Church Of St Michael Paternoster Royal

The Church of St Michael Paternoster Royal, built between 1686 and 1694 with the tower completed in 1713 by Sir Christopher Wren, is located on College Street in London. The church was damaged during World War II and underwent restoration, which included internal alterations at the west end. The structure is a simple compartment, now featuring four windows on both the north and south sides, and has a cove to a flat ceiling.

The south-west tower has a modern lobby to the east and offices on several floors to the north. The main elevations are made of Portland stone, showcasing five round-arched windows on the south side, with a corniced doorway beneath the western opening. The main cornice is topped with a high blocking and a balustrade. The west front mirrors this with two bays, featuring doorways and lamp brackets above. The east front is constructed of red brick and stone, with three windows and a central attic that includes a circular window flanked by consoles. The low vestry has been rebuilt, and the north front also combines brick and stone.

The tower continues the treatment of the adjoining elevations, culminating in a short stage with circular windows. The belfry openings are mullioned and corniced, and the main entablature is topped by a pierced parapet with four urns. An octagonal stone lantern, designed in three stages with Ionic columns at the base, is crowned by a weather vane.

Inside, the church features a plain interior with some decorative mouldings on the ceiling. There is a modern west gallery and wainscot, with east doorcases that are largely or wholly renewed. Notable original features include a good reredos, pulpit, composite lectern, two sword rests, a hat stand, and carved figures of Moses and Aaron. A large brass chandelier and wall monuments add to the interior, along with a later 19th-century font made of coloured marbles and an organ case that is at least partly original.