Overview
St Columb’s Cathedral sits proudly on London Street in the walled city of Derry, Northern Ireland. Dedicated to Saint Columba, the 6th‑century Irish monk who spread Christianity to Scotland, the cathedral is a cornerstone of the city’s spiritual and cultural life. It is the first Anglican cathedral erected in Britain and Ireland after the Reformation, and its striking Planter’s Gothic façade makes it a must‑see landmark for history lovers and architecture enthusiasts alike.
History
The story of St Columb’s begins on the site of the medieval “Big Church” (An Teampall Mór). That earlier cathedral was destroyed during the Nine Years’ War and later used to build Derry’s city walls. In 1628 the Honourable The Irish Society commissioned William Parrot of London to design a new place of worship. Construction finished in 1633, making St Columb’s the first Protestant cathedral in the British Isles after the Reformation.
The building has undergone several key alterations:
- 1802 – the tower was completed; a new spire was added around 1821.
- 1861‑62 – a comprehensive interior remodel introduced oak nave work and removed the old square pews.
- 1887 – the chancel was finally added, fulfilling the original 17th‑century plan.
- 1910 – the Chapter House was built, providing space for clergy and choir.
- 2011 – a full restoration returned the stonework and stained‑glass to their former glory.
Throughout its life the cathedral has been a silent witness to Derry’s turbulent past. During the Siege of Derry (1688‑89) the spire was stripped for musket balls, and a boy named James McGregor famously climbed the tower to fire a cannon signalling the siege’s end. Today the cathedral houses the original city keys, a hollow mortar ball used by Jacobite forces, and a collection of regimental flags that tell the story of the city’s resilience.
What to See & Do
- Stained‑glass windows – ranging from Victorian memorial panes to modern commemorations, each window bathes the nave in coloured light.
- The oldest peal of bells in Ireland – eight bells presented by Charles I in 1638 still ring on special occasions; the sound can be heard echoing over the city walls.
- Historical artefacts – silver communion plate, the original keys of Derry, a facsimile exhibition of the Book of Kells, and portraits of William of Orange.
- Memorials – notable monuments include a tribute to Valentine Munbee McMaster VC and a plaque for Bishop William Nicolson.
- Audio guide – a multilingual (English, French, Spanish) heritage audio guide is available on‑site for a deeper narrative.
- Chapter House – opened in 1910, it offers a quiet space to reflect on the cathedral’s ecclesiastical heritage.
The cathedral’s location also makes it an ideal starting point for exploring Derry’s famous 17th‑century walls, the nearby Siege Museum, and the vibrant streets of the city centre.
Nearby attractions
- Bogside – the historic neighbourhood famous for its political murals and the Free Derry Corner, just a short walk from the cathedral.
- Derry City Walls – a complete 17‑kilometre circuit surrounding the city, offering panoramic views and access to several historic gates.
- The Museum of Free Derry – located on John Street, providing insight into the city’s recent history.
Visitor tips
- Audio guide timing – the guide can be collected at the entrance; allow 20‑30 minutes to explore the main interior and the Chapter House.
- Photography – flash is prohibited inside the cathedral to protect the stained‑glass; non‑flash photography is permitted.
- Service times – the cathedral hosts daily worship services; visitors may wish to check the website for service schedules to avoid overlap with touring hours.
- Accessibility – while the nave and chancel are level, the historic porch steps can be a minor obstacle; staff are happy to provide assistance.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
| Season | Days | Opening Times |
|---|---|---|
| March – October | Monday – Saturday | 09:00 – 17:00 |
| November – February | Monday – Saturday | 10:00 – 14:00 |
The cathedral remains closed to visitors on Sundays, but worship services are held throughout the week.
Admission
| Visitor Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| General public | Free (donations welcomed) |
| Group tours | Rates on request – advance booking required |
| School & youth groups | Free (pre‑booking encouraged) |
Getting There
The cathedral is a short walk from the main bus stop on the city walls (within 100 m). Parking is available on‑street and in a public car park 250 m away. The nearest train station, Derry Londonderry, is also 250 m from the entrance.
Contact & Online Resources
- Website: https://www.stcolumbscathedral.org/
- Phone: 028 7126 7313
- Audio guide: available on‑site in English, French and Spanish.
Accessibility
St Columb’s provides level access to the main nave and chancel, as well as accessible toilets within the building. Additional accessible facilities are located nearby. Wheelchair users will find a smooth path from the entrance through the nave, though the historic porch steps may present a minor obstacle; staff are on hand to assist.
Visitor Highlights
- Historic significance – first post‑Reformation Anglican cathedral in the British Isles.
- Cultural treasures – original siege artefacts, oldest Irish bell peal, and a rich collection of stained glass.
- Family‑friendly – free entry, engaging audio guide, and ample space for children to explore safely.