Bradford Cathedral
Bradford Cathedral
4.5
9:00 AM - 9:30 AM, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, 5:30 PM - 6:15 PM
Monday
9:00 AM - 9:30 AM
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
5:30 PM - 6:15 PM
Tuesday
9:00 AM - 9:30 AM
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
5:30 PM - 6:15 PM
Wednesday
8:15 AM - 9:30 AM
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
5:30 PM - 6:00 PM
Thursday
9:00 AM - 9:30 AM
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
5:30 PM - 6:00 PM
Friday
9:00 AM - 9:30 AM
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
5:30 PM - 6:00 PM
Saturday
9:00 AM - 9:30 AM
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
5:30 PM - 6:00 PM
Sunday
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
10:30 AM - 11:45 AM
6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
About
Bradford's beautiful Cathedral is a hidden jewel waiting to be discovered. Set in tranquil gardens the Cathedral is alive with a sense of story from its thirteen centuries at the heart of the city. This, the third church on the site, is over 500 years old, with twentieth century additions. Bradford's most ancient place of worship is friendly, peaceful and fascinating, with many special features. The Cathedral is home to some of William Morris' earliest stained glass: there is bronze and embroidery designed by Ernest Sichel: sculpture by Flaxman, Alan Collins and John Shaw: impressive windows and delightful woodcarvings: and an active arts programme provides a rich feast of drama, exhibitions and literary events to please the eye and inspire the imagination.
Suggested duration
1-2 hours
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
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4.5
147 reviews
Excellent
92
Very good
42
Average
8
Poor
2
Terrible
3
Richard W
1 contribution
Mar 2023 • Solo
Far too dedicated to progressive liberal woke orthodoxy. Christianity should be about shaping culture not being shaped by it. Standard C of E unfortunately.
Written 25 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Gwyneth D
1 contribution
Oct 2023 • Solo
Lovely cathedral with interesting history! Greeted instantly by a friendly gentleman who ensured I picked up the right brochure and gave me a chance to ask any questions I might have had (I didn’t have any, but I’m sure he could have answered them if I did)
Seemed to be quite a bit going on- some folks having coffee, some singing I think was a morning prayer, and what looked to be a floor tour, along with something that might have been weaving.
As a massive appreciator of stained glass, it was nice to be able to see the details relatively up close. I’m not sure if the ceilings had been recently repainted or if they’ve just held up well, but they were lovely. Also nice to see some of the old, old elements, such as the staircase to nowhere and the sheers.
Also loved the QR scan bits- always fun to be able learn a bit more on the spot. Also loved the information about windrush individuals, and the history of the Ugandan Asians- something I was unaware of until that moment.
Definitely worth a wander around.
Seemed to be quite a bit going on- some folks having coffee, some singing I think was a morning prayer, and what looked to be a floor tour, along with something that might have been weaving.
As a massive appreciator of stained glass, it was nice to be able to see the details relatively up close. I’m not sure if the ceilings had been recently repainted or if they’ve just held up well, but they were lovely. Also nice to see some of the old, old elements, such as the staircase to nowhere and the sheers.
Also loved the QR scan bits- always fun to be able learn a bit more on the spot. Also loved the information about windrush individuals, and the history of the Ugandan Asians- something I was unaware of until that moment.
Definitely worth a wander around.
Written 31 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for visiting and leaving your review - we're glad you enjoyed your visit, and we hope to see you again in the future.
Written 1 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
DaveThomasLeicester
Leicester732 contributions
Oct 2023 • Couples
The man who showed us around was fantastic. Interesting, interested and informative. What a lovely cathedral - great tour guide. The stunning part was the immigrant experience scrap book and the families enjoying a lunch and play time. A true jewel in the heart of Bradford.
Written 25 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for leaving your review - and we hope to see you again at Bradford Cathedral soon!
Written 26 October 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Cathy
Holmfirth, UK3 contributions
Oct 2023 • Couples
This is a wonderful gem in the centre of Bradford. The William Morris stained glass is worth a visit in itself.
