St Marie's Cathedral, Sheffield: A Gothic Revival Jewel of Faith and History
Discover Sheffield’s Gothic Revival masterpiece, St Marie's Cathedral, a serene sanctuary rich in history, art, and community spirit.
St Marie's Cathedral in Sheffield is a magnificent Gothic Revival Catholic cathedral completed in 1850. It stands as a symbol of Catholic revival in the city, featuring stunning stained glass, intricate woodwork, and a towering spire. Located in the city centre, it offers visitors a peaceful atmosphere for reflection amid rich architectural and historical significance.
A brief summary to St Marie's Cathedral, Sheffield
- Cathedral House, Norfolk St, Sheffield, Sheffield City Centre, Sheffield, S1 2JB, GB
- +441142722522
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit on weekday mornings for a quieter, more peaceful experience.
- Take time to admire the stained glass windows that illuminate the interior with vibrant colors.
- Respect the active worship services by maintaining silence and avoiding flash photography.
- Explore the Lady Chapel and other smaller chapels for intimate moments of reflection.
- Check the cathedral’s website for information on choral concerts and special events.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
Sheffield city centre is well served by buses and trams stopping near Norfolk Street. From Sheffield railway station, a 10-15 minute walk through the city centre leads to the cathedral. Bus fares typically range from £2 to £4 depending on route and operator.
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Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services like Uber provide direct access to Cathedral House on Norfolk Street. Travel time from Sheffield station is approximately 5-10 minutes. Typical fares range from £5 to £10 depending on traffic.
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Walking
If staying nearby in Sheffield city centre, the cathedral is accessible on foot via paved urban streets. Walking times vary from 5 to 20 minutes depending on your location. The terrain is flat and suitable for wheelchairs.
St Marie's Cathedral, Sheffield location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about St Marie's Cathedral, Sheffield
Origins Amid Religious Persecution
The roots of St Marie's Cathedral trace back over 300 years to a discreet Catholic chapel hidden within a house built by the Duke of Norfolk in Fargate. During a time when Catholicism was outlawed in England, this secret chapel allowed worship under threat of fines or death. By the early 19th century, as religious tolerance grew, a modest chapel was built in the garden behind the house, marking the beginning of an open Catholic presence in Sheffield.Architectural Masterpiece of the 19th Century
Completed in 1850, St Marie's Cathedral was designed by renowned local architect Matthew Ellison Hadfield, inspired by medieval European churches and the Gothic Revival style. The cathedral features pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and an ornate spire dominating Sheffield’s skyline. Its interior is richly decorated with stained glass windows by William Wailes and Hardman & Co, a finely crafted alabaster reredos, and intricate woodwork reflecting the craftsmanship of the era.Evolution Through Time and Community
St Marie's was built to serve Sheffield’s growing Catholic population, bolstered by Irish and European immigrants during the Industrial Revolution. The church was consecrated in 1889 after the building costs were fully paid. Throughout the 20th century, the cathedral underwent restoration and liturgical reordering, notably in the 1970s following Vatican II reforms, which introduced a new altar facing the congregation and modernized lighting.Spiritual and Cultural Heart of Sheffield
Designated the cathedral of the Diocese of Hallam in 1980, St Marie's remains an active place of worship, hosting daily Masses and community events. Its peaceful ambiance invites quiet reflection, while its choir and rare Lewis Organ enrich the cathedral’s cultural life through concerts. The cathedral also serves as a welcoming hub fostering a strong sense of community and faith.Artistic Treasures and Sacred Spaces
Visitors can admire the cathedral’s stained glass windows that cast colorful light across the interior, depicting biblical scenes and saints. The Lady Chapel, formed in the late 19th century, and other chapels provide intimate spaces for prayer. The high altar and sanctuary showcase exquisite Gothic Revival artistry, including works commissioned from the workshop of George Myers, a favorite of A.W.N. Pugin.Location and Visitor Experience
Situated in Sheffield city centre on Norfolk Row near the Crucible and Lyceum theatres, the cathedral is easily accessible and surrounded by eateries and cultural venues. Entry is free, and visitors are encouraged to maintain a respectful quietness during services. The cathedral’s blend of spiritual significance, architectural beauty, and historical depth makes it a must-visit landmark in Sheffield.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Green Police Box
0.1 km
Sheffield’s unique green and white police box, a charming relic of early 20th-century policing, stands proudly outside the Town Hall as a symbol of local heritage.
The Museum
0.2 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere at The Museum, Sheffield's beloved pub and restaurant, where local flavors meet a lively social scene.
Sheffield War Memorial
0.3 km
A solemn and iconic Grade II* listed cenotaph in Sheffield city centre, honoring the city's wartime sacrifices with striking sculptures and historic symbolism.
