[3] A groundbreaking ceremony, to signify the beginning of construction, was held on 27 August 1955, conducted by church president David O.
[3] The site of the original 34,000 square foot building, located twenty-five miles south of London, was selected in 1952 by McKay and Stayner Richards.
[3] The preliminary plans called for a three-story structure with a perforated aluminum spire, similar to the Oakland California Temple.
In October 1992, Gordon B. Hinckley rededicated the London England Temple, after a two-week public open house.
Surrounding the temple is a forty-room mansion, named the Manor House, ten acres of formal grounds, and a large pond.
Designed by Edward O. Anderson, the temple’s architecture reflects both the cultural heritage of Surrey County.
Notably, the site features several oak trees so old that in 1958 a local paper claimed that they had been planted before 1492 and discovery of the Americas by Christopher Columbus.
[citation needed] Exterior The structure stands four stories tall, constructed with white Portland stone.
The exterior is characterized by a copper-plated spire and a statue of the angel Moroni, each chosen for their symbolic significance and alignment with temple traditions.
One of the most important symbols is the celestial room, which is meant to represent heaven on earth through its beautiful interior decoration and peaceful atmosphere.
[16] The temple is both a place of worship and an architectural landmark in Surrey, consistent with the church's commitment to creating sacred and aesthetically inspiring spaces.
[citation needed] Over the years, the London England Temple has undergone several renovations to preserve its structural integrity, update facilities, and enhance its spiritual and aesthetic appeal.
[18][19] When the London England Temple was announced in 1953, it had an enormous impact on the Latter-day Saint community in Great Britain.
[3] Prior to the temple’s first dedication, a public open house was held from 16 August – 3 September 1958 (excluding Sundays).