Birmingham Cathedral — Attraction in Birmingham

The Cathedral Church of Saint Philip, Church of England, was planned when the nearby medieval church of St Martin in the Bull Ring became insufficient to house its congregation because of the growing population of Birmingham. The land is one of the highest points in the district and is said to be at the same level as the cross on St Paul's Cathedral in London. The construction began in 1711, to the design of Thomas Archer, and was ready for consecration in 1715, when it was dedicated to the Apostle Philip as a tribute to the benefactor Robert Philips. The tower was complete by 1725. The design, in Baroque style, is influenced by the churches of Borromini, being rather more Italianate than churches by Christopher Wren. The rectangular hall church interior has aisles separated from the nave by fluted pillars of classical form with Tuscan capitals supporting an arcade. The original shallow eastern apse was extended in 1884–88 by J. A. Chatwin into a much larger chancel, articulated by strongly projecting Corinthian columns.

The cathedral is home to a remarkable set of stained-glass windows designed by Birmingham born pre-Raphaelite artist Sir Edward Burne-Jones, who was born in nearby Bennett's Hill and baptized in the church, and manufactured by the firm of William Morris & Co. They are amazing, specially at night, when the sun comes down and you can feel the intensity of the red and orange colors... Burne-Jones met Morris at Oxford University and they became lifelong collaborators. Burne-Jones began training for the ministry but decided instead to devote his life to art. Previously Burne-Jones and Morris had designed and executed stained glass windows for St Martin’s-in-the-Bull-Ring and St Mary the Virgin in Acocks Green. The Ascension was installed in 1885 and the Nativity and the Crucifixion two years later. Burne-Jones records “it was in the year 1885 that visiting my native city Birmingham I was so struck with admiration at one of my works in St Philips’s church [that] I undertook in a moment of enthusiasm to fill the windows on either side.” His technique separates heaven from earth in each of the windows. They demonstrate Burne-Jones’ immense skill and the fine craftsmanship of William Morris & Co. They are known for their vibrancy, the life-likeness of the figures, their ability to tell a story and the inspiring and dramatic qualities.

St Philip's served as parish church from 1715 to 1905 when it became the cathedral of the newly formed Diocese of Birmingham. It’s the third smallest cathedral in England after Derby and Chelmsford. During the Second World War, the cathedral was bombed and gutted on the 7 November 1940. Its most significant treasures, the windows by Edward Burne-Jones, had been removed in the early stages of the war by Birmingham Civic Society, and were replaced, unharmed, when the building was restored in 1948.

There are notable people linked to the cathedral. Matthew Boulton, industrialist and entrepreneur and founder of the famous Lunar Society was baptized at St Philip’s in William Small; a fellow Lunar Society member and tutor to Thomas Jefferson worshipped and was buried here and is commemorated with a memorial plaque in the west end of the nave. James Keir a chemist and also part of the Lunar Society was married here in 1770. John Baskerville, the well-known printer and associate of the Lunar Society was a one time church warden at St Philips as was William Withering. Charles Gore, co founder of the Socialist Christian Movement, defender of social reform, was the fist...

Birmingham Cathedral, also known as St. Philip’s Cathedral, is a striking example of Baroque architecture located in the heart of Birmingham, England. Built between 1709 and 1715, the cathedral was originally a parish church designed by Thomas Archer. It gained cathedral status in 1905. The building is renowned for its elegant proportions, with a tower and dome that dominate the skyline. Inside, the cathedral is famous for its beautiful stained-glass windows by pre-Raphaelite artist Edward Burne-Jones, which depict scenes from the New Testament and add a vibrant touch to the serene interior.

The cathedral serves as a place of worship, community gathering, and cultural events. It offers regular services, concerts, and educational programs that engage both locals and visitors. The surrounding churchyard provides a tranquil green space in the bustling city center, inviting reflection and respite. Over the years, Birmingham Cathedral has undergone careful restoration to preserve its historic features while adapting to the needs of a modern congregation. Today, it stands as a testament to Birmingham’s rich heritage and continues to play a vital role in the spiritual and cultural life...

I visited the Cathedral on Sunday 4 December 2022. I walked from the coach drop off point outside TK Maxx in the Bullring, up Corporation St and turning into Cherry St , which is gently uphill to the Cathedral. I have reduced mobility so the walk took me approximately 15 minutes.The building is situated in a small square ,the locals have dubbed"Pigeon Park " but is actually part of Temple Row🤔! The entrance is wide and step free. The interior has rows of removable chairs which can accommodate a wheelchair. The flooring is smooth tiles throughout. On the day I visited , the service had just finished and a verger was giving an impromptu organ recital which went down well. This is very much a local church as well and after the service , the local congregation provided refreshments to anyone which was a nice touch. Above the altar are three beautiful stained glass windows which were designed by Burnes Jones and executed by William Morris. On weekdays, I am informed that a ladder is available to see the windows in detail! As this is an Anglo Catholic establishment, confession is available...