Crucible Stack
0.6 km
Explore Sheffield’s iconic Crucible Stack, a rare industrial landmark embodying the city’s pioneering steelmaking heritage and architectural resilience.
Iron Bridge
0.8 km
Explore Sheffield’s iconic Iron Bridge, a stunning early 20th-century iron landmark offering rich industrial heritage and scenic riverside views.
The Chimney House
0.9 km
Award-winning industrial-chic venue in Kelham Island offering intimate events with exceptional food and warm hospitality in Sheffield.
Wicker Arches
0.9 km
A dramatic Victorian railway viaduct running beneath Sheffield city centre, now home to workshops, bars and street art in a gritty, atmospheric urban space.
Godfrey Sykes Memorial
1.5 km
Victorian design genius immortalised in terracotta—Sheffield's tribute to a master craftsman.
Friesday Belgian Fries
1.8 km
Savor authentic Belgian fries in a cozy diner atmosphere at Friesday Belgian Fries, the perfect quick bite in Sheffield.
Rose Garden
2.3 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Sheffield's Rose Garden, a lush oasis of vibrant blooms and serene pathways perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Sheffield Manor Lodge
2.3 km
Experience the historical charm and scenic beauty of Sheffield Manor Lodge, a premier events venue and heritage site in Sheffield.
Bear pit
2.3 km
Victorian heritage meets natural history at Sheffield's finest surviving bear pit, a Grade II listed landmark within beloved botanical gardens.
Lost & Found Sheffield
2.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Lost & Found Sheffield, a charming bar and pub with creative cocktails, delicious food, and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Well Sheffield
2.5 km
Explore The Well Sheffield, a vibrant Baptist church in Sharrow, blending rich community spirit with stunning architecture and cultural events.
The Beer House
2.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and extensive beer selection at The Beer House, Sheffield's favorite pub for locals and visitors alike.
Unmissable attractions to see
Fargate
0.1 km
Sheffield’s vibrant pedestrian precinct blending historic charm, lively markets, and modern urban culture in the city centre.
The Chocolate Factory
0.1 km
Discover Yorkshire’s first bean-to-bar craft chocolate factory where artisan passion meets rich cacao heritage in Sheffield’s vibrant Harvest Works.
The Montgomery
0.1 km
A vibrant Sheffield City Centre theatre and art centre offering diverse performances and cultural exhibitions in a charming architectural setting.
Victoria Hall
0.1 km
Historic Methodist landmark and vibrant events venue at Sheffield city centre’s cultural heart on Norfolk Street.
Sheffield Christmas Markets
0.1 km
Sheffield's festive celebration of local traders, alpine charm, and seasonal magic across the city centre.
Starbucks Coffee
0.1 km
A welcoming Starbucks coffeehouse in Sheffield’s Tudor Square, blending global brand comfort with local cultural vibrancy.
Crucible Theatre
0.1 km
Experience world-class theatre and iconic snooker in Sheffield’s intimate and historic Crucible Theatre.
Fronteer Gallery
0.1 km
Independent artist-led gallery showcasing thought-provoking contemporary art in Sheffield City Centre.
Winter Garden
0.1 km
A verdant urban sanctuary: Europe's largest glasshouse brings tropical paradise to Sheffield's heart.
Cutlers' Hall Hospitality
0.1 km
Victorian grandeur meets modern event excellence in Sheffield's most prestigious banquet hall.
Sheffield Town Hall
0.1 km
Discover the architectural splendor and rich history of Sheffield Town Hall, a must-visit landmark in the heart of Sheffield City Centre.
Orchard Square
0.1 km
A vibrant open-air shopping and leisure destination in Sheffield, blending retail, culture, and community in a historic city-centre setting.
Changing Places Toilet
0.2 km
Sheffield's accessible changing facility for people with complex care needs in the city centre.
Graves Gallery
0.2 km
Free art sanctuary above Sheffield's Central Library, showcasing centuries of British and European masterpieces in peaceful contemplation.
Sheffield Winter Garden
0.2 km
A stunning tropical glasshouse oasis in Sheffield city centre, home to over 2,500 exotic plants and free to explore year-round.
Essential places to dine
VeroGusto
0.0 km
Experience authentic Italian fine dining in a cozy Georgian townhouse with exquisite homemade dishes and an exceptional wine list in Sheffield.
Miller & Carter Sheffield City
0.1 km
Experience premium British steakhouse dining with expert cuts, elegant ambiance, and attentive service in Sheffield’s vibrant city centre.
Mama’s & Leonies
0.1 km
Experience hearty Italian classics and warm hospitality in the heart of Sheffield City Centre at Mama’s & Leonies.
Ego Mediterranean Restaurant & Bar, Sheffield
0.1 km
Modern Mediterranean dining with gluten-free and vegan options, friendly service, and a vibrant bar in Sheffield City Centre.
