This cathedral is impressive but I can't say that I like the exterior of the building, in fact I hate it and find it ugly and quite creepy but the interior is beautiful, it's huge, booming, with large stained glass windows, marble floors, a gorgeous gold alter and religious artwork on display. It is beautiful inside and well worth a visit. read more

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Although only completed in the 1970s, Liverpool's Anglican Cathedral is one Britain's most iconic buildings, a place of superlatives. A visit is a must on any stay in Liverpool. The cathedral is simply vast, and impresses in scale if nothing else, the height emphasised inside by the dark stone: some find this overbearing, other magnificent. Either way, it certainly makes an impression. Despite the late-Gothic style, this is entirely a 20th-century building. The diocese of Liverpool was created in 1880, but it was not until 1902 that a competition was held to design a cathedral in keeping with the wealthy and burgeoning port. Amazingly, the winner was just 22 years old, and still a student with no other buildings to his credit. But this was no ordinary student: Giles Gilbert Scott was the grandson of Sir George Gilbert Scott, the great Victorian church designer, and his father (also George Gilbert Scott) was also a church architect. Due to his inexperience, one of the competition assessors, G K Bodley, himself a well-known church architect, was appointed to work alongside him. The relationship was reportedly difficult, but after Bodley's death in 1907, Scott continued alone. Scott's design was for a huge, late gothic church, which would dominate the hill-top site chosen. The plan is conventional, albeit with double transepts, and the floor rises through a series of steps from the west door to emphasise the height. The first part of the church to be built was the Lady Chapel, completed in 1910, using traditional church building techniques in stone. As the cathedral slowly developed, Scott modified the plans, which replaced the twin west towers with a single central tower, and also simplified the gothic detailing. The contrast between the more intricate and delicate style of the Lady Chapel and the more monumental style of the rest of the cathedral is noticeable. Another change was the adoption of reinforced concrete for the structure, clad in red sandstone, rather than continue using the traditional building techniques. The choir and eastern transepts were completed in 1924, and the cathedral consecrated in the presence of King George V. But rising costs, the 1930s' depression and the two World Wars hampered progress, and the cathedral was not finally completed until 1978, and a special service held in the presence of Queen Elizabeth II. It is the largest church in the UK and vies with St John the Divine in New York to be the largest Anglican church: it is the third largest in Europe after St Peter's in Rome and Seville cathedral, although it may be larger in volume. Its 101m (331ft) bell-tower is the largest (though not quite the highest) in the world, with the heaviest and highest peal of bells too. The central space under the tower (53m, 175ft) was also the highest until a recent clutch of skyscrapers were built with higher atria. But at 50m (161ft) it's still impressive. The organ, with 10,268 pipes, is the largest in the UK, and the largest operational organ in the world. The cathedral also has an active life of services, education, music and events to match its size, and is one of the most vibrant in the UK. A visit to a service to hear the sound of the magnificent organ reverberating through the interior is a truly memorable experience. The other amazing experience is to ascend the tower: 2 lifts take you most of the way, but the final ascent is by 108 stairs. Thanks to its dominant position on St James' Mount, the top is over 500ft above the River Mersey, and the views across Liverpool, the Wirral and Cheshire are stupendous. There no doubt about it - this is a must see building. read more

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A definite must see if you are touring Liverpool. You can walk to it form the city or take the Hop On Hop Off. It stops right on the side. It is a huge structure and they are currently working on it's reconstruction. It is open most days to go inside and it is a must to go inside. It is absolutely huge and beautiful. The stained glass windows are stunning. They also have a large gift shop where you can pick up a nice memory of your visit. read more

