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Saint John's Anglican Cathedral: A Brisbane Icon

Discover Brisbane's architectural gem, Saint John's Anglican Cathedral, a century-long testament to faith, art, and community in the heart of the city.

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Saint John's Anglican Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic Revival architecture in the heart of Brisbane, stands as a testament to faith and artistry. Construction spanned over a century, resulting in a unique blend of architectural styles and a rich history that draws visitors from around the world.

A brief summary to Saint John's Anglican Cathedral

Local tips

  • Visit on a weekday to avoid crowds and fully appreciate the cathedral's peaceful atmosphere.
  • Take a guided tour to discover the rich history and architectural details of the cathedral.
  • Attend a service or concert to experience the cathedral's vibrant community and musical traditions.
  • Explore the surrounding Cathedral precinct, including The Deanery and St Martin's House, to appreciate the area's old-world charm.
  • Look for the unique Australian elements in the cathedral's design, such as the sculptures of whales and the Australian animals depicted in the stained glass windows.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Central Station, exit onto Ann Street and turn right. Walk straight ahead for about 10 minutes, and you'll see St John's Cathedral on your right. Entry to the Cathedral is free.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus routes stop near St John's Cathedral, including routes 199, 202, 300, and 310. Check the Translink website for the most up-to-date information and routes. As of July 2025, all public transport fares in Brisbane are a flat rate of $0.50 per journey.

  • Taxi

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available throughout Brisbane. A short taxi ride from Brisbane City Hall to St John's Cathedral typically costs between $6 and $8. Taxi fares start at $1.40 AUD per km. Keep in mind that there may be a surcharge for card payments, and taxi drivers can legally require a deposit of the estimated fare upfront, especially for long-distance journeys.

  • Parking

    Limited metered street parking is available on Ann Street between 11:00 am and 2:00 pm on weekdays. Secure paid underground parking is available at Cathedral Square Car Park opposite the Cathedral. Limited on-site parking may be available in the Cathedral Precinct on weekends or for special events. You can also find and prebook parking spaces near St John's Cathedral through Parkhound.

Unlock the Best of Saint John's Anglican Cathedral

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Discover more about Saint John's Anglican Cathedral

Saint John's Anglican Cathedral, located in Brisbane's central business district, is a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture and a significant heritage site. Dedicated to St. John the Evangelist, the cathedral is the second-oldest Anglican church in Brisbane. Its construction, beginning in 1901 and completed in 2009, spanned over a century, making it a unique architectural achievement. The cathedral's design was initially commissioned in 1885 by William Webber, the third Bishop of Brisbane, from John Loughborough Pearson, a leading English church architect. Pearson's vision, inspired by French Gothic styles, was carried forward by his son Frank and supervising architect Robin Dods. The exterior is constructed from Brisbane tuff stone, while the interior features Helidon freestone. The cathedral is unique in Australia, featuring the only fully stone-vaulted ceiling in the Southern Hemisphere. Inside, visitors can admire the intricate wood carvings, over 150 stained glass windows, and a 350-million-year-old fossilised limestone font. The cathedral also houses a collection of memorials to the First and Second World Wars, including an ANZAC-emblazoned flag. Over 400 handcrafted cushions, each depicting Australian flora and fauna, adorn the pews. Today, Saint John's Cathedral serves as a center for Anglican tradition, hosting services, concerts, and community events. Visitors can explore the cathedral daily and attend guided tours to learn more about its history and architecture.

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