Humpit- The Hummus & Pita Bar
0.2 km
Affordable vegan Mediterranean delights in Sheffield’s city centre, specializing in hummus, pita, and falafel with generous portions and fresh flavors.
wagamama sheffield city centre
0.2 km
Discover fresh, bold Asian flavours and a welcoming communal vibe at Wagamama in Sheffield’s vibrant Leopold Square.
Caffe Piazza
0.2 km
Authentic Italian pizzas and Mediterranean dishes served fresh daily in Sheffield’s vibrant city centre cafe.
Piccolino Sheffield
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and chic alfresco dining in the heart of Sheffield’s Millennium Square at Piccolino.
Grazie
0.2 km
Experience authentic Southern Italian flavors with fresh handmade pasta and warm hospitality in the heart of Sheffield City Centre.
Cubana Tapas Bar
0.2 km
Experience authentic Cuban tapas, vibrant Latin music, and lively salsa dancing in the heart of Sheffield’s city centre.
The Botanist Sheffield
0.2 km
A lush, botanical-themed bar and restaurant in Sheffield city centre offering inventive cocktails, hearty meals, live music, and a vibrant social scene.
La Bottega
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian craftsmanship and artisanal flavors in the heart of Sheffield City Centre at La Bottega.
Bella Italia - Sheffield St Paul's
0.2 km
Classic Italian dining with warm service and diverse menu options in Sheffield’s vibrant city centre.
Browns Sheffield
0.2 km
Elegant British brasserie in Sheffield city centre offering classic and contemporary dishes in a refined, inviting atmosphere.
COSMO All You Can Eat World Buffet Restaurant | Sheffield
0.3 km
Explore over 150 dishes from around the world at COSMO Sheffield’s vibrant all-you-can-eat buffet in the city centre.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bird’s Yard Sheffield
0.1 km
A compact, owner-curated Aladdin’s cave of local makers and quirky design-led gifts in the heart of Sheffield.
skytrend
0.1 km
Explore Sheffield's Skytrend Jewellery Store for exquisite craftsmanship and unique pieces that capture the essence of elegance.
Sheffield Makers
0.1 km
Discover Sheffield's handmade soul in the Winter Garden: unique gifts from local makers, blending craft heritage with fresh creativity.
Søstrene Grene
0.4 km
Discover Scandinavian charm and creative inspiration at Søstrene Grene, Sheffield’s boutique for art supplies, home décor, and unique gifts.
Ryan Vintage
0.4 km
Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion treasures at Ryan Vintage, Sheffield’s premier vintage clothing boutique in the city centre.
Glass Onion Sheffield
0.5 km
Explore Sheffield’s premier vintage clothing store blending sustainable fashion with stylish, curated collections in a unique urban setting.
Sheffield Convenience Store
0.5 km
Your go-to convenience store in Sheffield City Centre for snacks, drinks, and travel essentials, open late night for all your needs.
Preloved Kilo
0.5 km
Discover vintage treasures priced by weight at Preloved Kilo, Sheffield’s vibrant hub for sustainable and stylish pre-loved clothing.
Mint (New name coming soon)
0.5 km
Discover Sheffield City Centre’s eclectic boutique blending fashion, jewelry, and unique local treasures on vibrant Division Street.
Rocky Horrors
0.5 km
Discover bold rock-inspired boots and shoes at Rocky Horrors, Sheffield’s iconic alternative footwear shop in the city centre.
The Alternative Store
0.6 km
Sheffield's fiercely independent hub for unique streetwear, hats, and jewellery since 1992—quality alternative fashion with local flair and eco-conscious craft.
Vulgar
0.6 km
Explore Sheffield’s vibrant vintage scene at Vulgar, a uniquely decorated shop with friendly service and eclectic fashion finds.
The Savage Sister
0.6 km
Discover rare vintage designer treasures from the '90s and '00s in Sheffield’s stylish and sustainable boutique, The Savage Sister.
True North Store
0.6 km
Discover Sheffield’s craft spirit heritage at True North Store, a hub for artisan gins and unique local gifts in the heart of the city centre.
Shady Gifts
0.6 km
Bold, handmade sarcastic and drag-themed gifts in Sheffield’s vibrant city centre, perfect for unique and cheeky presents.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Head of Steam Sheffield
0.1 km
A converted Victorian bank turned busy craft‑beer pub on Tudor Square — big beer list, good vegan choices and a social, theatre‑friendly vibe.
Public
0.1 km
Quirky underground cocktail haven in a repurposed Victorian toilet—creative drinks, intimate vibes, and Sheffield's inventive spirit in every sip.
Cheap Dates
0.1 km
Affordable cocktails and lively vibes await at Sheffield’s beloved dive bar, Cheap Dates, in the heart of Orchard Square.
