St Anne’s Cathedral, also known as Belfast Cathedral, stands at the heart of the Cathedral Quarter on Donegall Street. Just a short walk from City Hall or a quick hop off at Stop 19 on the Belfast Hop on Hop off tour, it's a must-see landmark with over a century of history, faith, & architecture.
A History Set in Stone
Built on the site of an earlier church also dedicated to St Anne, the Cathedral’s foundation stone was laid in 1899 and the nave consecrated in 1904. The striking Spire of Hope, a 40-metre stainless steel addition which was installed in 2007, visible across the city skyline.
Architectural Features
Designed in a Romanesque style, the Cathedral features five massive stone pillars on each side of the nave, with round arches and large single-light windows. Carvings of the four Archangels sit high above, while an apse and ambulatory complete the eastern end.
Chapel of the Holy Spirit
Added in 1932, the Chapel of the Holy Spirit includes stained glass windows depicting the activity of the Holy Spirit, from Creation in Genesis to Revelation. Mosaics also decorate the chapel entrance and tympanum above the west door.
Lord Carson’s Tomb & The Baptistery
On the opposite side of the building is the Baptistery, featuring carvings by Rosamund Praeger. She also designed the bronze plaque above the tomb of Lord Carson, the only person buried in the Cathedral.
Stonework & Memorials
The nave's carved pillar capitals, each with unique designs, were largely created by Morris Harding. Outside, the west façade includes Esmond Burton’s carvings in memory of those lost in World War I.
Stained Glass & Mosaics
Stunning mosaics by sisters Gertrude and Margaret Martin can be found throughout, with the font mosaic alone said to contain over 150,000 glass pieces.
The nave windows depict Old Testament figures, while the east window, relocated from the original church, shows the Good Samaritan. The Chapel of Unity and Royal Irish Regimental Chapel contain more recent additions.
Titanic Pall & Textiles
Handmade tapestry cushions and kneelers add warmth throughout. The Titanic Pall, a memorial to those lost in 1912, hangs on the south nave wall when not in use.
Audio Tours
Discover the Cathedral at your own pace with a 40-minute audio tour (£4 per person). No booking is needed for individuals or small groups, but parties of 10+ should email bursar@belfastcathedral.org to check availability or arrange a guided visit.
Opening Hours
Open Monday to Saturday (9am–5.15pm, last audio tour 4.45pm) and Sunday (1pm–3pm). The Cathedral may close for weddings or special services. Visitors are also welcome for private prayer and quiet reflection outside visitor hours.
Discover Stop 19 @ St Anne’s Cathedral
Visit one of Belfast’s most iconic Cathedrals — St Anne’s in the heart of the Cathedral Quarter. Admire its stunning architecture, stained glass, and the soaring Spire of Hope. Disembark @ Stop 19 on the Belfast Hop on Hop off Tour and explore this sacred space at your own pace.
