UK Cathedrals
1
Canterbury Cathedral
The Mother Church of the worldwide Anglican Communion and seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury. This UNESCO World Heritage Site dates back to 597 AD and features stunning Gothic architecture, including the famous Bell Harry Tower.
Site of Thomas Becket's martyrdom and UNESCO World Heritage Site
2
York Minster
One of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Northern Europe, York Minster dominates the city skyline. Famous for its medieval stained glass, including the Great East Window—the largest expanse of medieval stained glass in the world.
Contains the world's largest expanse of medieval stained glass
3
St Paul's Cathedral
Sir Christopher Wren's masterpiece sits atop Ludgate Hill, the highest point in the City of London. Its iconic dome has dominated the London skyline for over 300 years and witnessed historic events from Nelson's funeral to royal weddings.
Famous Whispering Gallery and stunning views from the dome
4
Durham Cathedral
A masterpiece of Norman architecture perched dramatically above the River Wear. This UNESCO World Heritage Site houses the shrine of St Cuthbert and the tomb of the Venerable Bede. Its Romanesque nave is considered one of the finest in Europe.
UNESCO World Heritage Site and filming location for Harry Potter
5
Westminster Abbey
The coronation church of England and resting place of monarchs, poets, and scientists. This Gothic masterpiece has witnessed every coronation since 1066 and contains Poets' Corner, where literary giants from Chaucer to Dickens are memorialized.
Site of royal coronations since 1066 and Poets' Corner
6
Salisbury Cathedral
Home to Britain's tallest spire at 123 metres and one of four surviving original copies of the Magna Carta. Built in just 38 years in the 13th century, it represents the purest example of Early English Gothic architecture.
Britain's tallest spire and home to original Magna Carta
7
Lincoln Cathedral
Once the tallest building in the world, Lincoln Cathedral's twin towers and central spire dominated the medieval landscape. Its Angel Choir contains the famous Lincoln Imp and some of the finest Gothic carvings in existence.
Was the world's tallest building for 238 years
8
Ely Cathedral
Known as the 'Ship of the Fens' for its commanding presence across the flat Cambridgeshire landscape. Its unique octagonal lantern tower is an engineering marvel and floods the crossing with natural light in a way no other cathedral achieves.
Unique octagonal lantern tower and Lady Chapel
9
Wells Cathedral
The first English cathedral built entirely in the Gothic style, Wells is renowned for its spectacular West Front featuring 300 medieval sculptures. The innovative scissor arches added in 1338 remain an engineering and aesthetic triumph.
Famous scissor arches and 300 medieval sculptures on West Front
10
Winchester Cathedral
One of the largest cathedrals in Europe with the longest nave of any Gothic cathedral. It houses the grave of Jane Austen and a remarkable collection of medieval floor tiles. The cathedral's history spans over 1,000 years of continuous worship.
Longest Gothic nave in Europe and Jane Austen's final resting place
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