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Impressive cathedral, a bit glum. The size of the building is nothing less than stunning. It's the largest cathedral in England IIRC. That alone makes it worth visiting. It's hardly less impressive on the inside - there are a lot of beautiful objects: stone figures, altars, memorial tablets - you name it. I should clarify that my interest in churches is solely motivated by their architectural history/beauty and the objects inside - I'm not a believer. While the building is truly magnificent, it's not what I would call "a friendly-looking cathedral". I.e., from the outside it looks like a huge sarcophagus. And it's rather dark inside, too. One of those churches that have a rather intimidating, forbidding atmosphere. I have visited many cathedrals in England, from Norwich and Peterborough to Colchester, Leeds, Manchester, Worcester and Gloucester, but my favorite is the wonderful Ely Cathedral - if you only have time to visit one cathedral in England, make it Ely. But Liverpool is pretty high up on that list, too. The church hosts a lot of concerts and other local/regional events. When I was visiting, they were rehearsing a concert for a local school. The acoustics in this place are pretty fabulous. Of course the entry is free, and you can also take any pictures you want. read more

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Being both different and difficult, I'm not going to review the actual Cathedral building (which is just as magnificent and beautiful as all the other reviews here describe it) but its refectory. Because yes, believe it or not, you are able to scoff a Baked Potato in one of the eaves of God's gaff - and a rather fine experience it is too. I decided to pop into the cathedral for my lunch today out of curiosity more than anything else. A friend had told me they served some pretty stellar Scouse which seemed like just the thing to warm my bones on a decidedly rainy March afternoon. Also, I'd always liked the idea of eating in a cathedral - I never really knew it was allowed you see, and was always scared I'd go to hell if a priest caught me snacking on a Ham Sandwich in the middle of the Sunday Service. The refectory itself looks out upon the vista of one of the oldest - and most beautiful - areas of Liverpool. Serving locally sourced sandwiches, soups, salads and Scouse, when I was there it appeared to be remarkably popular with both cathedral visitors and office workers alike. I did think my bowl of stew was a bit pricey for what it was (I paid £4.99 for a small bowl of meat, veg and a bread roll), but all that changed with my first bite. This is delicious, warming and hearty food - the meat melts in your mouth, and is tasty and well seasoned. Plus, there was something truly lovely about sitting and watching the world go by in such beautiful surroundings which can surely be appreciated by both holy and heathen alike. Saying that though, I may have done a discreet ladyburp whilst looking at a stained glass window in the vestry afterwards. I do hope that God doesn't smite me with a thunderbolt for being an uncouth (if very well fed) slob. read more

I like to go two cathedrals in Liverpool. It is very unique experience to go to two cathedrals in a city. The staff are very friendly and helpful( probably I do look tourist from overseas) and many different language of guidebook. read more

A massive structure which when you first see it sort of takes you a minute to dissolve whats in front of you. To truly discover what it has to offer it is worth taking a trip up to the top and looking over the city. There is also a lovely cafe and shop. read more

Liverpool Cathedral - Churches Near Me

Even though I'm not particularly religious I love going to this cathedral. This building is a true architectural master piece, with huge arcs towering towards the sky. I personally love just to sit and listen to the long acoustic. Like most Cathedrals entrance is free but there is a huge donations box on the way in. If you time your visit well you might just catch an organ recital played on the UKs largest organ. If all the walking around and sight seeing makes you thirsty the Cathedral has two small coffee that serve food and drink all day long. read more

Certainly the UK's largest cathedral, and arguably the largest Anglican cathedral in the world, Liverpool Cathedral is a fabulous building. It's impressive for its sheer scale - the tower dominates the skyline for miles - but the oldest part (the Lady Chapel) is also very beautiful. It's amazing to think that its architect (Giles Gilbert Scott) was only 22 years old when he designed it. It's a must-see on any visit to Liverpool. read more

A magnificent building worthy of a visit, it stands in stark contrast to the more modern RC Cathedral otherwise known as Paddy's Wigwam. I walked round on 12 September whilst a choir was rehearsing, and the organ playing, and the acoustics were a little lost because the cathedral is so massive. Gazing up and around at the scale of the architecture certainly gives you open-mouthed wonderment at this splendid religious achievement. Holds organ recitals and concerts. read more

A fantastic piece of 20th Century Architecture. The building is just absolutely enormous. It is quite onvious why it took best part of 100 years to build. If you are visting Liverpool this Cathedral is a must visit. read more

