Liverpool Cathedral: The Largest Cathedral in Britain
Liverpool Cathedral is the largest cathedral in Britain and the eighth largest church in the world.
The iconic arches inside this magnificent structure are the largest Gothic arches ever built.
Described by the poet Sir John Betjeman as ‘one of the great buildings of the world,’ Liverpool Cathedral is steeped in history and inspires visitors from around the globe.
Construction of the iconic Cathedral started in 1904 under the guidance of famed architect Giles Gilbert Scott.
Unfortunately, Sir Giles Gilbert Scott would not get to see this wonderful building to completion - he died in 1960, aged 79 years old, and he is buried outside the west entrance to the Cathedral.
Sir Giles Gilbert Scott is also responsible for one of Britain’s most iconic creations – the red telephone box!
The vast, neo-Gothic Liverpool Anglican Cathedral was built into a rocky ridge above the city.
It is one of the best sites from which to see Liverpool; from its 331 foot-tall tower, the city, river and North Wales hills are laid out below.
A marvel of craftsmanship and intricate design, the cathedral took more than 74 years to complete, finally consecrated in 1978.
Following its completion, there was a thanksgiving service to mark the milestone, in the presence of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
Its prolonged construction spanned two world wars, contributing to its unique amalgamation of architectural styles from different eras.
As you approach the cathedral, its sheer size and intricate details immediately capture your attention.
The impressive facade, adorned with ornate carvings and sculptures, sets the tone for the grandeur within.
The interior boasts an awe-inspiring nave, one of the longest in the world, stretching nearly 188 meters in length.
The lofty ceilings, adorned with vibrant stained glass windows and intricate mosaics, create an ethereal atmosphere, inviting visitors to marvel at its beauty.
The Tower, standing at 101 meters, offers panoramic views of the cityscape.
Adventurous souls can climb the tower's 500 steps and witness breathtaking vistas of Liverpool and the River Mersey, a view that encapsulates the city's rich history and vibrant present.
The cathedral is also home to the largest organ in Britain.
The Grand Organ is made up of 10,267 pipes, making it the biggest in the United Kingdom and one of the largest in the world.
It took three years to build, between 1923 and 1926, and sits in two chambers on opposite sides of the choir.
The cathedral also showcases the world’s heaviest bells too!
The Bartlett Bells - named after the local man who bequeathed them to the cathedral - are the heaviest and highest in the world, weighing in at 31.5 tonnes (31,500kg) and hanging 219 foot (67 metres) above the ground in the cathedral tower.
The largest bell, Great George, is bigger than Big Ben.
The cathedral offer guided tours led by knowledgeable volunteers who unveil the secrets and stories hidden within its walls.
The tours talk you through its turbulent history, including the Blitz in 1941, when German bombers launched an air assault causing damage to cathedral.
A bomb bounced off the roof and exploded outside, destroying 23 windows and many neighbouring houses.
There’s more than 10,000 positive reviews on TripAdvisor.
Someone who recently visited the Cathedral said: “Wow - I don't think I was prepared for just how large this building is. It is amazing, so large, confident and reverent.
”We visited at Evensong which was a joy. Like many places in Liverpool, it is free to enter although do make a donation. This is a modern building with Victorian bones and just utterly beautiful.”
Liverpool Cathedral remain committed to keeping entry free to all, despite receiving no government funding or subsidy.
If you’d like to visit, the address is: St James’ Mount, Liverpool, L1 7AZ.
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