Serving as the seat of the Bishop of Bristol, Bristol Cathedral is one of England’s most architecturally significant medieval cathedrals. Acclaimed architectural historian Nikolaus Pevsner has described it as ‘superior to anything else built in England, and indeed Europe, at the same time’. Besides functioning as a place of worship, the Grade I listed building is open to the public for history and architecture buffs to explore its Norman chapter house, Gothic Revival nave and lush monk garden.
Background on Bristol Cathedral
Founded in 1140 as St Augustine’s Abbey by Robert Fitzharding (later Lord Berkeley), it was used as a monastery for 400 years until Henry VIII’s dissolution in 1539. Three years later, the building became a cathedral when the city formed its own diocese. Despite suffering damage during the 1831 riots, which ironically led to discovering important Anglo-Saxon artwork called “The Harrowing of Hell”, the cathedral survived both civil unrest and the WWII Bristol Blitz. Today, it remains a symbol of remarkable resilience in English history.
What can you do at Bristol Cathedral?
Besides attending the daily services, visitors can explore the monk’s garden, enjoy a coffee break at the on-site coffee shop (Pinkmans Café), and even experience an array of live Candlelight concerts. The cathedral’s excellent acoustics coupled with its centuries-old history provide a unique setting for tributes to timeless classics and contemporary hits from just about every genre. Additionally, Bristol Cathedral welcomes exhibitions, storytelling sessions for children and other cultural activities for the whole family.
Curiosities
Sacred origins
Archaeological evidence suggests that the site has been sacred for over 1,000 years. The Venerable Bede — an English monk, author and scholar who wrote “Ecclesiastical History of the English People” in the Middle Ages — recorded that St Augustine of Canterbury visited the location in 603 CE. According to Bede, followers of early English Christianity also gathered here long before the abbey was built.
One of England’s earliest uses of pointed arches
The cathedral showcases one of England’s earliest uses of pointed arches in its 12th-century chapter house, the area where the cathedral chapter meets. This feature enabled thinner walls, larger windows, and a greater sense of verticality, a characteristic of Gothic architecture. In addition, the chapter house displays intricately carved patterns including chevron, spiral, lozenge, and zigzag motifs.
Notable burials at Bristol Cathedral
1. Joseph Butler, Bishop of Bristol (died 1752): famous theologian, and philosopher known for his work “Analogy of Religion”.
2. Robert Fitzharding (founder, died 1170): a wealthy merchant who founded St Augustine’s Abbey and later became the first Lord Berkeley.
3. Abbot John Newland (died 1515): most architecturally significant abbot who oversaw the nave rebuilding and the reconstruction of the cloisters, gatehouse, and various monastic buildings.
A sought-after filming location
The cathedral was featured in a number of films and tv series, including The Medusa Touch (1978), the acclaimed BBC adaptation of Hilary Mantel’s novels Wolf Hall (2015) & The Mirror and the Light (2024).
Is Bristol Cathedral Catholic or Protestant?
Bristol Cathedral is Protestant, specifically Church of England (Anglican).
Does Bristol have two cathedrals?
Yes, Bristol has two cathedrals: Bristol Cathedral (Church of England) and Clifton Cathedral (Roman Catholic).
Is Bristol Cathedral free to enter?
Admission is free by voluntary donation. Additionally, guided tours are available on Saturdays or by arrangement through the Chapter Clerk.
How to get to Bristol Cathedral?
Bristol Cathedral is easily accessible by public transportation with bus stops like College Green and Anchor Road only a short walk away. Bristol Ferry Boats also provide access to nearby stops. For those that prefer driving, College Street and Millennium Square car parks are the closest options, only a few minutes from the cathedral.
Nearby venues
Bristol Cathedral is an essential destination for history buffs and anyone interested in architecture and religion, conveniently located near prominent venues, such as We The Curious museum and Bristol Aquarium.
This historic landmark in Bristol welcomes year-round cultural events and Candlelight concerts. These captivating performances will add to its charm thanks to classical renditions of iconic songs and a newly light-filled interior. Embark on a unique musical journey through genres, from pop and rock to jazz, soul and film music.