Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral — Local services in London

Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral in London

The Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral of the Holy Family in Exile is a historically, religiously, and culturally significant landmark in London, highly recommended for those interested in experiencing the Ukrainian community and Eastern Catholic traditions.

Location and Architecture

Located on Duke Street in Mayfair, London, this cathedral serves as the center of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church in the UK. The building showcases distinctive Romanesque architecture with beautiful icons and historic architectural beauty. Designed by Alfred Waterhouse in the 19th century, it holds Grade II* listed status, recognizing its exceptional historical value.

Religious and Cultural Significance

The cathedral functions as the spiritual heart of the Ukrainian community in Britain. Following the 2022 Russian-Ukrainian conflict, it has gained particular attention as a place of solidarity and prayer. The interior is decorated according to Eastern Catholic traditions, and daily masses are celebrated, primarily conducted in Ukrainian language with services in various languages.

Visitor Experience

While most services are conducted in Ukrainian, which may present a language barrier for some visitors, the cathedral offers a profound sense of peace and beauty that transcends linguistic boundaries. It provides an authentic opportunity to experience Ukrainian faith and culture, making it a meaningful destination for both religious pilgrims and cultural enthusiasts.

The cathedral stands as a testament to the resilience and devotion of the Ukrainian diaspora in London, offering visitors a unique glimpse into Eastern Catholic liturgical traditions and...

Originally a congregational chapel by the renowned Victorian architect, Alfred Waterhouse, the building was transformed into a beautiful cathedral for the Ukrainian Catholic Church - more or less diametrically opposite theologically. Waterhouse was a leading figure in the Victorian Gothic revival (the Natural History Museum is, perhaps, his best known masterpiece) but remained eclectic in his approach. The overall look is prescient as the church, ostensibly, looks like a semi-Byzantine effort - especially its large rounded cupola echoing Westminster Cathedral.

For those who don't know the history, the Ukrainian Catholic Church celebrates an orthodox liturgy but is in full communion with the Roman Catholic Church. So all Catholics are welcome to take communion.

Take time for your visit as the ikonostasis is quite beautiful and each icon tells a story. Of course, the sadness is that the church represents a people who are the victims of aggressive war. A Ukrainian flag adorns the doors and a gentle appeal inside for aid and prayer is moving.

So do visit this place of quiet and peace, a welcome diversion from the bustle of Oxford Street and only a few...

I lived in the parsonage of this church in 1957 and 1958. The lady who rented out rooms in the parsonage (which had several floors of cubicles for young ladies) held seances on Sunday evenings. She was Ukrainian and brought me to weekly services in the lovely old church. I ran a travel agency called Study Abroad for Americans who wanted to travel to the UK and set up their accommodations, transportation, meals, and concerts/plays, etc. My office was two doors down from a nightclub where American actor and tango dancer George Raft was the concierge for owners, famously flipping a coin with his fingers at the door of the nightclub. Dr....