Nottingham Cathedral Church of St Barnabas
A Gothic Revival masterpiece in the heart of Nottingham, home to centuries of Catholic worship and Pugin’s architectural vision.
Standing proudly on North Circus Street, Nottingham Cathedral Church of St Barnabas is a Grade II* listed Catholic cathedral designed by Augustus Welby Northmore Pugin in the 1840s. As one of the first Catholic cathedrals built in England after the Reformation, it combines Early English Gothic architecture with a rich spiritual history. The cathedral’s striking spire, intricate stonework and beautifully restored Sacrament Chapel make it a quiet architectural gem in the heart of the city, open to worshippers and visitors alike.
A brief summary to St Barnabas Cathedral Nottingham
- Cathedral Church of St Barnabas, N Circus St, Nottingham, NG1 5AE, GB
- +441159539839
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit on a weekday morning to enjoy the cathedral in relative quiet, with soft light filtering through the stained glass and fewer crowds.
- Check the cathedral’s website for service times and special events; attending a choral Mass or concert can be a particularly moving experience.
- Take time to explore the Blessed Sacrament Chapel, widely regarded as the most ornate and visually striking part of the interior.
- Photography is usually permitted for personal use, but avoid flash and be mindful of worshippers, especially during services.
- Dress modestly out of respect for the sacred space, and be prepared for a peaceful, contemplative atmosphere rather than a bustling tourist site.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drinking Water
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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On foot from Nottingham city centre
From Old Market Square, walk south along King Street and then onto Derby Road; the cathedral is clearly visible on the left after about 10 minutes. The route is flat and fully accessible, with kerbs and crossings along the way.
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By bus
Several local bus routes serve stops near Nottingham Playhouse on Derby Road, a short walk from the cathedral. Services run frequently from the city centre and surrounding areas, with journey times of 10–20 minutes depending on origin.
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By car
Street parking is available on surrounding roads, with several public car parks within a 5–10 minute walk. The cathedral is on a busy urban road, so allow time to find a space and walk the final stretch on foot.
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By train
From Nottingham Railway Station, walk south along Carrington Street and then onto Derby Road; the cathedral is about 15 minutes away on foot, with clear signage and level pavements for most of the route.
St Barnabas Cathedral Nottingham location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about St Barnabas Cathedral Nottingham
A Gothic Revival Landmark in the City
Rising above the rooftops of Nottingham, the Cathedral Church of St Barnabas is a powerful example of Augustus Welby Northmore Pugin’s Early English Gothic Revival style. Built between 1841 and 1844, it was consecrated in 1844 as the largest Catholic church constructed in England since the Reformation, a bold statement of faith in a time when Catholic worship was still emerging from centuries of restriction. Designed for the 16th Earl of Shrewsbury and Ambrose Philipps de Lisle, the cathedral’s ashlar stonework, lancet windows and soaring 150-foot spire create a dignified presence on the corner of Derby Road and North Circus Street. Its prominent location and elegant proportions make it one of Nottingham’s most distinctive religious buildings.From Church to Cathedral
The church’s significance grew rapidly after its opening. In 1850, with the restoration of the Catholic hierarchy in England and Wales, St Barnabas was elevated to cathedral status, becoming the seat of the Bishop of Nottingham and the mother church of the diocese. The first bishop, Joseph Hendren, was enthroned here in 1851, marking the start of its role as a central place of Catholic worship and administration for much of the East Midlands. Over the decades, the cathedral has seen various interior changes, including the introduction of Italianate elements in the late 19th century and later 20th-century reforms that simplified much of Pugin’s original rich decoration, though fragments of his scheme survive and have been carefully restored.The Heart of the Interior