The Champagne Bar
0.1 km
A stylish city centre champagne bar offering classic cocktails and fine wines in Sheffield’s vibrant heart.
All Bar One Sheffield
0.2 km
Stylish Sheffield wine bar on Leopold Street for tapas, cocktails, brunch, and urban vibes near theatres and shops.
Bamboo Door
0.2 km
A vibrant tiki-themed cocktail bar in Sheffield City Centre, famed for exotic rum drinks and lively late-night vibes.
The Dove & Rainbow
0.2 km
Sheffield’s vibrant rock pub with live music, cold ales, and an inclusive atmosphere in the heart of the city centre.
Kuckoo Sheffield
0.3 km
Inventive cocktails and pulsating beats define this Leopold Square gem, where Sheffield's nightlife ignites in a whirlwind of creativity and energy.
Yates - Sheffield
0.3 km
Sheffield's all-day dynamo: daytime pub grub and sports, nighttime DJ beats and cocktails in the city centre buzz.
Slug & Lettuce - Sheffield
0.3 km
Vibrant Sheffield cocktail bar where every hour feels like happy hour—brunch by day, cocktails and dancing by night in stylish city centre surrounds.
The Three Tuns, S1
0.3 km
A vibrant traditional pub in Sheffield City Centre, famed for excellent ales, hearty food, and lively karaoke and comedy nights.
Trippets Lounge Bar
0.5 km
Sheffield's intimate jazz lounge where live music, gins, and tapas-style plates create an unforgettable evening retreat in the city centre.
Rutland Arms
0.5 km
Sheffield’s beloved city centre pub offering world-class craft beers, inventive pub grub, and a vibrant, inclusive atmosphere.
Frog & Parrot
0.6 km
Lively British pub and live music venue in Sheffield City Centre, known for quality ales, traditional food, and vibrant nightlife.
BrewDog Sheffield
0.6 km
Discover BrewDog Sheffield, a lively craft beer bar with a spacious beer garden, modern industrial style, and an impressive selection of brews in the heart of Sheffield.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Tank
0.2 km
A gritty, late‑night underground club on Arundel Gate — loud sound, house and techno nights, and a compact, rave‑style dancefloor.
The Viper Rooms
0.4 km
Sheffield's stylish split-level nightclub: upscale cocktails on the terrace lounge, eclectic beats on the dancefloor—dress sharp for urban nights that pulse till dawn.
Popworld - Sheffield
0.4 km
A vibrant nightclub in Sheffield city centre, Popworld offers lively pop beats, affordable drinks, and a welcoming party atmosphere every weekend.
Plot 22
0.5 km
Immerse in Sheffield's underground beats at Plot 22: no phones, pure rave energy, techno to jungle in an intimate 120-cap haven.
ONYX Nightclub Sheffield
0.5 km
Dive into Sheffield's raucous nightlife at ONYX, where neon quirks, bass-heavy beats, and cheap thrills fuel epic nights till dawn in the city centre.
Fez Sheffield
0.5 km
Dive into Sheffield’s vibrant electronic dance scene at Fez, the city centre’s intimate nightclub with pulsating beats and dazzling laser shows.
Code Sheffield
0.5 km
Sheffield's ultimate nightclub: massive dance floor, six bars, LED lights, and epic nights till 6am—student favorites and global DJs collide in city-centre chaos.
Al Ahsa Night Club
0.5 km
Dance the night away at Al Ahsa Night Club, Sheffield's premier disco destination for unforgettable nightlife experiences.
The Leadmill
0.6 km
Sheffield's 40-year heartbeat of live music, club nights, and comedy in a gritty, immersive venue near the station—where crowds roar and nights ignite.
Corporation
0.7 km
Sheffield’s iconic nightclub with non-stop dance beats and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city centre.
The Night Kitchen
0.7 km
Dive into Sheffield's industrial heartbeat at The Night Kitchen, where former cutlery factory walls pulse with electronic beats until dawn in a raw, inclusive nightlife haven.
Dempseys Bar and Club
0.9 km
Sheffield's enduring gay bar and club: two floors of drinks, dances, karaoke, and late-night energy from noon till dawn in the city centre.
Temple Sheffield
1.0 km
Dive into Sheffield's underground heartbeat at Temple Nightclub, where beats thump till 6am, drinks flow affordably, and nights ignite with raw energy.
Waikiki Beach Bar
16.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Waikiki Beach Bar, Derbyshire's go-to destination for dancing, drinks, and unforgettable memories.
Volt Nightclub
18.9 km
Experience Barnsley's vibrant nightlife at Volt Nightclub, where lively music, dazzling lights, and affordable drinks create unforgettable nights.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
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
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Mindfulness
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly