Manchester Cathedral — Attraction in Manchester

Three Mystery Worshippers attended Manchester Cathedral on 23rd April.

What was the name of the service?

St George's Day Sung Eucharist, 10:30am

How full was the building?

Most seats were filled - probably about 90% full.

Did anyone welcome you personally?

Yes - and given service booklet.

Was your pew comfortable?

Yes.

How would you describe the pre-service atmosphere?

Bells were ringing, wedding bands were also announced. Formal, but welcoming.

What were the exact opening words of the service?

Good morning, welcome to our St George's Day service.

What books did the congregation use during the service?

St George's service booklet.

What musical instruments were played?

A magnificent organ. It was really well played. After the service we were told parts of the organ predated the second world war and survived the bombing of the cathedral.

Did anything distract you?

Our view was partially obscured by pillars which was a little annoying.

Was the worship stiff-upper-lip, happy clappy, or what?

Formal CofE hymns throughout - and as it was St George's Day, we went full patriotic with Jerusalem and the national anthem. One of us who is very patriotic absolutely loved this and gave it his all, belting out these mangificent anthems.

Exactly how long was the sermon?

12m30s

On a scale of 1-10, how good was the preacher?

We scored him 7, 5.5, and 6.

In a nutshell, what was the sermon about?

St George, before he segwayed into an encounter with the Pope. Quite a bit about patriotism.

Which part of the service was like being in heaven?

The choir, the decor, and the sense of holiness.

And which part was like being in... er... the other place?

One of us said the mention of the Pope, but this was said in jest.

What happened when you hung around after the service looking lost?

We enjoyed a really good cup of tea and had a lovely conversation with a former Warden called Jeff.

How would you describe the after-service coffee?

We all had tea and it was first rate - really good tea, probably one of the best we've had - the Anglicans really don't mess about with their tea.

How would you feel about making another visit (where 10 = ecstatic, 0 = terminal)?

8, 7, 8.

Did the service make you feel glad to be a Christian?

Thrice yes.

What one thing will you remember about all this in seven days' time?

Jerusalem! How impeccable the choir was. Overwhelming sense of pride...

My visit to Manchester Cathedral was nothing short of awe-inspiring. This historic gem, nestled in the heart of Manchester, offers an incredible blend of history, architecture, and art that left me mesmerized.

The first thing that struck me was the stunning Gothic architecture. The intricate stone carvings on the exterior set the tone for what lies within. As soon as you step inside, you are greeted by a breathtaking interior that beautifully combines medieval craftsmanship with the warmth of the modern restorations. The high vaulted ceilings, supported by ornate columns, draw your eyes upwards, creating a sense of grandeur and reverence.

One of the standout features of the Cathedral is its stained glass windows. The vibrant colors and detailed designs tell stories of faith and history, casting a beautiful, kaleidoscopic light across the stone floors. Each window is a work of art, reflecting both the past and the present.

The wooden carvings, particularly the misericords, are exquisite examples of medieval art. The craftsmanship is so detailed that each piece tells its own unique story. The choir stalls, with their intricate designs, are a testament to the incredible skill of the artisans who created them.

Another highlight of my visit was the peaceful atmosphere. Despite being in the center of a bustling city, the Cathedral offers a serene space for reflection and contemplation. The quietness of the interior, punctuated only by the soft echo of footsteps or the distant murmur of a visitor’s voice, creates a perfect environment for spiritual reflection or simply a moment of peace.

The staff and volunteers at the Cathedral were incredibly welcoming and knowledgeable. Their passion for the history and preservation of this magnificent building was evident in every conversation. They were more than happy to share insights into the Cathedral’s history and significance, which added depth to the experience.

Overall, Manchester Cathedral is a must-visit for anyone in the area, whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or someone looking for a tranquil escape in the city. It’s not just a building; it’s a journey through time, filled with beauty, art, and a deep sense of reverence. I highly recommend taking the time to explore this...

My Visit to Manchester Cathedral

My visit to Manchester Cathedral was a peaceful and inspiring experience. Located in the heart of the city near Exchange Square, this beautiful Gothic-style cathedral dates back to 1421 and stands as one of Manchester’s oldest and most historic buildings. The architecture is stunning, with tall stone pillars, intricate wood carvings, and magnificent stained-glass windows that fill the space with color and light.

Inside, the atmosphere is calm and welcoming. I admired the medieval choir stalls, carved angels, and the impressive ceiling details. The staff and volunteers were friendly and shared interesting insights about the cathedral’s history and restoration after World War II damage.

Visitor Tips: Entry is free, but donations are appreciated to help maintain the site. Photography is allowed for personal use, and guided tours are available for those who want to learn more about its past. The cathedral café and gift shop nearby are worth visiting for a short break.

How to Reach: The cathedral is located on Victoria Street, Manchester M3 1SX, just a 5-minute walk from Manchester Victoria Station and close to Exchange Square tram stop. It’s also within walking distance from major attractions like the National Football Museum and Arndale Centre.

Manchester Cathedral is a must-visit for anyone interested in history, architecture, or simply a quiet moment amid the city’s bustle — a true gem of...