Gorgeous place to go, really beautiful and full of great archtecture.It is one of the iconic landmarks in liverpool and stands out around from all its surrounds.It really is worth a visit not just from tourist but residence of liverpool also. The Cathedral also has its 60 boy and girl choristers which is very special when you here them singso beautiful. Then also do alot of events at the cathedral esp at chistmas when the choir sings lots of tradition and fun christmas songsvery special. read more

This is an amazingly impressive cathedral in Liverpool, helped by its raised position, it stands out for all the right reasons. The building just gets better once inside and is truely stunning. The place holds a place close to my heart as I was lucky enough to be confirmed here. Its obviously a matter of personal taste, but no matter what your personal religious views, its worth going to look at the gothic architecture and how anyone can call it ugly amazes me. Please visit and form your own opinion. read more

An amazing building, gargantuan in scale. Its airy, echoey interior is vast and impressive. Walking round, or (better) sitting in for a service, is a beautiful experience. The cathedral has a great musical heritage, and the choir is well worth hearing. The building is also home to a lot of intriguing modern art. Admittedly, on an ordinary day, the building lacks the quiet and reverence of the nearby Metropolitan Cathedral, so unless there's a service going on, it's not always easy to sit down and reflect or meditate. There's often the noise of clanking dishes and cutlery coming from the new cafe (which one critic likened to an airport lounge), which can be distracting. However, it's a beautiful cathedral, and set in pleasant grounds. The city is very lucky to have not one, but two stunning cathedrals. I believe this one is the tallest (or the widest or the somethingest) in Europe. read more

An amazing place. The sheer size of the building is stunning -- when you enter you get such an overwhelming sense of space and air it's impossible not to stop and reflect. They always get a huge Christmas tree in every year, and to be honest it's worth going just to see that. If you're into organs, I'm told this one is one of the most impressive anywhere in the country. I've been to many Cathedrals, and quite a few (especially those that charge for entry) feel like tourist attractions. This Cathedral doesn't. It's a place of worship, and it feels like it. And that, surely, is how Cathedrals ought to feel. read more

When I worked for a charity I actually had a stall inside the cathedral (along with a few other charities) and was able to give out leaflets before and after the service. As has been said many times (by almost everyone), this is a very beautiful building, especially on the inside and well worth a visit, believer or not! The cafe is adequate and the shop is well stocked and interesting. Parking is easy (at the side). read more

What a beautiful beautiful cathedral. the structure and interiors are breathtaking. i wasnt lucky enough to have a tour but i will definatley go back and learn more about this wonderful building. read more

stunning, a great tour, and the children were very impressed surprisingly. This Cathedral is an awesome, spectacular, beautiful building and yet also a vibrant living church attempting to live the Christian Gospel; a community of daily prayer and worship; a home to great art and music. The choir is fab read more

This Cathedral almost always gets overlooked or overshadowed by the Metropolitan Cathedral a short distance away but each have their own charms. The Anglican Cathedral is more quiet and reserved whilst the Metropolitan has a sort of shout if from the rooftops appeal. This cathedral appeals to me far more than the other one because of its charm and beauty and the traditional architecture. read more

The Anglican is indeed stunning and is very inviting.

