Donegall St, Belfast BT1 2HB

St Anne’s Cathedral, Belfast


St Anne's Cathedral, also known as Belfast Cathedral, is a Church of Ireland cathedral in Donegall Street, Belfast, Northern Ireland. It is unusual in serving two separate dioceses. It is the focal point of Belfast's Cathedral Quarter.

Location

About



St Anne’s Cathedral, also known as Belfast Cathedral, is a beautiful and historic landmark located in the heart of Belfast, Northern Ireland. This magnificent structure is a must-see for any tourist visiting Belfast, as it offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s rich history and culture.

Built in the late 19th century, St Anne’s Cathedral was designed by renowned architect Sir Thomas Drew in the Gothic Revival style. The cathedral boasts impressive architecture, with stunning stained glass windows, intricate carvings, and towering spires that can be seen from miles away. Its towering 40-meter spire, which dominates the city skyline, is particularly impressive and is one of the most recognizable features of Belfast’s skyline.

Visitors to St Anne’s Cathedral can explore the building’s many beautiful features and artifacts, including its ornate organ, which has over 4,000 pipes and is considered one of the finest in Ireland. The cathedral also features a magnificent mosaic, depicting the Ascension, which covers the entire ceiling of the nave. Additionally, the cathedral’s intricate stained-glass windows, which were created by master craftsmen, offer a fascinating glimpse into the city’s history and culture.

One of the most interesting features of St Anne’s Cathedral is its connection to the Titanic. The cathedral’s architect, Sir Thomas Drew, also designed the Harland and Wolff shipyard where the Titanic was built. The cathedral’s Titanic Memorial, which features the names of all those who perished on the ill-fated ship, is a poignant reminder of the tragedy that befell the city.

Visitors to St Anne’s Cathedral can attend daily services, including Evensong, which takes place every day at 5:30 pm. The cathedral also hosts a range of musical events throughout the year, including concerts and recitals, which offer visitors the opportunity to enjoy the cathedral’s beautiful acoustics.

In addition to its religious significance, St Anne’s Cathedral is also an important cultural landmark in Belfast. It has been the site of many important events throughout the city’s history, including the investiture of the first Governor of Northern Ireland, Lord Craigavon, in 1921. The cathedral also played an important role in the peace process, hosting a service of reconciliation in 2007, which was attended by former President Bill Clinton.

In conclusion, St Anne’s Cathedral is a must-see for any tourist visiting Belfast. Its stunning architecture, beautiful stained-glass windows, and rich history make it a fascinating and memorable attraction. Whether you are interested in religious history, architecture, or simply want to experience the culture of Belfast, a visit to St Anne’s Cathedral is sure to be a highlight of your trip.

Gallery

Things to do nearby

St Anne's Cathedral, located in the heart of Belfast, Northern Ireland, is one of the most significant landmarks in the city. As a tourist visiting this magnificent cathedral, you'll be pleased to know that there are numerous places and things to do nearby. Here's a list of some of the best things to do and see in the vicinity of St Anne's Cathedral.

Visit the Ulster Museum
The Ulster Museum is situated in the Botanic Gardens, which is just a short walk away from St Anne's Cathedral. The museum has a vast collection of art, history, and natural science exhibits, including the iconic Game of Thrones tapestry. The museum is free to enter, and you can easily spend a whole afternoon exploring the various galleries.

Explore the Titanic Quarter
The Titanic Quarter is a 15-minute walk from St Anne's Cathedral and is home to the Titanic Belfast museum, which is a must-see for anyone visiting Belfast. The museum tells the story of the ill-fated RMS Titanic, which was built in Belfast. The Titanic Quarter is also home to a wide range of restaurants, bars, and cafes, making it an excellent place to grab a bite to eat.

Stroll through St George's Market
St George's Market is just a 10-minute walk from St Anne's Cathedral and is one of Belfast's oldest attractions. The market has been operating since 1896 and is home to over 250 traders selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. The market is open on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays and is a fantastic place to pick up some souvenirs.

Take a Black Cab Tour
Black Cab Tours are a popular way to see the city and learn about Belfast's history. The tours are conducted by local guides who will take you to see some of the city's most famous landmarks, including the murals in the Shankill and Falls Road areas. The tours last around 90 minutes and are a great way to get a feel for the city's culture and history.

Visit the Crumlin Road Gaol
The Crumlin Road Gaol is a 20-minute walk from St Anne's Cathedral and is one of Belfast's most popular tourist attractions. The Gaol is a former prison that was in use from 1845 until 1996 and has since been converted into a museum. The museum offers guided tours, and visitors can explore the cells, execution chamber, and underground tunnel that connects the Gaol to the courthouse across the road.

In conclusion, St Anne's Cathedral is located in a prime location in Belfast, surrounded by many exciting places to visit and things to do. Whether you're interested in history, art, or culture, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Don't forget to take your camera, as there are plenty of photo opportunities to capture your memories of Belfast.

Opening Hours

Tuesday 10 am–4 pm
Wednesday 10 am–4 pm
Thursday 10 am–4 pm
Friday 10 am–4 pm
Saturday 10 am–4 pm
Sunday Closed
Monday 10 am–4 pm

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