Birmingham Cathedral

Birmingham Cathedral is a Church of England church in the heart of the city. Its full title is the Cathedral Church of St Philip, and it was built to a Baroque design by the architect Thomas Archer between 1709 and 1715. Originally a community church, it was upgraded to Birmingham Cathedral in 1905, becoming the seat of the Bishopric of Birmingham.

There’s plenty to appreciate in the design of the church, with its beautiful and arresting stained-glass windows a particular highlight. Celebrating important Christian events such as the Ascension, the Birth and Crucifixion of Christ, and the Last Judgement, these windows were designed by the important Pre-Raphaelite artist, Edward Burne-Jones.

A walk around the cathedral courtyard will be rewarded with a number of fascinating monuments. The soldier Frederick Gustavus Barnaby, who also flew a hot-air balloon across the English Channel, is commemorated by an obelisk, while there is also a statue by the well-known sculptor Thomas Stirling Lee. A memorial to the people killed in the Birmingham bombings by the IRA in 1974 adds a sombre note to proceedings.

There are regular events held in the cathedral. Enjoy a choral recital, or join with a Come and Sing night. There are also free biblical talks held every Tuesday, while the Birmingham Jazz Festival hosts a number of shows here – check the Live Brum website for details.

Birmingham Cathedral is in the heart of the city, with Victoria Square and the Bullring Shopping Centre just a short walk away. It is near to both New Street and Stone Hill train stations, with pay car parking available at the latter. Buses also stop on Colmore Row.

The cathedral is open every day. Check the official website for information on Sunday services and the opening hours of the gift shop.