St Giles In the Fields Last Judgement Carving

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A vivid wooden carving of the Last Judgement dominates the west entranceway of St Giles in the Fields Church, situated conveniently near Centre Point in London. Perched above the main western gateway into the churchyard stands a stone replica of this remarkable carving, its 1687 date proudly displayed for all to see. The carving itself is an intricate depiction of nude figures, skeletons, angels, and cherubs, each one carefully crafted to convey a sense of drama and urgency. Interestingly, St Giles in the Fields Church and its adjacent Angel pub served as the final destination for condemned prisoners on their way to Tyburn, where they would meet their fate by hanging. It is this association that has led to the phrase 'to be on the wagon', meaning to abstain from drinking - a reference to the last drink being consumed before meeting one's demise at Tyburn.