Inside, the cathedral’s nave stretches beneath a high, vaulted ceiling, its stone pillars and pointed arches drawing the eye toward the sanctuary. The Blessed Sacrament Chapel, often described as the jewel of the cathedral, stands out for its richly decorated interior, reflecting Pugin’s original vision of a vibrant, colour-filled sacred space. Stained glass windows from the 19th century bathe the interior in soft, coloured light, while later additions such as the shrine to St Joseph in the north transept add further layers of devotional art. Though much of the original painted scheme was covered over in the mid-20th century, conservation work has uncovered and restored some of Pugin’s decorative details, gradually bringing back a sense of the cathedral’s intended atmosphere.A Living Place of Worship
Beyond its architecture, St Barnabas remains a vibrant centre of Catholic life in Nottingham. Regular Masses, confessions and sacraments are held throughout the week, and the cathedral’s music department, with its cathedral choir and youth choir, continues a long tradition of choral worship. The building is not only a place of prayer but also a venue for concerts, recitals and community events, drawing both parishioners and visitors. Its peaceful ambience, even in the midst of the city, offers a space for quiet reflection, meditation and spiritual connection, making it more than just a historic monument.Visiting the Cathedral
The cathedral is open daily to visitors, with generous visiting hours that allow time to explore its architecture and atmosphere. Entry is free, though donations are welcome to support ongoing maintenance and restoration. Visitors are encouraged to dress modestly and to be respectful of services and private prayer. The main areas of the cathedral are generally accessible, though some older or upper sections may have limited access; those with specific mobility needs are advised to contact the cathedral in advance. Information boards and occasional guided tours help explain the building’s history, architecture and role in the life of the diocese.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
St Barnabas Cathedral Nottingham
0.0 km
A Gothic Revival masterpiece in the heart of Nottingham, home to centuries of Catholic worship and Pugin’s architectural vision.
Cathedral Hall
0.1 km
Pugin's masterpiece: England's grandest post-Reformation Catholic cathedral, where Gothic Revival vision endures.
Scale Space Nottingham
0.2 km
Experience collaboration and innovation at Scale Space Nottingham, the premier co-working space in the heart of the city, perfect for entrepreneurs and remote workers.
The Belgrave Rooms
0.3 km
Discover The Belgrave Rooms, Nottingham's premier venue for conferences and weddings, blending elegance and modern amenities for unforgettable events.
King Charles I Standard Hill Monument
0.4 km
Historic site where King Charles I raised his standard in 1642, igniting the English Civil War and shaping Nottingham’s rich heritage.
Speakers' Corner
0.5 km
Nottingham’s vibrant Speakers' Corner offers a historic platform for free speech, lively debates, and community connection in the heart of the city.
King's Walk sign
0.5 km
A pedestrianised passage where Georgian elegance meets contemporary commerce in Nottingham's historic heart.
The Left Lion
0.5 km
Meet Nottingham’s iconic Left Lion, a historic stone sentinel and beloved city landmark at the heart of Old Market Square.
Right Lion
0.6 km
Discover Nottingham’s iconic Right Lion, a historic stone sculpture and beloved meeting point near the Council House in Old Market Square.
Statue of Captain Albert Ball
0.6 km
A striking bronze tribute in Nottingham Castle Gardens honoring WWI flying ace Captain Albert Ball’s valor and legacy.
St Peter's Church, Nottingham
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A medieval sanctuary and historic gem in Nottingham’s city centre, blending centuries of architecture and community spirit.
St Nic's Church
0.6 km
Medieval survivor rebuilt from Civil War ashes, standing as Nottingham's testament to faith and resilience.
Victoria Station Clock Tower
0.7 km
A towering 100-foot clock tower preserving the grandeur and history of Nottingham's lost Victoria railway station.
The Tokenhouse
0.7 km
Explore The Tokenhouse in Nottingham for unique gifts and heartfelt treasures that capture the essence of the city.
The Spot
0.7 km
Discover Nottingham’s historic heart at The Spot, a tranquil city centre landmark blending heritage with urban life.
Unmissable attractions to see
Nottingham Playhouse
0.1 km
Bold, thrilling theatre in a modernist landmark—where regional excellence meets West End ambition.
The Park Tunnel
0.2 km
Discover Nottingham’s hidden Victorian sandstone tunnel, a unique historic passage blending architectural beauty with urban mystery.
Cryptology Escape Rooms Nottingham
0.2 km
Immersive escape rooms with innovative puzzles and theatrical game masters in Nottingham's city centre.
