Blackburn Cathedral

Feel the past around you on a visit to Blackburn Cathedral in the centre of this Pennine Lancashire town. See the sun stream through the 56 different panes of coloured glass in the lantern tower with its aluminium spire. Come and listen to the world class Walker organ at one of the Cathedral’s ambitious concerts or accompanying one of the six choirs which broadcast regularly for the BBC.

Transport yourself back to the bell-ringers of over 350 years ago as you listen to the peal of the 10 bells still rung in the “full circle” style today. In the north transept the 15th century misericords remind us of the days when these “mercy seats” provided some level of comfort for the those who had to stand for long periods of prayer.

All this time travel certainly works up an appetite so it’s time to stop for a bite to eat in the uniquely atmospheric surroundings of the Cafe in the Crypt, then refreshed, take your time in the shop next to the cafe where you can purchase postcards to send home or souvenirs to remember your visit to this fine example of religious heritage.

• The cathedral is open half an hour before the act of worship each day and closes after Evening Prayer or Evensong.
• Blackburn Cathedral still retains its status as a parish church.
• Although the current building was completed in 1967, the site has been home to a church for over 1,000 years and the church, which was built in 1826 now forms the cathedral's nave.
• The bells were cast by Messrs John Taylor of Loughbrough in 1949.
• A brief leaflet of welcome to the cathedral and a leaflet introducing The Journey are available at the rear of the Nave.
• Group visits are welcome and are available in the following areas:
The history of Blackburn Parish Church and Cathedral;
The religious meaning of the building and its furnishings;
Works of art and objects of interest or curiosity in the building;
Meditative tour of The Journey - a set of fifteen life-size paintings by Penny Warden and one of the most important artistic commissions made by any cathedral in recent years which retell and evoke the story of the end of Christ’s life.