Westminster Cathedral

Westminster Cathedral (Byzantine Architecture)

Pope John Paul II was the ‘first reigning’ Pope to visit the UK, and this occcurred during the reign of Queen Elizabeth II.

Friday 28th May 1982, Pope John Paul II visited Westminster Cathedral where he celebrated Mass and, in the afternoon, he attended a service of anointing the sick at St George’s Cathedral, Southwark.

Westminster Cathedral is the mother church of the Roman Catholic religion in England and Wales; it opened in 1903 (but construction started in 1895) and was designed by John Francis Bentley. 

In 1995, Cardinal Basil Hume, invited Queen Elizabeth II, to Westminster Cathedral, she was the first British monarch to attend a service (ecumenical) in a Roman Catholic church/cathedral in 400 years (own country).  It was the 100th anniversary of the Cathedral.

This is a ‘must see’ Cathedral, with beautiful side chapels and different types of marble. Entrance is free - but there is a small museum where you can see ‘The Treasures of Westminster’ - magnificent chalices, relics, vestments etc., admission is £5.00. 

Opening times Monday to Friday 9.30 am to 5.00 pm and open until 6.00 pm - Saturday.

Nearest tube station - Victoria - 5-minute walk to Westminster Cathedral.