs. One bench was carried here from the earlier synagogue in Creechurch Lane.

Where
4 Heneage Lane, EC3A 5DQ
Nearest station
Aldgate · 3 min walk

Closed to general visitors while a visitors' centre is built. Services continue, and the synagogue hopes to reopen for tours before the end of 2026.

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Data is compiled from public sources including OpenStreetMap, under the ODbL. Hours change often, so check before making a journey.

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