Birmingham Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral Church of Saint Philip, is an Anglican cathedral on Colmore Row in the city centre. Thomas Archer designed it in the English Baroque style, and it was consecrated in 1715 as a parish church before becoming a cathedral in 1905. Inside, look for the four Pre-Raphaelite stained-glass windows designed by Edward Burne-Jones, including three around the altar. The cathedral is free to enter, and its grounds offer a quiet place to pause amid the city streets.
From parish church to cathedral
Designed by Warwickshire architect Thomas Archer, St Philip’s was built as a parish church and consecrated in 1715. Birmingham was still a growing town at the time. In 1905, after the Diocese of Birmingham was formed, the church became the city’s cathedral.
The building’s English Baroque design is visible in its interior details, including plasterwork and gilded decoration. Its scale is relatively modest, so a short visit is enough to see the main features.
The Burne-Jones windows
The cathedral’s best-known artworks are four stained-glass windows designed by Edward Burne-Jones, the Pre-Raphaelite artist. William Morris & Company made the glass. Three windows are in the apse behind the altar; the fourth is in the baptistry.
Take time to look at the colours and detail in the glass, then notice how the windows sit within the cathedral’s Baroque interior. Explanatory boards help visitors understand what they are seeing.
A place of worship and remembrance
Birmingham Cathedral remains a place of worship, and visitors of all faiths and backgrounds are welcome. Services and special events, including concerts, also take place here. If you visit during worship, be considerate of those attending.
Outside, a memorial commemorates people murdered in the 1974 Birmingham pub bombings. It is a place for reflection; allow time to pause there respectfully.
Tours and the grounds
Free guided tours are held on selected dates, including some Mondays and Thursdays. They cover the cathedral’s history and how St Philip’s became a cathedral. Check the cathedral website before travelling, as tour availability and times should be confirmed there.
The grounds are open to visitors and provide a place to sit near the busy city centre. The cathedral is at Cathedral Square on Colmore Row, a short walk from Birmingham’s main stations.
Perguntas frequentes
Is Birmingham Cathedral free to enter?
Yes, entry is free. Donations are welcome.
How long do you need at Birmingham Cathedral?
Allow about 10 to 15 minutes to walk around the cathedral. You may want longer for a guided tour or time in the grounds.
What should I see inside Birmingham Cathedral?
Look for the four stained-glass windows designed by Edward Burne-Jones, the Baroque interior and its plasterwork.
Are there guided tours at Birmingham Cathedral?
Free half-hour guided tours take place on selected Mondays and Thursdays. Check the cathedral website for current dates and times.
