Birmingham Cathedral: Historic Baroque Jewel in the Heart of the City
Explore Birmingham Cathedral, a stunning Baroque landmark with world-class stained glass, vibrant community spirit, and free daily access in the city centre.
Birmingham Cathedral, also known as St Philip’s Cathedral, is a stunning example of English Baroque architecture dating back to 1715. Located in Cathedral Square on Colmore Row, it is the oldest building in Birmingham city centre still used for its original purpose. The cathedral is renowned for its four magnificent stained-glass windows by Pre-Raphaelite artist Edward Burne-Jones, recently restored to their original splendour. Open daily with free entry, it serves as a vibrant spiritual, cultural, and community hub.
A brief summary to Birmingham Cathedral
- Cathedral Square, Colmore Row, Birmingham, B3 2QB, GB
- +441212621840
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 7:20 am-6:30 pm
- Tuesday 7:20 am-6:30 pm
- Wednesday 7:20 am-6:30 pm
- Thursday 7:20 am-6:30 pm
- Friday 7:20 am-6:30 pm
- Saturday 8:20 am-9:30 am
- Sunday 8:20 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays early morning or late afternoon to enjoy a quieter atmosphere and better light for viewing the stained-glass windows.
- Join one of the free volunteer-led guided tours to learn about the cathedral’s history and the significance of the Burne-Jones windows.
- Check the cathedral’s event calendar for special concerts, especially the atmospheric Candlelight series held in the nave.
- Use the step-free access ramp available on request for easier mobility within the nave and chancel areas.
- Take time to relax in the adjacent Cathedral Square green space, known locally as 'pigeon park,' for a peaceful urban retreat.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train and Metro
Travel to Birmingham Snow Hill station, located approximately 1.2 km from the cathedral. From there, it is a 15-minute walk through the city centre. Snow Hill is served by frequent regional trains and the West Midlands Metro tram, offering a convenient and accessible route. No parking available at the cathedral.
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Bus
Numerous city centre bus routes stop near Cathedral Square, including services on Colmore Row. Bus travel times vary from 10 to 30 minutes depending on your starting point within Birmingham. Buses run frequently throughout the day, with tickets costing around £2–£4. On-street parking is limited and restricted.
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Car
Limited on-street parking is available on Colmore Row and nearby streets, but spaces are scarce and often time-restricted. The nearest car park with disabled parking is at Birmingham Snow Hill station, where blue badge holders can park for free. Expect a 10–15 minute walk from parking to the cathedral.
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Walking
Located centrally, the cathedral is easily reachable on foot from many Birmingham city centre attractions. Walking routes are mostly flat and accessible, taking 10–20 minutes from key points such as the Bullring shopping centre or Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery.
Birmingham Cathedral location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Birmingham Cathedral
An Architectural Masterpiece Rooted in History
Birmingham Cathedral, formally St Philip’s Cathedral, was designed by Thomas Archer and completed between 1711 and 1715. Archer’s design was inspired by his travels to Rome, incorporating Italianate elements reminiscent of Borromini’s churches. The cathedral’s rectangular hall church layout features aisles separated from the nave by fluted pillars topped with Tuscan capitals, crowned by a projecting cornice and wooden galleries—a hallmark of English Baroque style. Elevated to cathedral status in 1905, it remains the oldest building in Birmingham’s city centre still fulfilling its original ecclesiastical function.Artistic Treasures: The Burne-Jones Stained Glass Windows
The cathedral’s most celebrated artistic feature is its set of four stained-glass windows designed by local-born Pre-Raphaelite artist Edward Burne-Jones between 1885 and 1897. These windows depict significant scenes from the life of Jesus Christ, incorporating intricate details and symbolic imagery, including textile patterns by William Morris. Fully restored in 2023, the vibrant colours and craftsmanship of these windows are considered among the finest examples of Pre-Raphaelite art worldwide, drawing visitors into a profound meditation on faith and artistry.A Living Centre of Worship and Community
Birmingham Cathedral continues to serve as a spiritual hub, hosting daily services including Holy Communion and Evening Prayer, welcoming all visitors to join. It also plays an important civic role, fostering community cohesion through partnerships with faith groups, charities, and local institutions. The cathedral’s welcoming atmosphere encourages reflection, prayer, and spiritual growth, while its accessible facilities include step-free access to the nave, a hearing loop, and large print materials to accommodate diverse visitors.Cultural Events and Concerts Amid Historic Splendour
