St Chad's Catholic Cathedral, Birmingham
A Gothic Revival masterpiece and spiritual heart of Birmingham, home to the relics of St Chad and a symbol of Catholic resurgence in England.
St Chad's Cathedral in Birmingham is a landmark of Gothic Revival architecture designed by Augustus Welby Northmore Pugin and consecrated in 1841. It was the first Catholic cathedral built in England since the Reformation and holds the relics of St Chad, the 7th-century apostle of the Midlands. The cathedral features a striking brick and Bath stone exterior, a rich interior with historic furnishings, and a memorial chapel added by Pugin's grandson. It remains a vital spiritual and cultural center in Birmingham.
A brief summary to St Chad's Catholic Cathedral
- 3540 St. Chads Queensway, Birmingham, B4 6EU, GB
- +441212362251
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Saturday 11 am-5:30 pm
- Sunday 9 am-12:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit the shrine of St Chad to see the authentic 7th-century relics and learn about the saint’s role in early English Christianity.
- Admire the intricate Gothic Revival interior designed by Augustus Pugin, including the Lady Chapel’s historic statue of the Virgin Mary.
- Look for the thanksgiving inscription on the transept ceiling commemorating the cathedral’s miraculous survival during WWII.
- Explore St Edward’s Chapel, added by Pugin’s grandson, which features stunning stained glass and memorials to key figures in the cathedral’s history.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train and Tram
From Birmingham New Street Station, take a 10-15 minute tram ride on the West Midlands Metro towards Wolverhampton, alighting at St Chads stop. The tram service runs frequently with tickets costing approximately £2.50-£4.00 one way. The cathedral is a short walk from the tram stop, but note that the area is urban and can be busy during peak hours.
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Bus
Several bus routes serve the city center, including routes 8, 11, and 63, which stop within 5-10 minutes walking distance of St Chad's Cathedral. Buses run regularly throughout the day with fares around £2.00-£3.00. Be aware that traffic congestion can affect travel times during rush hours.
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Car
Driving to St Chad's Cathedral is possible with nearby public parking options including the Bullring and NCP car parks. Expect a 10-20 minute drive from most parts of Birmingham city center, but parking can be limited and costly, typically £5-£10 for a few hours. The cathedral is located on Queensway, adjacent to busy roads, so plan accordingly.
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Walking
If staying in central Birmingham, walking to the cathedral is convenient and takes approximately 10-20 minutes depending on your starting point. The route is mostly flat but urban, with sidewalks and pedestrian crossings; suitable for most visitors including those with limited mobility.
St Chad's Catholic Cathedral 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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Low-Visibility Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about St Chad's Catholic Cathedral
A Landmark of Catholic Revival in England
St Chad's Cathedral stands as a monumental symbol of the Catholic Church's resurgence in England after centuries of suppression following the Reformation. Constructed between 1839 and 1841 under the guidance of Bishop Thomas Walsh, it replaced an earlier Georgian chapel to serve the growing Catholic population of Birmingham. The cathedral was designed by the renowned architect Augustus Welby Northmore Pugin, a pioneer of the Gothic Revival style, whose vision brought medieval ecclesiastical architecture into the 19th century. Consecrated on 21 June 1841, it was the first Catholic cathedral erected in England since the Reformation and was elevated to cathedral status in 1850 following the restoration of the Catholic hierarchy by Pope Pius IX.Architectural Grandeur and Artistic Heritage
The cathedral’s design reflects a north German 13th-century Gothic style executed in brick with Bath stone dressings, chosen for both aesthetic and economic reasons. Its south-west spire, added in 1856 by Pugin’s eldest son Edward Welby Pugin, memorializes Canon John Moore. Inside, the cathedral boasts intricate woodwork, including an oak archbishop’s throne and choir stalls designed by Pugin himself. The Lady Chapel houses a 15th-century oak statue of the Virgin Mary, restored by Pugin and likely the first such statue publicly venerated in England post-Reformation. The cathedral’s interior is richly decorated with stencilled pillars and ecclesiastical coats of arms, reflecting Pugin’s dedication to authentic medieval craftsmanship.The Shrine and Relics of St Chad
A defining feature of St Chad’s Cathedral is its shrine dedicated to St Chad of Mercia, the 7th-century bishop and apostle of the Midlands. The relics of St Chad were rediscovered in the 19th century and authenticated by Pope Gregory XVI before being enshrined in the cathedral. Radiocarbon dating confirmed the relics’ 7th-century origin, connecting the cathedral intimately with early English Christian history. The shrine’s design was inspired by medieval descriptions and remains a spiritual focal point, drawing visitors and worshippers alike.Resilience Through History and War
The cathedral has endured significant historical challenges, including damage during the Second World War. In 1940, an incendiary bomb penetrated the roof but was extinguished when it struck central heating pipes, preventing disaster. This event is commemorated by a thanksgiving inscription on the transept ceiling. In 1941, St Chad’s was designated a minor basilica by Pope Pius XII, granting it special papal privileges and symbols, such as the conopoeum and tintinnabulum, which are displayed proudly at the entrance.Memorials and Later Additions
In 1933, St Edward’s Chapel was added by Sebastian Pugin Powell, grandson of Augustus Pugin, as a memorial to Archbishop Edward Ilsley. This chapel features stained glass windows depicting the history of the relics and the cathedral’s clergy. The cathedral’s crypt, originally intended as a school, became a burial place and houses monuments to early bishops, including William Bernard Ullathorne, the first Bishop of Birmingham. Though the nearby Bishop’s House was demolished in 1959, the cathedral itself remains a vibrant center of worship and heritage.Living Heritage and Community Role
Today, St Chad’s Cathedral continues to serve as the mother church of the Archdiocese of Birmingham. It hosts regular services, cultural events, and remains a beacon of Catholic heritage in the UK. Its architectural significance, historical relics, and resilient spirit make it a must-visit attraction for those interested in religious history, Gothic architecture, and the story of Catholicism’s revival in England.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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The Ivy Temple Row
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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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
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- Photowalk
- 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
