Westminster Cathedral
The Mother Church of Catholics in England and Wales
Westminster Cathedral stands as the largest Catholic church in England and Wales and serves as the mother church of the Catholic community in these nations. Not to be confused with the nearby Westminster Abbey (an Anglican church), the Cathedral represents the re-establishment of Catholic hierarchy in England following centuries of suppression after the Reformation.
A Bold Architectural Choice
When Cardinal Herbert Vaughan commissioned the cathedral in the late 19th century, architect John Francis Bentley made the bold decision to design it in the Byzantine style rather than Gothic. This choice was both practical and symbolic—it would not compete with the Gothic Westminster Abbey, and it could be built quickly using brick construction while leaving the interior decoration for future generations.
Construction and Design
Construction began in 1895 and the cathedral was opened in 1903, though interior decoration continues to this day. The striking exterior features alternating bands of red brick and white Portland stone, creating a distinctive striped pattern. The campanile (bell tower) rises 284 feet and offers panoramic views across London from its viewing gallery.
The Magnificent Interior
The interior of Westminster Cathedral is breathtaking in its scale and decoration. The nave is the widest in England, spanning 60 feet, and the domed ceiling soars 117 feet above the floor. Over 100 different marbles from around the world adorn the lower walls and columns, while the upper walls and domes await completion of their planned mosaic decoration.
The Chapels
The cathedral contains numerous side chapels, each dedicated to different saints and decorated in unique styles. The Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament features stunning mosaics, while the Lady Chapel honors the Virgin Mary. The Chapel of St George and the English Martyrs commemorates Catholics who died for their faith during the Reformation.
The Stations of the Cross
One of the cathedral's most notable artistic features is the Stations of the Cross by sculptor Eric Gill, created between 1914 and 1918. These powerful relief carvings in Hopton Wood stone represent a masterpiece of early 20th-century religious art and attract visitors from around the world.
Music and Worship
Westminster Cathedral is renowned for its music tradition. The Cathedral Choir, consisting of boy choristers and professional lay clerks, maintains the highest standards of liturgical music and has made numerous acclaimed recordings. The cathedral's grand organ, with over 4,000 pipes, accompanies the daily round of services.
Visiting Today
The cathedral welcomes visitors of all faiths and none. Entry is free, though donations are appreciated. The viewing gallery at the top of the campanile offers one of London's finest views and is accessible by lift. The cathedral shop and café provide additional facilities for visitors.
Opening Hours
Cathedral: Daily 7:00 - 19:00
Bell Tower (Viewing Gallery):
Monday - Friday: 9:30 - 17:00
Saturday - Sunday: 9:30 - 18:00
Free entry to cathedral. Tower admission fee applies. Hours may vary during services.