Beyond worship, the cathedral is a vibrant cultural venue, regularly hosting concerts, art exhibitions, and special events such as the renowned Candlelight concert series. These performances, often set beneath the soaring arches and illuminated stained glass, create an evocative ambiance that enhances the visitor experience. The cathedral’s rich musical tradition is supported by its historic organ, parts of which date back to the original Thomas Swarbrick instrument.Serene Green Space in the Urban Core
Situated in Cathedral Square, the cathedral is surrounded by one of Birmingham’s largest green spaces in the city centre, affectionately known as the 'pigeon park.' This tranquil outdoor area offers a peaceful retreat amid the bustling commercial district, providing a scenic setting for contemplation or casual relaxation.Welcoming Visitors with Free Entry and Guided Tours
Open daily with free admission during visiting hours, Birmingham Cathedral invites all to explore its architectural beauty and spiritual heritage. Free group tours led by knowledgeable volunteers are available on selected dates, focusing on the cathedral’s history and its stained-glass masterpieces. Private group tours and educational visits can be booked for a modest fee. The cathedral’s central location makes it easily accessible and a must-see landmark for visitors to Birmingham.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Workers Memorial
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A solemn landmark in Birmingham honoring workers lost to workplace tragedy and inspiring the fight for safer labor conditions.
The River
0.3 km
Iconic bronze fountain sculpture in Birmingham’s Victoria Square, blending art, poetry, and urban life since 1994.
The Best of Birmingham Trail
0.3 km
Explore Birmingham’s rich heritage through 20 iconic sites on this free, immersive city centre trail blending history, art, and urban renewal.
Chamberlain Memorial
0.4 km
A striking neo-Gothic monument in Birmingham’s Chamberlain Square honoring Joseph Chamberlain’s legacy of public service and city transformation.
The Selfridges Building
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A shimmering silver landmark in Birmingham’s Bullring, where shopping meets futuristic architecture and luxury retail in a sculptural masterpiece.
Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum
0.9 km
Unleash your curiosity at Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum, where science comes to life through interactive exhibits and engaging experiences for all ages.
Millennium Point
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Explore Millennium Point, Birmingham's architectural marvel and vibrant venue for conferences, exhibitions, and community events.
Kids' Park
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Discover Kids' Park in Birmingham, where adventure meets learning in a family-friendly environment filled with fun activities and lush greenery.
The Cube
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Discover The Cube in Birmingham – a unique blend of leisure, dining, and entertainment that creates unforgettable experiences for every visitor.
Birmingham Walk of Stars
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Explore the Birmingham Walk of Stars, an outdoor tribute celebrating the city's iconic figures from music, film, and sports along the vibrant Broad Street.
Pen Museum
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Explore the fascinating world of writing instruments at the Pen Museum, a unique Birmingham attraction celebrating the heritage of pens and writing.
Eastside City Park
1.0 km
Experience the tranquility and culture of Eastside City Park, Birmingham's premier urban green space, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
The Empire Remains Shop—Birmingham
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Explore Birmingham's cultural heritage at The Empire Remains Shop, a unique museum showcasing the city's rich history and artistic legacy.
National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham
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Explore the National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham, a captivating aquarium experience featuring thousands of marine creatures and educational exhibits for all ages.
Historic England
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Uncover Birmingham's rich history and heritage at Historic England, a cornerstone of cultural preservation and education in the heart of the city.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Old Joint Stock Pub & Theatre, Birmingham
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Historic Victorian pub and vibrant studio theatre in Birmingham’s city centre, blending rich heritage with live entertainment and refined British dining.
Great Western Arcade
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Discover Birmingham’s elegant Victorian shopping arcade blending historic charm with boutique shops, fine foods, and cozy bars.
House of Fraser
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Discover Birmingham’s iconic House of Fraser on Corporation Street, a historic department store offering diverse fashion, beauty, and homewares across six floors.
New Street & Burlington Arcade
0.2 km
A vibrant crossroads in Birmingham city centre blending historic elegance and dynamic shopping at New Street and Burlington Arcade.
Martineau Place
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Birmingham's central shopping hub honoring a dynasty of mayors, blending retail buzz with echoes of Unitarian heritage and civic pride.
