Westminster Cathedral, on Victoria Street near Victoria station, is the Roman Catholic mother church for England and Wales. Its red-and-white banded brick exterior and Neo-Byzantine design set it apart from the Gothic landmarks nearby. Inside, look for marble columns, colourful mosaics and side chapels, each with its own character. Entry to the cathedral is free; you can also take a lift up the bell tower for views across London. Allow time to explore quietly, as this is an active place of worship.
A Catholic cathedral near Victoria
Westminster Cathedral stands on Victoria Street, close to Victoria station. It is the mother church of Catholics in England and Wales and the seat of the Archbishop of Westminster. It is a separate building from Westminster Abbey, the nearby royal church, so check the name when planning your visit.
The site was acquired by the Catholic Church in 1884. Construction began in 1895, and the cathedral was designed by English architect John Francis Bentley. It opened in 1903, the year after Bentley died, and was consecrated in 1910, after building debts had been cleared. The cathedral remains an important setting for Catholic worship and national celebrations.
A Neo-Byzantine exterior and interior
The cathedral’s red-and-white striped brickwork makes it easy to distinguish from London’s Gothic churches. Its Neo-Byzantine design is unusual in the capital, with a tall bell tower and domes above the exterior. The building is large, but its patterned brickwork gives it a different character from the stone facades found at many other major churches.
Inside, marble, mosaics and architectural forms draw on Byzantine Christian design. Look up at the arches, then take time with the decoration on the columns and walls. The side chapels have distinct atmospheres and give the interior smaller spaces for prayer and reflection. The decorative work was added over many decades, so parts of the interior remain unfinished. That ongoing work is part of the building’s history, rather than a reason to rush through it.
Worship and the bell tower
Westminster Cathedral is first and foremost a place of worship. Visitors can attend Mass, where music is part of the service, or spend time in the chapels for prayer. Keep a respectful manner inside, particularly during services, and allow worshippers space.
The bell tower has a viewing gallery reached by lift. From above, the views take in parts of London’s skyline, including Westminster Abbey and Big Ben. Tower access is separate from entering the cathedral, and tickets are required; check the cathedral’s current arrangements before setting out. If you are interested in the architecture, consider seeing the striped exterior before going in, then return to the interior details and chapels at an unhurried pace.
FAQ
Is Westminster Cathedral free to enter?
The cathedral interior is free to visit. Access to the bell tower viewing gallery requires a ticket.
How long do you need at Westminster Cathedral?
Allow around 30 to 60 minutes to see the interior and chapels. Add time if you plan to visit the tower.
Can you go up the cathedral tower?
Yes. A lift takes visitors to the bell tower viewing gallery, which has views across London. A ticket is required.
Is Westminster Cathedral the same as Westminster Abbey?
No. Westminster Cathedral is the Roman Catholic mother church for England and Wales. Westminster Abbey is a separate nearby church.
