Last weekend I visited my son Richard in London and we went to see a Son et Lumiere show at Westminster Cathedral. Luminescence told the story of the cathedral using light projection and classical music with a live orchestra. The history of the church was narrated by Hugh Bonneville who is better known for Paddington bear and Downton Abbey.
Most visitors to London have heard of Westminster Abbey but Westminster Cathedral gets much less attention. When I visit London I usually catch the coach from Bristol to Victoria Coach station. I then take a short walk and catch a bus from outside the Cathedral to his flat. I have always been intrigued by the design which is very different from the Anglican cathedrals we have visited recently.
✨ Westminster Cathedral: London’s Hidden Architectural Treasure ✨
When people think of London’s great churches, Westminster Abbey often steals the spotlight. But just a short walk away stands another masterpiece — Westminster Cathedral, the largest Catholic church in England and Wales, and a place where history, faith, and artistry meet in breathtaking harmony.
A Cathedral with a Story
Completed in 1903, Westminster Cathedral is dedicated to the Most Precious Blood of Jesus Christ and serves as the seat of the Archbishop of Westminster. Designed by architect John Francis Bentley, its striking Byzantine Revival style sets it apart from the Gothic spires we often associate with British cathedrals. The exterior’s bold red-and-white brickwork and towering campanile make it instantly recognisable — and utterly photogenic.
Step Inside: A World of Mosaics and Marble
The interior is a feast for the senses. Vast marble columns, intricate floor patterns, and shimmering gold mosaics create an atmosphere that feels both grand and intimate. Interestingly, much of the mosaic work remains unfinished, giving visitors a rare glimpse into the artistry in progress. Each chapel tells its own story, from the Chapel of St. Gregory and St. Augustine to the Chapel of St. George and the English Martyrs.
The Tower View You Can’t Miss
For a small fee, you can take the lift up the 64-metre-high campanile. From the top, London stretches out in every direction — a panoramic view that rivals many of the city’s more famous observation points.
A Living Place of Worship
Unlike some historic landmarks, Westminster Cathedral is not just a museum piece. It’s a vibrant, working church with daily Mass, choral music, and community events. The choir, renowned worldwide, fills the space with ethereal sound that lingers long after the last note fades.
Visiting Tips
- Opening Hours: Generally open daily, but check ahead for service times.
- Photography: Allowed in most areas, but be respectful during services.
- Quiet Moments: Early mornings or late afternoons are perfect for peaceful reflection.
Why You Should Go
Westminster Cathedral is more than a building — it’s a living testament to craftsmanship, devotion, and the enduring beauty of sacred spaces. Whether you’re drawn by faith, architecture, or simply curiosity, it’s a London experience that will stay with you long after you leave. Unlike other cathedrals I have visited recently entrance is free.
If you would like to book tickets for Luminescence this link will take you to the website. To find out more about the Cathedral itself.
