St. Patrick's Cathedral, Armagh

Explore the majestic Gothic Revival St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Armagh, a historic spiritual beacon with stunning architecture and rich heritage.

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St. Patrick's Cathedral

St. Patrick's Cathedral in Armagh is a striking 19th-century Roman Catholic cathedral perched on a hill, featuring twin spires and Gothic Revival architecture. Founded on a site of ancient Christian worship dating back to 445 AD, it offers rich historical relics, intricate mosaics, and stunning stained-glass windows. Visitors can explore its serene interior, enjoy panoramic views, and attend guided tours or services in this active parish church.

A brief summary to St. Patrick's Cathedral

Cathedral Close, 43 Abbey St, Armagh, BT61 7DY, GB
+442837523142
Visit website
Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
Budget
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Local tips

Pre-book a guided tour to gain deeper insight into the cathedral’s history and treasures; tours last about one hour.
Visit on a Sunday morning to experience the choir’s performance during the 11am Mass.
Take time to enjoy panoramic views of Armagh city and the countryside from the cathedral’s elevated hilltop location.
Explore the nearby Abbey Park for a peaceful stroll after your visit.
Children under 16 enter free, making it a family-friendly cultural and spiritual destination.

Getting There

Bus

Take the Ulsterbus service to Armagh city center; from there, it is a 10-15 minute walk uphill to the cathedral. Bus services run frequently with fares around £3-£5.
Car

Driving to St. Patrick’s Cathedral is straightforward with free on-site parking available. Travel times vary but typically range from 20 to 40 minutes from nearby towns. Note the hilltop location requires navigating some steep roads.
Walking

If staying in Armagh city, a 20-30 minute walk to the cathedral offers scenic views but involves a steady uphill path. Suitable for most visitors with moderate fitness.

St. Patrick's Cathedral location weather suitability

Any Weather
Rain / Wet Weather
Clear Skies
Mild Temperatures
Windy Conditions

Discover more about St. Patrick's Cathedral

A Historic Spiritual Landmark on the Hill of Armagh

St. Patrick's Cathedral stands prominently on the Hill of Armagh, a site sacred since the time of St. Patrick, who established Christian worship here in 445 AD. The current Roman Catholic cathedral, built between 1840 and 1904, symbolizes the Catholic presence in Ireland’s ecclesiastical capital. Its construction was interrupted by the Great Famine and other challenges, resulting in a prolonged building period that culminated in a magnificent Gothic Revival structure with twin spires dominating the skyline.

Architectural Grandeur and Artistic Treasures

The cathedral’s design, largely the work of architect J.J. McCarthy, features soaring arches, tall narrow nave, and intricate stone carvings that echo Ireland’s rich religious heritage. Inside, visitors find exquisite stained-glass windows depicting scriptural stories and scenes from the life of St. Patrick, alongside detailed mosaics and an impressive 19th-century pipe organ crafted by William Telford. The interior was significantly enhanced in the early 20th century and refurbished in the late 20th and early 21st centuries to preserve its beauty and structural integrity.

A Living Place of Worship and Pilgrimage

More than a historic monument, St. Patrick’s Cathedral remains an active parish church hosting daily Masses, weddings, funerals, and special events. Its choir, with a dedicated space for 30-35 members, enriches the liturgical experience, especially during the Sunday 11am service. Pilgrims and visitors alike are drawn to the cathedral’s serene atmosphere, often describing it as inspiring and peaceful.

Engaging Visitor Experiences and Guided Tours

Visitors can join guided tours led by expert guides, offering insights into the cathedral’s spiritual and architectural history. These tours last about an hour and highlight treasures such as the Book of Armagh and the cathedral’s silverware collection. A gift shop provides books and souvenirs, complementing the educational experience. Admission is free, with a modest fee for guided tours, and children under 16 enter free.

Setting and Surroundings

The cathedral’s elevated position affords panoramic views over Armagh city and the surrounding green countryside, enhancing its scenic appeal. Nearby Abbey Park offers a tranquil spot for reflection and relaxation after exploring the cathedral. The close proximity to the Anglican St. Patrick’s Cathedral adds to Armagh’s unique religious landscape.

Accessibility and Visitor Amenities

St. Patrick’s Cathedral is wheelchair accessible and welcomes guide dogs. Facilities include restrooms, a gift shop, seating areas, and information boards. The cathedral is open daily from 9am to 5pm, with tours available at scheduled times. Visitors are encouraged to pre-book guided tours to ensure availability.

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Unmissable attractions to see

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Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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St. Patrick's Cathedral, Armagh

A brief summary to St. Patrick's Cathedral

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

Bus

Car

Walking

St. Patrick's Cathedral location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of St. Patrick's Cathedral

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about St. Patrick's Cathedral

A Historic Spiritual Landmark on the Hill of Armagh

Architectural Grandeur and Artistic Treasures

A Living Place of Worship and Pilgrimage

Engaging Visitor Experiences and Guided Tours

Setting and Surroundings

Accessibility and Visitor Amenities

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Armagh Windmill

Rossmore Monument

Dawson Monument

Rossmore Castle Ruins

Rossmore Mausoleum

Ballykeel Dolmen (State Care Monument)

Bragan Penal Cross

Creggandevesky Court Tomb

East Coast Adventure at Rostrevor Mountain Lodge, Mourne Mountains, Self Catering ensuite accommodation

Bronze Age Monolith

Proleek Wedge Tomb

Maid of Erin

Monaghans cross

Kelly's Monument

Clones Round Tower

Unmissable attractions to see

No 5 Vicars’ Hill

The Market Place Theatre & Arts Centre

Embers

EUROSPAR Thomas Street

Dante’s Armagh

Bagel Bean

Royal Irish Fusiliers Museum

KFC Armagh - Lonsdale Road

Saint Patrick's Way: The Pilgrim Walk

Palace Demesne Public Park

Armagh Friary (State Care Monument)

Armagh County Museum

McAnerney's

Armagh Observatory and Planetarium

Armagh Observatory

Essential places to dine

Uluru Bar & Grill

Subway

Cypros Giros Vasilis

Raffertys Bar

Charlemont Arms Hotel

Desburrito Armagh

Keegan's Bar & Restaurant

Armagh Indian Nights

Mulberry Bistro

Armagh City Hotel

The Callan Bar

The Friary Restaurant

The Parkland Armagh

On The Hoof

The Scullery

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Creative Ideas Home & Gift

Needle Art

Bonmarché

Pure Magic Boutique

Melia Boutique Clothing & Accessories

H Emerson & Son Ltd

Gasp

The Craic'd Pot Coffee House

DV8

The Treasure Box

Tip Top Shop