An overview of the history of this awesome place. Dean Rupert Hoare was installed in 1999 and oversaw the introduction of the new Constitution and Statutes as required by the Cathedrals Measure 1999. The Chapter were clear that charges to enter the Cathedral should not be introduced for visitors, and sought to make the building more accessible to a wide variety of worshippers, the Diocese, other organizations, visitors and tourists. The Cathedral's Centenary was celebrated in 2004 and the first two phases of the Visitor Centre opened in December 2006 and early 2007. Under the leadership of Derrick Walters, the fourth Dean of Liverpool, the area in front of the Cathedral was transformed from urban dereliction into a setting appropriate to a great Cathedral and in 1991 the Queen formerly opened Queen's Walk. On 25th October 1978, in the presence of the Queen, there was a great service of thanksgiving to mark the completion of the Cathedral, a triumphant proclamation of hope On 22nd April 1961, the newly completed Bridge and the first bay of the Nave were handed over to the Dean & Chapter. Sadly the architect had not lived long enough to enjoy the new vistas through his Cathedral. In bitterly cold weather on 20th February 1942, Sir Giles Scott placed the final stone on the final finial at the top of the tower, three hundred and thirty one feet one and half inches above the Cathedral floor. Solemn Entrance in Time of War was the name of the first service to take place in the vast Central Space below the still incomplete Tower. King George VI and Queen Elizabeth visited the Cathedral during the blitz and gave encouragement to the Cathedral community to keep building. In October 1931, Frederick William Dwelly was appointed as the first Dean of Liverpool, a position he was to hold until his retirement in 1955. Despite the serious delays caused by the First World War, the High Altar, Chancel and Eastern Transepts were completed and, in the presence of King George V and Queen Mary, the Cathedral was consecrated. Albert Augustus David had succeeded Bishop Chavasse in 1923, and Frederick William Dwelly, future first Dean of Liverpool, devised and organised the service. On Saint Peter's Day, 29th June, the Lady Chapel, the first part of the Cathedral to be completed, was dedicated by Bishop Chavasse and Cosmo Long, Archbishop of York. On Tuesday 19th July 1904 the Foundation Stone was laid by King Edward VII at a great open-air service at the culmination of which the choir of a thousand voices sang Hallelujah Chorus from Handel's Messiah. The design submitted by twenty-two year old Giles Gilbert Scott was chosen and Scott and George Bodley were appointed joint architects. On Monday 17th June 1901, at a meeting in the Town Hall, the decision was taken to build a worthy Cathedral for the prosperous City of Liverpool. John Charles Ryle was appointed the first Bishop of Liverpool and was installed in Saint Peter's Church, the Pro-Cathedral, later described by the Rector of Liverpool as ugly & hideous A truly awesome building that anyone visiting Liverpool should see. read more

I really enjoy spending time in the cathedral gardens and the view of the city from the top is amazing, just remember that there are a few stairs to climb!!! read more

an amazing cathedral, only visited once whilst i lived in liverpool, optional visit to the church tower, and a nice walk in the grounds on a good day......... the informaition about the building about the church is amazing, gift shop and refreshments available........ read more

In 1904 King Edward VII laid the Foundation Stone in the presence of 7,000 people. Crippling inflation made the completion of the building a difficult task but in October 1978 Queen Elizabeth II attended the service to mark the completion of the largest Cathedral in Britain. This is the sixth largest cathedral in the world and is just under half the size of St Peter's Basilica in Rome (The world's largest Cathedral). It is only when you get close to this building that you realise just how big it is. The cathedral also has the highest and heaviest peal of church bells in the world. (67m/219feet) (31.5 tonnes/31tons) There are two pipe organs in Liverpool Cathedral. The Grand Organ is the largest in the UK and probably the largest operational organ in the world. The Grand Organ has 10,268 pipes There is also a lovely cafe for scones and tea after a gentle amble around the huge interior marvelling at the incredible architecture. Well worth an afternoon's sightseeing. read more

Not just a place of worship , extremely interesting architect and dont forget to have a look from the top of the church tower where you will be amazed by the magnificent views over liverpool. they also have a cafe and a gift shop and have regular services . read more

Worth a visit to see the sheer size of it. Dominates the city skyline. Fantastic Stained Glass Windows and Opportunity to view the city from the top of the tower. There are refreshments avaliable read more

It's absolutely huge but really very ugly. the Catholic cathedral is far more beautiful and atmospheric.

Imposing and demanding of awe and respect, this building is opposite my university (LIPA) so I see it daily. At night and when it is misty it can be eerie, and you can also see it clearly from Birkenhead over the water. I have been inside and the cafe is really nice, there are two actually and both are good. They have a gift shop and often have exhibitions on. Paul McCartney has hosted two classical music performances here so it can't be bad!! There is also a standard size red phone box inside, which is the smallest invention of the man who designed the biggest cathedral, or one of the biggest at least, in Europe. The organ is also the second largest in Europe and concerts sound superb there. I am yet to experience the walk up the tower; I plan to do it on a warm and clear day to make the most of the view. ALso, outside you can explore the old quarry and graveyard and there is Liverpool's only natural spring to be found there too. I even took a drink from it. read more