St Edmundsbury Cathedral — Attraction in West Suffolk

St Edmundsbury Cathedral, or the Cathedral Church of St James and St Edmund, in Bury St Edmunds has existed in one form or other on the site since at least 1065 but only became a cathedral in 1914. Originally dedicated to St Denis, the first church on the site was built some time before the middle of the 11th century in the precincts of the Abbey. The Abbey at Bury St Edmunds had been in use for at least three centuries before this itself. In the 12th century, Abbot Anselm rebuilt the church and dedicated it to St James after a failed attempted along the Way of St James to Santiago de Compostela. Anselm was also responsible for the abbey gate tower, known today as the Norman Tower. Significant rebuilding started in 1503. Master mason John Wastell, whose portfolio included the fan vaulting at both King’s College, Cambridge and Peterborough Cathedral, updated the church to the Perpendicular Gothic style. Further works were undertaken in the 18th and 19th century, including the stunning hammerbeam roof and a new chancel by George Gilbert Scott. The church was granted cathedral status in 1914 but the rebuilding works did not stop. In 1959, the Victorian chancel was replaced entirely, with a pair of transepts and a suite of little side chapels added around it. The large Gothic revival Millennium Tower was added in 2000 with funding from Millennium Commission, completed in 2005. Other little chapels and the treasury were built between 2009 and 2012. It is easy to tell the newer sections apart. The lines are far cleaner, the stone surfaces still look new and largely unblemished. The ceilings of the chancel and transepts are painted to look similar to Gilbert Scott’s gilded nave roof but retain some...

Bury St Edmunds Cathedral is a true gem that beautifully bridges centuries of history and modern community engagement. This 11th Century church, while renovated over the years, has retained its timeless charm and architectural splendor.

The meticulous maintenance of the cathedral is evident in every corner, preserving not only its physical grandeur but also the spiritual essence it holds. Stepping inside, you can feel the weight of history and the serenity that comes from centuries of devotion.

Beyond the cathedral’s walls lie the breathtaking gardens, a haven of tranquility and natural beauty. These gardens are not just a sight to behold; they are a multifaceted space cherished by the community. From playgrounds where children’s laughter fills the air to a serene bird sanctuary that lets you connect with nature, there’s something for everyone here.

One of my favorite aspects of these gardens is their versatility. You can enjoy a leisurely stroll, indulge in a peaceful meal, or simply find a quiet spot to contemplate life’s wonders. It’s a testament to how this space has evolved to cater to the diverse needs of its visitors.

The warm embrace of the community envelops Bury St Edmunds Cathedral and its gardens, making it a true treasure for locals and visitors alike. Whether you seek solace, historical enrichment, or a place to create cherished memories, this cathedral and its surroundings offer it all. Highly recommended!

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Amazing! Can't believe I have never visited this marvellous place before. The ceiling has been given one heck (can't say 'hell' - blasphemy!) of a paint job - must have taken ages. (I'll stick to rolling with Durex. D'oh! I mean Dulux [blushes] lol) The puritans probably wouldn't have approved of the painstakingly ornate nature, but what did they know? It was frankly a mind blowing experience and I even threw £2 in the box. Would be great to see a concert there, hear a choir, the natural acoustics etc. Very good local attraction. I will be taking my Canon for the optical zoom and capture more of the details next time (Canonised photos, if you will. The angels are in the detail, as I like to say...) Lovely surrounding gardens too, the nesting birds were singing in the hedges, so nice. The experience will offer a solid slice of divinity, in our bittersweet and fragile world. Apparently the cakes in the cafe are...