Frankfurt Christmas Market Birmingham
0.3 km
Experience the largest authentic German Christmas market outside Germany, alive with festive food, crafts, and music in Birmingham’s Victoria Square.
A guardian
0.3 km
Historic French Renaissance former Head Post Office now vibrant Grade A office space overlooking Birmingham’s civic heart.
Birmingham & Midland Institute
0.3 km
Historic cultural landmark fostering education, arts, and science in Birmingham since 1854, with a renowned library and vibrant programs.
Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery
0.3 km
Explore Birmingham’s rich heritage and world-class art in a stunning historic museum with free entry and family-friendly galleries.
The Square Shopping Centre
0.3 km
Compact, sheltered city-centre shopping with practical high-street and independent stalls, ideal for quick stops and everyday needs near Birmingham’s retail core.
Victoria Square
0.3 km
Victoria Square: Birmingham’s historic pedestrian plaza blending iconic architecture, lively fountains, and vibrant city culture in a central urban oasis.
Birmingham Town Hall
0.4 km
Discover Birmingham Town Hall, a Roman Revival architectural gem and historic concert venue at the heart of Victoria Square.
Chamberlain Square
0.4 km
Birmingham’s iconic public square blending Victorian grandeur with modern vibrancy and cultural celebration.
The Grand Central Bull
0.4 km
Experience Birmingham's vibrant culture and rich history at The Grand Central Bull, a must-see tourist attraction in the heart of the city.
Grand Central Shopping Centre
0.4 km
A stunning, modern shopping centre integrated with Birmingham’s New Street Station, offering diverse retail and dining in a light-filled, accessible space.
Essential places to dine
Gusto Italian
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Stylish Italian dining beneath Birmingham’s Grand Hotel, blending classic flavors with a lively city centre atmosphere.
Fumo by San Carlo - Birmingham Waterloo St
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Chic Italian dining in Birmingham serving Venetian cicchetti, creative cocktails, and authentic flavors in a stylish modern setting.
The Ivy Temple Row
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A stylish British brasserie in Birmingham blending art deco elegance with classic dishes and impeccable service.
San Carlo - Birmingham
0.1 km
Classic Italian elegance and seafood delights in Birmingham’s stylish city centre dining destination.
Gaucho Birmingham
0.1 km
Experience authentic Argentinian steakhouse luxury with premium cuts and elegant ambiance in Birmingham’s vibrant city centre.
Riva Blu Italian Restaurant & Bar, Birmingham
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant taste and style of Southern Italy in the heart of Birmingham with Riva Blu’s authentic cuisine and chic atmosphere.
The Oyster Club
0.1 km
A sophisticated oyster bar and seafood restaurant in Birmingham offering fresh oysters, creative cocktails, and seasonal dishes in a relaxed setting.
Las Iguanas - Birmingham - Temple Street
0.1 km
Vibrant Latin American dining with carnival energy, fresh cocktails, and shareable feasts in Birmingham's city centre.
Tattu Birmingham
0.1 km
Ancient philosophy meets modern cuisine in Birmingham's most architecturally audacious Chinese restaurant.
Land Restaurant
0.1 km
Innovative vegan fine dining in Birmingham’s historic arcade, blending global flavors with seasonal British produce.
The Lost & Found Birmingham
0.1 km
A whimsical Victorian botanical hideaway in Birmingham offering inventive British cuisine and a unique cocktail experience in a lively, vintage setting.
The Botanist Birmingham
0.2 km
A vibrant botanical oasis in Birmingham city centre, blending fresh seasonal dining, inventive cocktails, and live music by the canal.
Orelle
0.2 km
Sophisticated French fine dining on the 24th floor with panoramic views across Birmingham’s skyline.
Adam's Restaurant
0.2 km
Michelin-starred modern British fine dining in Birmingham with creative cuisine, elegant Art Deco style, and impeccable service.
Purnells
0.2 km
Experience Michelin-starred British innovation and exquisite flavors at Purnell's, Birmingham’s premier fine dining destination.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Community Gift Shop
0.1 km
Discover unique products and support diverse entrepreneurs at Birmingham’s Black Pounds Project Community Gift Shop in the historic Great Western Arcade.
The Alice Boutique
0.2 km
Discover timeless vintage-inspired fashion in a charming boutique nestled within Birmingham’s historic Great Western Arcade.
