St Olave's Church

St Olave's Church was a medieval church building located on Tooley Street in Southwark, closely tied to the area's history. The original structure was demolished in 1928 and replaced by St Olaf House, which now functions as part of London Bridge Hospital.

The church appears in the Domesday Book of 1086, documenting its existence at the time of the Norman Conquest of England. It remained an important religious site in Southwark for centuries until its demolition in 1928.

The church was dedicated to Saint Olav, a Norwegian king whose name lives on in the local street name Tooley Street. Visitors can still sense the historical connection between this Scandinavian saint and the Southwark neighborhood today.

The site is now a modern hospital, so visitors should be aware this is an active medical facility in daily use. The location is well served by public transport and the Tooley Street area is easily explored on foot.

The church founded St Olave's Grammar School, an institution that continues to teach students to this day. It also established charitable trusts that have continuously supported local education and care for elderly residents since their creation.

Location: London Borough of Southwark

GPS coordinates: 51.50650,-0.08650

Latest update: December 10, 2025 16:20