Cathedral of St. Philip and St. James
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The Cathedral of St. Philip and St. James, commonly known as St Philip's Cathedral, is a distinguished Church of England cathedral located in Birmingham. Originally built as a parish church between 1711 and 1715 by architect Thomas Archer in the Baroque style, it was consecrated to the Apostle Philip. The cathedral features a rectangular hall interior with classical fluted pillars and Tuscan capitals, and a distinctive lead-covered dome atop its tower. Its architecture is influenced by Italian Baroque, notably the works of Borromini, setting it apart from other English churches. The cathedral houses several stained glass windows by the celebrated artist Edward Burne-Jones, which were preserved during World War II bombings and later restored. The eastern apse was expanded in the late 19th century by J. A. Chatwin, who added a richly decorated chancel with Corinthian columns and gilded details. The cathedral also holds several heritage-listed monuments, including memorials related to local history and tragedies. It remains a significant religious and cultural landmark in Birmingham, reflecting the city's growth and historical depth.
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Tip: Visit during weekdays in spring or early autumn for less crowded experience and pleasant weather. Booking tickets in advance is advised for special services or events. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. Check official opening hours before planning your visit, as they may vary during holidays.
Interesting facts
- •The cathedral's design was influenced by Italian Baroque architect Borromini, making it unique among English churches.
- •Several stained glass windows by Edward Burne-Jones were removed before WWII bombing and reinstalled intact after restoration.
- •The cathedral's tower is topped with a lead-covered dome and a delicate lantern, a distinctive architectural feature.
- •The original cost of construction was significantly reduced due to donated materials and transport.
- •The cathedral houses heritage-listed monuments including a memorial to victims of the 1974 Birmingham pub bombings.
History
The Cathedral of St.
Philip and St.
James was constructed from 1711 to 1715 to accommodate Birmingham's growing population, replacing the smaller St Martin in the Bull Ring.
The land was donated by Robert Philips, and the church was consecrated in 1715.
It served as a parish church until 1905 when it was elevated to cathedral status following Birmingham's city status in 1889.
During World War II, the cathedral was severely damaged by bombing in 1940 but was restored by 1948, preserving key artistic features such as the Burne-Jones stained glass windows.
The building underwent further architectural enhancements in the late 19th and mid-20th centuries, ensuring its preservation and continued significance.
Place Guide
Nave and Aisles1711-1715
The interior features a rectangular hall with aisles separated by fluted classical pillars with Tuscan capitals, supporting an arcade and wooden galleries typical of English Baroque style.
Eastern Chancel1884-1888
An extension built between 1884 and 1888 by J. A. Chatwin, featuring richly decorated Corinthian columns, gilded capitals, and an ornately coffered ceiling, enhancing the cathedral's interior grandeur.
Stained Glass WindowsLate 19th century
Several windows designed by Edward Burne-Jones, including three at the eastern end and a west window dedicated to Henry Bowlby, showcase exquisite Pre-Raphaelite artistry.
Tower and Dome1725 (tower completion), 1958-1959 (refacing)
The western tower rises in stages topped by a lead-covered dome and delicate lantern, refaced in 1958-59 to preserve its structure.