The Wednesday organ recital at 1pm is not to be missed: fabulous uplifting music played by visiting accomplished organists on the amazing and recently restored organ. Check the website for the details of Wednesday @One Organ Recital programme.
The Wednesday organ recital at 1pm is not to be missed: fabulous uplifting music played by visiting accomplished organists on the amazing and recently restored organ. Check the website for the details of Wednesday @One Organ Recital programme.
Written 11 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for leaving your review and for joining us for the organ recital. We hope to see you again soon!
Written 13 October 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Trek22407785906
1 contribution
Oct 2023 • Friends
A small group visited this beautiful cathedral earlier in the week when the sun shone, enhancing the stained glass windows beautifully. Our guide, Maggie Myers, was brilliant, enthusiastic, informative and certainly over-ran the proposed time for the tour; she enlightened us with numerous nuggets of information.There was so much to see and I would certainly recommend a tour or if that isn't practical, go on your own.
Written 8 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your kind words and for coming to see the Cathedral. We hope to see you again soon.
Written 19 October 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Lynn T
1 contribution
Oct 2023 • Friends
Well worth a visit, especially on a Wednesday for the superb buffet (£4) at 12.30pm, before an organ recital at 1pm. (free but donation welcome)The winter programme started today and continues until 13th December. Lots of friendly people and/ or plenty of leaflets will give you any information you may need about this lovely old Cathedral.
Written 4 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for visiting and for leaving your review. We hope to see you again at one of our upcoming organ recitals - our chat with next week's organist will be on our website and social media later today!
Written 5 October 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Andrew H
Hebden Bridge, UK97 contributions
Oct 2023 • Friends
A friendly and warm cathedral, full of interest. Dating from the 15th Century it's been extended over the years, the latest major works being in the 1960s by the architect Maufe - famous for Guildford Cathedral.
The stained glass is intriguing, and includes work by the Arts and Crafts Artist and Designer William Morris. Try and find his 'soft self-wounding pelican!'
The organ deserves a mention. It's a multi-use instrument, equally capable of accompanying the choir as it is of being a concert organ. In fact it's attending a recent organ recital that inspired me to write this review!
Above all, the cathedral gives the impression of being at the heart of the community. It may lack the 'wow' factor of some of our massive gothic cathedrals, but what it lacks in size, it amply makes up for in charm and history.
The stained glass is intriguing, and includes work by the Arts and Crafts Artist and Designer William Morris. Try and find his 'soft self-wounding pelican!'
The organ deserves a mention. It's a multi-use instrument, equally capable of accompanying the choir as it is of being a concert organ. In fact it's attending a recent organ recital that inspired me to write this review!
Above all, the cathedral gives the impression of being at the heart of the community. It may lack the 'wow' factor of some of our massive gothic cathedrals, but what it lacks in size, it amply makes up for in charm and history.
Written 4 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for visiting and leaving your review - we hope to see you again soon!
Written 9 October 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
TheJowett1234
4 contributions
Oct 2023 • Friends
Our friend is following the Pilgrim's passport and visiting as many cathedrals as she can. As part of this we were invited to visit Bradford, though local to us in Ilkley we only had vague memories of one past visit. We were greeted by Maggie who with style, enthusiasm and great depth of interesting knowledge engaged us with many tales, insights and hidden gems in a 90 minute whirlwind of a tour. She even wound in 50th birthday references. The First World War window, masons' marks, local weaves and tales of an eccentric mathematician were highlights. True Bradford grit came through. Highly recommended.
Written 3 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for visiting and for your kind words. We hope to see you again soon.
Written 19 October 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
permia
Ireland40,654 contributions
Jun 2023 • Couples
An impressive long history as a place of worship shines through in the great edifice on the outside and the beautiful interior.
Standing at the rear, it is an inspiring vista along the beautiful nave and central aisle. Bounded by light hued arches, lunettes and columns, it leads to the glorious altar. This has a background triptych of lovely stained glass relating Biblical excerpts.