The Museum Of Curiosities
0.2 km
Explore Nottingham’s eerie Museum of Curiosities, where haunted artifacts, real skulls, and horror props create a spine-chilling, immersive experience.
Bell Inn
0.4 km
Step into Nottingham’s oldest pub where 15th-century beams, historic caves, and traditional ales create an unforgettable medieval atmosphere in the city’s heart.
Theatre Royal & Royal Concert Hall
0.4 km
Nottingham’s historic Theatre Royal and modern Royal Concert Hall host West End musicals, concerts, comedy and more in the heart of the city.
The Turf Tavern
0.4 km
Experience the rich history and local flavors at The Turf Tavern, Nottingham's iconic pub steeped in tradition and charm.
Axed Nottingham Axe Throwing
0.4 km
Experience the thrill of interactive axe throwing with expert coaching in Nottingham’s vibrant urban playground.
White Rose Nottingham Outlet
0.4 km
Leeds’ vibrant shopping and entertainment hub with over 120 stores, an IMAX cinema, and family-friendly outdoor play area.
The Cornerhouse
0.5 km
A dynamic Nottingham hotspot blending cinema, dining, and unique leisure activities in a vibrant city center setting.
Old Mkt Sq
0.5 km
Nottingham’s historic Old Market Square: a vibrant civic heart blending medieval roots with modern urban life and lively events.
Old Market Square
0.5 km
Discover the bustling heart of Nottingham at Old Market Square, a historical landmark rich in culture, events, and captivating architecture.
Nottingham Castle Visitors Centre
0.5 km
Gateway to Nottingham Castle’s rich history, interactive galleries, cave tours, and family-friendly adventures in the heart of the city.
Robin Hood Statue
0.5 km
Iconic bronze statue of Robin Hood beside Nottingham Castle, celebrating the legendary outlaw and Nottingham’s rich folklore heritage.
Trinity Square
0.6 km
Modern student living at Trinity Square, Nottingham’s vibrant city centre residence, steps from university and cultural hotspots.
Essential places to dine
Browns Nottingham
0.2 km
Elegant British brasserie in Nottingham’s historic heart, perfect for classic dining, afternoon tea, and special occasions.
Bar + Block Steakhouse Nottingham
0.2 km
Modern steakhouse in Nottingham’s Chapel Quarter serving expertly cooked steaks and classic British grill fare in a stylish, welcoming setting.
Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill Nottingham
0.2 km
Elegant steakhouse in Nottingham offering expertly cooked steaks, jazz ambiance, and attentive service for memorable dining experiences.
Las Iguanas - Nottingham
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and festive spirit of Latin America in Nottingham’s lively Chapel Quarter at Las Iguanas.
Casa Italian & Seafood Restaurant
0.2 km
Authentic Italian and seafood dining in Nottingham’s city centre with warm service and a welcoming atmosphere.
Warsaw Diner
0.3 km
Experience hearty American-Polish breakfasts in a lively 1950s-style diner with generous portions and bottomless coffee in Nottingham’s Derby Road.
Zaap Thai Street Food
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant streets of Bangkok through authentic Thai street food, lively atmosphere, and quirky decor in the heart of Nottingham.
Calcutta Club
0.3 km
Experience regal Indian cuisine and refined hospitality inspired by the Maharajas’ polo clubs in the heart of Nottingham.
MemSaab
0.3 km
Experience award-winning Indian fine dining in Nottingham with MemSaab’s exquisite flavors and elegant ambiance on Maid Marian Way.
Kushi-ya
0.3 km
Discover Nottingham’s hidden gem for authentic Japanese kushiyaki skewers and inventive small plates in a stylish, modern setting.
Corinthian Restaurant
0.3 km
Elegant Modern British dining in a historic Masonic Hall, offering refined dishes and exceptional value in Nottingham’s city centre.
Chino Latino
0.3 km
Savor vibrant Pan-Asian and Latino fusion dishes in a sleek, metropolitan setting at Nottingham’s award-winning Chino Latino.
Hart's Hotel and Kitchen
0.3 km
Stylish boutique hotel with contemporary comfort and acclaimed dining, set steps from Nottingham Castle in a peaceful city centre courtyard.
