St Andrew's Cathedral

St Andrew's Cathedral is the largest cathedral in Singapore and the main church of the Anglican Diocese of Singapore. Its tall white spire rises above a wide green lawn in the Civic District, right next to City Hall MRT station. Entry is free, and visitors are welcome.

The cathedral is an active place of worship with services every week. Here is what to see, the history behind it and how to plan a respectful visit.

History of St Andrew's Cathedral

An earlier church stood on this site from the 1830s. It was damaged by lightning and later taken down. The building you see today was completed in 1861.

The cathedral was built by Indian convict labourers. They used a special plaster known as Madras chunam, made from shell lime, egg white, sugar and water soaked with coconut husk. It gives the walls their smooth, bright white finish.

The cathedral is now a national monument. Its address is 11 St Andrew's Road, Singapore 178959.

What to see at the cathedral

St Andrew's is built in the Gothic Revival style, which looks back to the churches of medieval England. Walk around the outside first, then step inside the cool, quiet nave.

• The spire and pointed arches: typical features of Gothic Revival design.
• The stained-glass windows: colourful windows that glow on a sunny day.
• The long nave: a tall, calm space with rows of pews.
• Memorials and plaques: many plaques inside remember people from the past of Singapore.
• The lawn and grounds: a green open space in the middle of the city, good for photos.

The white walls look especially bright in the morning sun. For a photo of the whole building, step back across the lawn or the road.

How to get there

The cathedral is right next to City Hall MRT station, which is on the East West Line and North South Line. Raffles City shopping centre is just across the road. Read our tourist guide to the MRT if you are new to the trains.

If you are walking from nearby museums, the cathedral is easy to see from Stamford Road and North Bridge Road.

Tips for visiting

This is a working church, so please be respectful while you are inside. These simple tips will help.

• Dress modestly. Shoulders and knees should be covered.
• Keep quiet inside, and switch your phone to silent.
• Avoid sightseeing during services. If you would like to attend a service, you are welcome to join.
• Take photos respectfully and avoid flash.
• Check the official website for opening hours, service times and any guided tours.

The cathedral is especially busy around Christmas and Easter. See our Christmas in Singapore guide if you are visiting in December.

Food and things to do nearby

The cathedral is in the Civic District, home to several museums and historic buildings. The National Gallery Singapore is a short walk away. You can also visit CHIJMES, a former convent, and the Armenian Church, the oldest church in Singapore.

For food, National Kitchen by Violet Oon at the National Gallery serves Peranakan dishes. Raffles City also has many places to eat. Browse all restaurants in City Hall and Clarke Quay. To stay close by, try Swissôtel The Stamford or The Capitol Kempinski Hotel Singapore.

For more heritage sights, see our culture and heritage pages.

FAQs about St Andrew's Cathedral

Is St Andrew's Cathedral free to visit?

Yes, entry is free. Donations are welcome.

Can I attend a service?

Yes. Visitors are welcome at services. Check the official website for current service times and languages.

How old is St Andrew's Cathedral?

The current building was completed in 1861. An earlier church stood on the site before that.

What is the nearest MRT station?

City Hall MRT station is right next to the cathedral.