St Mary Aldermary

Fantastic place to have a cup of coffee. Not only a great idea, but also good quality cafe. Must see if you're in the city centre and need to take a break. They also serve some snacks and sandwiches but I haven't tried, will do next time!

I found this place in an article about London's quirkiest coffee shops. The café is located in The Guild Church of Saint Mary Aldermary. Benedictine monks from Christchurch Canterbury Priory are thought to have founded it over 900 years ago. The church was one of many which suffered significant damage during the Great Fire of London in 1668 and so Christopher Wren rebuilt the church in the late 17th century in a gothic style. Since 2011 the Moot community, a new monastic community, run the church and have also developed the Host café.
Sadly I was delayed on my incoming journey and was too late to enjoy a cup of coffee whilst admiring the columns and interior of the church. I was invited in to have a look around the church though. The coffee is said to be provided by local roasters, Mission Coffee Works. Cakes breads and organic soup are also available. All things I’ll enjoy next time I’m in the area.

My Husband and I came here for the first time on valentine's day, they reserved a table for us and put a rose on the table for us, the coffee was lovely and the staff were professional too. The church itself was astonishing and breathtaking, would definitely recommend this place to anyone who wants a different place to have a coffee/tea. We will definitely be visiting again.

Grade I Listed 17th.Century early Gothic Revival church. The square Tower with corner turrets among the most restrained in the City. The naive separated from the aisles by shallow arches supported on white columns, effectively drawing one’s vision toward the spectacular plaster fan-vaulted ceiling. Breathtaking geometry; inspired and uplifting.
A coffee shop with seating located at the end of the western naive smelts effortlessly into the surround.
The coffee just fine, the surround memorable.
An active community, an outreach programme, courses and lectures.
Recommended unhesitatingly.

A lovely church to visit. Check out the wall behind the alter. It's slightly out of line.
Host offering coffee . Monday to friday

The Host Cafe inside the Church offers a unique location for coffee and conversation. Highly recommend a visit, excellent staff, quality coffee and an excellent environment.

Been coming here for years when I need to burn an hour or less waiting for the other half. Repurposing of a historical building with elegant taste without loosing its dignity or relevance to modern society.

Host coffee is amazing!! Great use of space. Brilliant coffee and food. Just go!!