Birmingham, fondly known as “Brum” amongst the locals, was once at the centre of things during the Industrial Revolution, which led to a rise in the number of dingy factories and industries. Quite a few of these were eventually cleared, paving the way for several architectural and cultural improvements and civic amenities to raise the city’s profile. Among these was St Philip’s Cathedral, built in the 18th century. Despite being the third-smallest cathedral in England, it soon began seeing quite a footfall. What’s also amazing is that this cathedral is probably among the only few buildings in Birmingham that continue to be used for the purpose it was built to serve originally, which is worship. Many treasures of the cathedral, due to danger of damage during World War II, were removed at the time and were only re-installed in the cathedral building when it was restored in 1948. We’ve put together a guide to St Philip’s Cathedral, Birmingham that covers everything you have got to check out and do. Give it a read now and be sure to bookmark it for later!
Things to do / Highlights
Admire the church's architecture and art
The church’s architecture flaunts a rich Baroque style, together with exquisite stained-glass paintings, classical-style pillars with Tuscan capitals, and an arch mounted by a heavily projecting cornice. The church’s galleries are also all set in a typical English Baroque style. As for the exterior, it is built of brick and locally quarried stone, accentuated by marble columns that both support and decorate the ornate ceiling. It is stunning in every way.
Hitch a tour of the cathedral
Brief tours of the cathedral are conducted at 12:30 pm on Mondays and 11:30 am on Wednesdays. You can hitch one of these tours to gain insightful details about the history of the cathedral and learn some facts about its architecture. The guided tours are conducted for free and are about 20 minutes long. Head to the cathedral’s main entrance - this is where the tour begins. Else, you can opt for a virtual tour, which is available on all days of the week. For a self-guided tour, you can download the GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities app and navigate your way around the cathedral at your own pace.
Participate in the cathedral service
Cathedral service takes place at different hours each day, so it’s best you check the cathedral’s official website and participate in one that best suits your schedule.
Marvel at the sculptures
In the cathedral’s central courtyard, you’ll find a series of monuments and statues, among which is the famous obelisk that honours English intelligence officer Frederick Gustavus Burnaby for his contributions to the state.
Attend one of the events
Several concerts, events, performances, and exhibitions are hosted in the cathedral. While some of these are special, some happen on designated days every week, such as free BIblical talks every Tuesday. For the special events, it’s best you check their website for the latest line-up so you can plan accordingly.
Enjoy the cathedral's park
Right outside the cathedral, you’ll find several locals soaking up the rare English sun and enjoying a picnic. The gardens are well-tended to and is a relaxing space for a retreat.
Travellers tips
Accessibility
The cathedral is wheelchair-friendly, with wide double doors to the entrance and a ramp/slope to access the service. The staff also have disability awareness training and can assist.
See the stained glass windows from inside, not out
While these may not look all that great from the outside, we recommend you step inside to see the real beauty of these gigantic windows, richly adorned with colourful designs.
Avoid rush hours
The cathedral is quite small, therefore can get slightly crowded at times. Steer clear of service hours or while one of the events are on-going if you’re not going to participate in either and don’t want to be part of the rush.
Conduct
While the public is allowed to make use of the cathedral’s gardens, it is expected that they do not litter or create a racket there. Kindly be mindful of that.
How to get there
Train
Snow Hill and New Street are the closest train stations, at a walking distance from the cathedral.
Bus
Almost all city bus routes include a stop at Snow Hill station, near St Philip’s Cathedral, so you can hitch any bus that’s closest to you and reach the cathedral. Otherwise, tourists can also ride coaches with drop off points to Church Street. This is a short walking distance from the cathedral.
On foot
If you happen to be shopping at Jewellery Quarter, the cathedral is just a short walk away from here.
Car
There’s also the option of driving down to the cathedral. You can rent a private vehicle or hitch a cab.
Parking information
There are car parks at Temple Row, Colmore Row, or Waterloo Street where you can leave your car and walk down to the cathedral. There’s also paid parking at Snow Hill station.
St Philip's Cathedral information
St Philip's Cathedral
Address: Colmore Row, Birmingham B3 2QB, United Kingdom
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 7:30am - 6:30pm; Sat - Sun: 8:30am - 5pm
Official website: St Philip’s Cathedral
Department of tourism: Visit Birmingham
History
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