A wonderful ceiling of dark wood is a crowning feature. Sonorous music is provided by a fine organ. Vibrant stained glass windows throughout bring in an iridescent illumination in addition to providing arrays of Holy Images.
Standing at the rear, it is an inspiring vista along the beautiful nave and central aisle. Bounded by light hued arches, lunettes and columns, it leads to the glorious altar. This has a background triptych of lovely stained glass relating Biblical excerpts.
A wonderful ceiling of dark wood is a crowning feature. Sonorous music is provided by a fine organ. Vibrant stained glass windows throughout bring in an iridescent illumination in addition to providing arrays of Holy Images.
Written 20 June 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for visiting and for leaving such a beautiful review.
Written 21 June 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
jaso
2 contributions
May 2023 • Family
Went to visit as part of a stroll through little Germany. Noticed how tranquill the grounds were and was able to admire the fabulous architecture from outside.
As we entered, we were greeted by a welcomer, Robert. He gave us some informative leaflets and a trail booklet which helped my 12 year old teen keep suitably entertained and gave her a good reason to look around. We were free to look around at the awe inspiring windows and carvings inside and Robert checked in on us every so often and gave us some history about the place and some of the prominent features so almost a personalised tour which was a wonderful surprise. This really brought the place to life for us.
Mike, was equally welcoming and offered us refreshments which the kids were most receptive towards. We definitely felt like we were being shown around a church that the volunteers were proud to be part of and getting acquainted with the people of the place really brought the building and it's context to life. There were some kids activities going on at the same time and we were also invited along to participate although time did not permit. The friendly knowledgeable human engagement and the welcome really sets this place apart form other cathedrals we have visited. It was a great way to spend some time and learn a bit of history about Bradford.
Robert even took the trouble to dig out a sticker as a reward for my daughter completing the Pelican spotting trail. She is gladly adding that to her box of 'stickers from cathedrals and historical places'.
Bradford Cathedral have definitely got something right.The kids' moaning stopped as soon as we entered the building and didn't recommence until we were off the grounds!
As we entered, we were greeted by a welcomer, Robert. He gave us some informative leaflets and a trail booklet which helped my 12 year old teen keep suitably entertained and gave her a good reason to look around. We were free to look around at the awe inspiring windows and carvings inside and Robert checked in on us every so often and gave us some history about the place and some of the prominent features so almost a personalised tour which was a wonderful surprise. This really brought the place to life for us.
Mike, was equally welcoming and offered us refreshments which the kids were most receptive towards. We definitely felt like we were being shown around a church that the volunteers were proud to be part of and getting acquainted with the people of the place really brought the building and it's context to life. There were some kids activities going on at the same time and we were also invited along to participate although time did not permit. The friendly knowledgeable human engagement and the welcome really sets this place apart form other cathedrals we have visited. It was a great way to spend some time and learn a bit of history about Bradford.
Robert even took the trouble to dig out a sticker as a reward for my daughter completing the Pelican spotting trail. She is gladly adding that to her box of 'stickers from cathedrals and historical places'.
Bradford Cathedral have definitely got something right.The kids' moaning stopped as soon as we entered the building and didn't recommence until we were off the grounds!
Written 30 May 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for visiting and for all your kind words, which we've passed onto our volunteers. We hope to see you again soon - and good luck with the sticker collection!
Written 5 June 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Bradford Cathedral
- Bradford Cathedral is open:
- Sun - Sun 08:00 - 09:00
- Sun - Sun 10:30 - 11:45
- Sun - Sun 18:00 - 19:00
- Mon - Tue 09:00 - 09:30
- Mon - Tue 17:30 - 18:15
- Mon - Sat 10:00 - 16:00
- Wed - Wed 08:15 - 09:30
- Wed - Sat 17:30 - 18:00
- Thu - Sat 09:00 - 09:30
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- Restaurants near Bradford Cathedral:
- (0.17 mi) Bangkok Thai Restaurant
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- (0.14 mi) Napoleons Casino & Restaurant, Bradford
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- (0.08 mi) Marks & Spencer