Liverpool Cathedral
Liverpool Cathedral, formally the Cathedral Church of Christ in Liverpool, is the largest cathedral and religious building in Britain and, at 189 metres (621 feet) externally, the longest cathedral in the world. Rising in red Woolton sandstone on St James's Mount above the city, it was designed by Sir Giles Gilbert Scott, who won the commission in 1903 at just twenty-two while still an articled pupil. Construction stretched across most of the twentieth century, from the laying of the foundation stone in 1904 to its completion in 1978, surviving two world wars and the Great Depression.
Though Gothic in inspiration, the building is a singular and monumental reinterpretation rather than a copy of any medieval model, dominated by a vast central tower 101 metres (331 feet) high that houses the world's highest and heaviest ringing peal of bells. The interior is breathtaking in scale, with one of the largest organs in the world, soaring sandstone arches, and a great east window flooding the choir with light. The first section was consecrated in 1924 in the presence of King George V, and Queen Elizabeth II attended the service marking the cathedral's completion in 1978.
The seat of the Bishop of Liverpool and the mother church of the Anglican Diocese of Liverpool, it is governed by its Dean and Chapter and remains a thriving centre of worship, music, and civic life. Visitors can ascend the tower for panoramic views over Merseyside and the River Mersey, explore the Lady Chapel, and enjoy regular concerts and exhibitions. It stands at one end of Hope Street, with Liverpool's Roman Catholic Metropolitan Cathedral at the other.
- Location
- 53.3975, -2.9731
- Local time
- 23:34 (Europe/London)
🕘 Visiting hours
| Mon–Sun | 08:00–18:00 |
Open daily roughly 8:00-18:00; areas may close for services and events, and tower hours differ. Confirm on the official site before visiting.
✨ Saints & blessed venerated here
-
Jesus Christ Saint
The cathedral is dedicated to Christ, its formal name being the Cathedral Church of Christ in Liverpool.
-
Blessed Virgin Mary Saint
The cathedral's Lady Chapel, the first part of the building to be completed and used, honours the Virgin Mary.
Care & donations
The Dean and Chapter of Liverpool Cathedral
Free entry with a suggested donation (around 5 pounds); the tower experience is ticketed.
Official website →The candle wall
1 candles burning now · 150 places
23:34
Tap an empty holder to light your own candle · €2.00 · hover a flame to see its intention