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Birmingham Cathedral

Birmingham, West Midlands

Also known as the Cathedral Church of St. Philip, the Birmingham Cathedral is the oldest building in central Birmingham still used for its original purpose. The seat of the Bishop of Birmingham, the cathedral (the third-smallest in the country) was built in the Italianate style 300 years ago. Today, its architecture, stained-glass windows, and expansive grounds are all notable features.

The basics

This Grade I-listed, Georgian baroque church, one of finest landmarks in central Birmingham, is a destination for architecture and art lovers, history buffs, and worshipers alike. It’s worth heading inside to see some of its highlights, including four stained-glass windows by Birmingham-born Pre-Raphaelite artist Sir Edward Burne-Jones, and its Swarbrick organ. Plus, its accompanying grounds are the largest green space in the city center, and a great place to enjoy a tranquil break from sightseeing.

While, thanks to its central location, the cathedral is easy to visit during an independent day out in the city, you can also learn more about its history if you see it as part of a guided Birmingham walking tour.

Things to know before you go

  • The Birmingham Cathedral is free for all to visit, except during private or ticketed events.
  • Personal photos and videos are permitted in the church except when services are in progress; tripods are prohibited.
  • There is step-free access to the nave and ramp access to the chancel; however, the galleries are not accessible to wheelchair users.
  • No public bathrooms are available on-site, except during special events.

How to get there

The Birmingham Cathedral is located at Cathedral Square, Colmore Row, Birmingham B3 2QB, right in the city center. It’s a 5-minute walk from Birmingham New Street Station (the city’s biggest transit hub), 3 minutes from Birmingham Snow Hill Station, and 12 minutes from Birmingham Moor Street Station. There are multiple tram and bus stops nearby, and taxis and rideshare services are also an option.

When to get there

The cathedral is open daily, from early morning to early evening. It holds multiple services every day of the week; outside of the services are general visiting hours, so check the schedule to plan your visit. Choral concerts and community events are also held at the cathedral, so you can find those on the calendar too.

St. Chad’s Cathedral

Not to be confused with the Birmingham Cathedral, St. Chad’s Cathedral is the second of two cathedrals in the city, just a few minutes away on foot. The Roman Catholic church is instantly recognizable by its red-brick exterior; it’s worth heading inside to admire its Gothic revival architecture and stained-glass windows.

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