St James Garlickhythe is a historic Church of England parish located in the City of London, on Garlick Hill near the Thames. Known as “Wren’s Lantern” due to its abundance of windows, the church was rebuilt by Sir Christopher Wren after being destroyed in the Great Fire of London in 1666. Its name originates from “Garlickhythe,” referring to a medieval garlic trading site near the river landing.
The church dates back to Anglo-Saxon times and is first recorded in a will between 1096 and 1115. It has deep historical ties, including being the burial site of six Lord Mayors and holding some of England’s oldest parish registers, starting in 1535. The church features Baroque architecture and a spire possibly designed by Nicholas Hawksmoor.
St James Garlickhythe is notable for its connection to City livery companies, its role in the pilgrims’ route to Santiago de Compostela. Today, it hosts traditional services using the Book of Common Prayer and houses the Royal Jubilee Bells cast for Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee.
 
Another curiosity is “Jimmy Garlick”  a naturally mummified body discovered in the 1830s. The mummy was found during excavation work and was initially believed to be from the 18th century. It was put on public display for many years, attracting visitors who paid to see it. The mummy is now no longer displayed and is stored in the church crypt. Legends suggest that Jimmy Garlick haunts the church, possibly due to his remains being displayed rather than buried with dignity. Carbon dating indicates he died between 1641 and 1801