Designer Exchange
0.2 km
Discover authenticated preloved luxury fashion in Birmingham’s elegant Victorian Great Western Arcade.
La MC Vintage
0.2 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures in Birmingham’s charming North Western Arcade at La MC Vintage.
Urban Outfitters
0.2 km
Discover stylish apparel, unique homewares, and a vibrant shopping vibe at Urban Outfitters Birmingham in the city centre.
Funkybits4u Fair Trade - Birmingham
0.3 km
Discover ethically crafted gifts and inspiring interiors at Funkybits4u Fair Trade, a vibrant hub of sustainable artistry in Birmingham.
Obsidian
0.3 km
Discover mystical treasures and spiritual gifts at Obsidian, Birmingham’s premier metaphysical shop on vibrant Corporation Street.
The Oasis fashion store
0.3 km
A vibrant hub for alternative fashion, vintage finds, and creative lifestyle services in the heart of Birmingham.
Simply Gifted
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Explore Simply Gifted in Birmingham for unique gifts and local treasures that reflect the vibrant spirit of the city.
The Works
0.3 km
Discover affordable arts, crafts, books, and stationery in the heart of Birmingham’s vibrant New Street shopping district.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.4 km
Discover quirky, affordable Scandinavian gifts and everyday essentials that bring joy and creativity to Birmingham’s city center.
Miniso
0.4 km
Bright, affordable design and collectable character goods — a family-friendly stop for pocket-money treats in Grand Central.
Primark
0.4 km
A huge, multi‑level flagship on Birmingham High Street offering fast, affordable fashion, homewares and themed in‑store concepts under one roof.
Wornwell Vintage Clothing
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Discover authentic vintage fashion and quality streetwear at Wornwell Vintage Clothing, a unique shop nestled inside Primark on Birmingham's High Street.
Beauty & the Button
0.5 km
Discover personalised gifts and colourful button frames at Beauty & the Button, Birmingham’s charming shop for meaningful celebrations.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Madeleine
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An elegant, salon‑style cocktail bar in The Grand Hotel — famed for refined afternoon tea and meticulous cocktails in a dramatic, over‑sized parlour.
The Alchemist Colmore Row
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Experience Birmingham’s iconic Grand building transformed into a theatrical cocktail haven blending molecular magic with vibrant city nightlife.
Revolución de Cuba Birmingham
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Experience authentic Cuban vibes, vibrant cocktails, and lively salsa music in the heart of Birmingham’s city centre.
The Head of Steam Birmingham
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A vibrant city-centre pub with craft beers, over 50% vegan menu, shuffleboard, live music, and private event spaces near New Street Station.
Dirty Martini - Birmingham
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Trendy cocktail bar in Birmingham’s city center, known for stylish decor, expertly crafted drinks, and a lively party atmosphere.
Flight Club Birmingham
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Experience social darts like never before in Birmingham’s vibrant Victorian circus-themed bar with cocktails, brunch, and interactive games.
The Cocktail Club - Birmingham
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Three floors of cocktail theatre, bottomless brunches, and Birmingham nightlife magic—where sexy sips meet wild vibes until 2am.
The Trocadero
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Lively city-centre pub with great food, live sports, and a welcoming atmosphere in Birmingham’s Temple Street.
Purecraft Bar & Kitchen
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A vibrant gastropub in Birmingham blending craft beer culture with modern British cuisine in a spacious, welcoming setting.
Theatrix Birmingham
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Historic charm meets vibrant nightlife at Theatrix Birmingham, a stylish multi-floor bar and entertainment venue in the city centre.
Tilt
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Pinball paradise meets craft pours in Birmingham's City Arcade – Tilt's retro magic blended games, beers, and beats until its 2025 farewell.
Bacchus Bar
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Discover Birmingham’s medieval-inspired basement pub, where historic charm meets lively atmosphere and quality British ales.
Be At One - Birmingham
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Lively cocktail bar in Birmingham city centre with 100+ drinks, expert bartenders, and a vibrant party atmosphere.
Tonight Josephine - Birmingham
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Experience Birmingham’s boldest pink cocktail bar with creative drinks, vibrant events, and a party spirit inspired by Empress Joséphine.
Fox and Chance
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An award-winning independent cocktail bar in Birmingham, blending creative drinks with a cozy, sophisticated atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