The Roundhouse Bar & Kitchen
0.4 km
Historic charm meets casual dining with local craft beers and hearty pub classics in Nottingham’s city centre.
Sans Patrie
0.4 km
Discover Nottingham’s Sans Patrie, where inventive tasting menus meet artistic presentation in a relaxed, inclusive fine dining setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Happy Sunday Vintage & Antiques
0.3 km
A joyful vintage boutique in Nottingham offering bold fashion, unique antiques, and a welcoming atmosphere for vintage lovers.
OH DUCK IT
0.4 km
Dive into duck-tastic humor and Nottingham dialect delights at this cheeky gift shop, where quirky souvenirs and local crafts quack up the city's shopping scene.
The Bead Shop (Nottingham) Limited
0.4 km
A vibrant independent bead and craft shop in Nottingham’s historic Market Street, offering expert workshops and a vast range of jewellery-making supplies.
ChicChoiceHub
0.4 km
Discover Eastern elegance on Nottingham's historic Standard Hill at ChicChoiceHub, where oriental treasures meet Civil War legacy in a treasure trove of Asian artistry and crafts.
Common Choice
0.4 km
Curated fashion finds on Nottingham's historic Standard Hill—unique clothing blending trends, quality, and local flair for effortless style.
Shop Zero
0.4 km
Nottingham’s zero-waste shop championing sustainable living with refillables, reusable goods, and community-driven eco-consciousness.
White Rose Nottingham WR6
0.5 km
Discover thoughtfully curated vintage and recycled fashion at White Rose Nottingham WR6, where style meets sustainability in the city’s historic heart.
Handmade Nottingham
0.5 km
Discover unique handmade treasures from UK designers in Nottingham’s vibrant gift shop at 8 King's Walk.
Parallel Universe
0.6 km
Discover Nottingham’s vibrant retro collectibles shop filled with vintage games, toys, comics, and nostalgic treasures in a quirky, welcoming setting.
Primark
0.6 km
Explore vast, affordable fashion and home goods at Primark Nottingham, a lively city centre store with accessibility and style for all.
Tutu urban boutique
0.6 km
Discover Nottingham’s stylish independent ladieswear boutique offering unique, high-quality fashion from emerging designers in a charming city centre arcade.
Vivienne Westwood
0.6 km
Discover bold British fashion and iconic accessories at Vivienne Westwood’s Nottingham boutique in historic Flying Horse Walk.
Bubble Vintage
0.7 km
Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion treasures at Bubble Vintage, Nottingham’s vibrant vintage clothing shop in The Exchange.
Urban Outfitters
0.7 km
Eclectic fashion, vintage finds, and creative homewares in Nottingham's vibrant shopping heart.
WAREHOUSE
0.7 km
Discover contemporary women's fashion at WAREHOUSE inside Nottingham’s vibrant Victoria Centre, blending style and convenience in the city heart.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Tap & Tumbler
0.3 km
Nottingham’s legendary rock pub with live music, real ales, and a quirky, welcoming atmosphere in the city’s cultural heart.
Bunk
0.3 km
Quirky basement cocktail bar serving bold wings and inventive drinks in Nottingham's electric city center hideaway.
Six Richmond House
0.3 km
Elegant cocktails and modern British dining blend seamlessly in Nottingham’s intimate and stylish Six Richmond House.
Cucamara
0.3 km
Lively late-night cocktail bar in Nottingham’s Hurts Yard, blending vibrant atmosphere with creative drinks and social energy.
400 Rabbits
0.3 km
Intimate Hurts Yard cocktail bar specialising in tequila and mezcal cocktails with a theatrical, cosy atmosphere.
The Stage Pub Nottingham
0.3 km
Traditional Nottingham pub with live music, cosy nooks, and late-night vibes near Theatre Royal – perfect for drinks, dancing, and city-centre camaraderie.
Malt Cross
0.4 km
Historic Victorian music hall pub in Nottingham offering award-winning ales, live music, and a vibrant community atmosphere in a stunning heritage setting.
