London - St Mary-le-Bow Church

The City church of St Mary-le-Bow, with its famous bells, occupies a special place in the affections of Londoners. To be a genuine Cockney, it is said, you must have been born within the sound of Bow Bells. The church, originally a Norman foundation and one of London's oldest stone churches, was rebuilt by Wren between 1670 and 1683. It suffered heavy damage during World War II and was re-dedicated after extensive restoration in 1964. Its most notable feature is the 73m/221ft high steeple containing the bells which is topped by a weathervane nearly 3m/9ft high. Bricks dating from the Roman occupation of Britain may be seen in the 11th century crypt.