Chelmsford Cathedral
New Street
Chelmsford
Essex
CM1 1TY
England
Website
www.chelmsfordcathedral.org.uk
office@chelmsfordcathedral.org.uk
Telephone
01245 294489
Fax
01245 294499
This is one of the smallest Cathedrals in England in one of the largest Diocese. The first church on the site of the present Cathedral was founded (as was the town of Chelmsford itself) 800 years ago. This church was dedicated to St Mary the Virgin, and was rebuilt in the 15th and early 16th centuries. It became a Cathedral in 1914.
The honey-coloured limestone floor helps to give the Cathedral its sense of space and light. The altar, the Bishop's chair (cathedra) and the font are all made from Westmorland slate.
The 15th century south porch was enriched in 1953 to mark Anglo-US friendship. The Cathedral also has links with Thomas Hooker, who was Town Lecturer in Chelmsford from 1626-29, went on to found the town of Hartford, Connecticut and has been called the Father of American Democracy.
The exterior walls are of flint rubble intermixed with blocks of building stone and brick. The tower houses a fine ring of 13 bells. On the south east corner of the church is a contemporary statue of St Peter with his fishing boots, net, fish and key.
Venue Type:
Sacred space
Additional info
There is no parking on the premises but there is a council car park nearby. Drop-in visitors are welcome in the cathedral at anytime, to have a look around. Any services, events or concerts will be advertised on the notice board outside the cathedral. Alternatively, have a look at the website for a calendar of events, prior to your visit.