Slug & Lettuce - Market Square Nottingham
0.4 km
Vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant in Nottingham’s Market Square, known for lively atmosphere, diverse menu, and all-day 2-4-1 cocktails.
Revolución de Cuba Nottingham
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Havana with authentic Cuban cuisine, cocktails, and live Latin music in the heart of Nottingham.
O'Neill's Market Square Nottingham
0.4 km
Lively Irish pub in Nottingham's Market Square: pub grub, live sports, DJ nights, and pints in a buzzing city-centre spot that parties till late.
Crafty Crow
0.4 km
A vibrant Nottingham pub offering innovative vegetarian dishes and a diverse craft beer selection near the historic Castle.
The Bierkeller Nottingham
0.5 km
Experience lively Bavarian beer hall vibes with authentic brews, live Oompah bands, and festive fun in Nottingham’s city centre.
Slug & Lettuce - Cornerhouse Nottingham
0.5 km
A lively cocktail bar and restaurant in Nottingham’s Cornerhouse, blending classic British dishes with vibrant social energy and modern style.
The Alchemist Nottingham
0.5 km
Ignite your senses in Nottingham's alchemical lair, where molecular cocktails erupt in spectacle and inventive dishes fuel unforgettable nights on King Street.
Ye Olde Salutation Inn
0.5 km
Step into Nottingham’s oldest pub, where medieval history meets lively rock vibes and ghostly legends in a welcoming atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
CRISIS
0.2 km
Experience Nottingham’s legendary live music and nightlife at Rock City, a vibrant venue with a rich history and dynamic club nights.
Rock City
0.3 km
Experience Nottingham’s iconic live music and nightclub venue, where legendary acts and vibrant club nights come alive in an intimate, energetic setting.
Rescue Rooms
0.3 km
Nottingham's intimate live music powerhouse: raw gigs, electric crowds, and beats till 3am in a historic nook.
VIBES NIGHTLIFE
0.3 km
Dive into Nottingham's pulsating party hub where weekend beats, neon lights, and vibrant crowds fuel epic nights until 2am—pure vibes unleashed.
Stealth
0.3 km
Nottingham's drum and bass dynamo: world-ranked beats, epic nights, and unrelenting energy since 2004 in the heart of Goldsmith Street.
Tunnel Club
0.3 km
Loud. Intimate. Disruptive. Dive into Nottingham's raw underground beats at this city-center nightclub powerhouse.
ICON
0.4 km
A compact, DJ-driven late-night club on St James’s Street — small footprint, high-energy nights and a tight city-centre atmosphere.
Unit 13
0.5 km
Dive into Nottingham's underground bassline haven at Unit 13, where industrial beats and stellar DJs fuel unforgettable warehouse raves.
Love zoo
0.5 km
Dive into Nottingham's electrifying beats at Love Zoo, where house rhythms, dazzling lights, and cocktail-fueled nights create pure nightlife magic on Weekday Cross.
Popworld - Nottingham
0.6 km
A neon-soaked, singalong pop-club in Nottingham city centre — colourful cocktails, nostalgic anthems and compact dancefloor energy.
The Bodega Nottingham
0.8 km
Intimate two-level live-music bar and late-night club on Pelham Street — gritty, affordable and centred on close-up gigs and local sounds.
Tantra Night Clubs
0.8 km
Dive into Nottingham's electric nightlife at Tantra Night Clubs, where pulsating beats, dazzling lights, and stylish vibes create unforgettable nights of dance and discovery in the city center.
The Cell
0.8 km
Dive into Nottingham's pulsing heart at The Cell, where affordable drinks, diverse beats, and Hockley's electric vibe fuel unforgettable nights of dance and discovery.
Ocean Nightclub
0.8 km
Unpretentious beats and dazzling lights fuel all-night dances at Nottingham's go-to multi-room nightclub on Greyfriar Gate.
Eleven
1.0 km
A lively, multi-bar nightclub in Nottingham’s Hockley district, famed for great cocktails, student nights, and an intimate yet energetic party vibe.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- Cultural Heritage
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Historic
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Mindfulness
- Meditation Spot
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
