London Brass Rubbing Centre: Explore History and Art, a Great Family-Friendly Spot in London

Traveling to London with kids? The London Pass recommends a great family-friendly spot where you can learn about history and try brass rubbing—the London Brass Rubbing Centre.

Brass rubbing is a method of manually copying the surface of engravings or stone carvings. When we were kids, we used a pencil to rub over a coin covered with a piece of white paper—that’s one of the simplest forms of rubbing. At the London Brass Rubbing Centre, you and your child can choose your favorite design from over 100 brass replicas and create a souvenir you'll treasure for a lifetime.

Located in the famous St Martin-in-the-Fields church, the London Brass Rubbing Centre opened in 1975. It aims to let visitors experience this popular Victorian-era British pastime, help preserve the tradition of brass rubbing, protect the brasses, and develop education about brasses and brass rubbing.

Brass rubbing is the art of making an impression from church brasses, usually using wax on very thin paper; the indentation appears white, revealing the image of the brass below. The replicas at the London Brass Rubbing Centre include medieval knights in armor, elegantly dressed ladies, St George and the Dragon, William Shakespeare, and more. No matter what interests you, there’s a historical figure template waiting for you to turn into a fine work of art.

Image source: St Martin-in-the-Fields

After rubbing, you can take the opportunity to visit St Martin-in-the-Fields church. Built between 1721 and 1726, the church has a long history with the British royal family and is also one of London’s main venues for classical music performances. It hosts numerous concerts each year, including choral, orchestral, and chamber music. In addition, the church holds various lectures, exhibitions, and worship services, especially during holidays and Easter.

Image source: St Martin-in-the-Fields

The church’s crypt houses a café, a popular spot for Londoners to meet and relax. You can also enjoy a cup of tea and soak in the relaxed, authentic atmosphere.

Image source: St Martin-in-the-Fields

Address: St Martin-in-the-Fields Church, Trafalgar Square, London WC2

Opening hours: Mon–Wed 10am–7pm; Thu–Sat 10am–8:45pm; Sun 11am–6pm

Ticket price: £4.50; free with The London Pass.