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Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King

4.6
·5k reviews·, United Kingdom

A modern architectural marvel with breathtaking stained glass and a unique circular design, offering a peaceful spiritual and artistic experience.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
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Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A modern architectural marvel with breathtaking stained glass and a unique circular design, offering a peaceful spiritual and artistic experience.

4.6
(5k reviews)

"SIMPLY WOW - I'm not a person on religion but this Cathedral was something else. It's grandeur, its presence truly invites you in."

Vertical photo
TIP

Don't Miss the Crypt

The Lutyens Crypt is a must-see for history buffs and offers a different perspective. Small fee applies.

Appreciate the Art

Take time to admire the modern stained glass and artworks; step back to see the full effect of each alcove.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Stunning Stained Glass

Stunning Stained Glass

Vibrant, modern stained glass windows create a kaleidoscope of color and light, a truly unique artistic spectacle.

Circular Architecture

Circular Architecture

The awe-inspiring circular design offers a unique perspective and a profound sense of space and grandeur.

Lutyens Crypt

Lutyens Crypt

Explore the historical crypt, housing artifacts and a chapel, offering a deeper understanding of the cathedral's past.

Contemporary Artworks

Contemporary Artworks

Discover striking works by contemporary artists, including the '14 Stages of Christ,' adding a powerful artistic dimension.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Modern Marvel

This isn't your typical gothic cathedral. Its unique circular design and vibrant stained glass offer a contemporary spiritual experience. Free entry makes it accessible, but consider a donation to support its upkeep. Reddit

Crypt Visit Recommended

While the main cathedral is free, the Lutyens Crypt has a small entry fee but is highly recommended for its historical artifacts and chapel. Check opening times as it can sometimes be closed. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Sunlight through windows
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Can’t ever help to be overwhelmed by the scale of cathedral

Don't Miss the Crypt

The Lutyens Crypt is a must-see for history buffs and offers a different perspective. Small fee applies. Reddit

Appreciate the Art

Take time to admire the modern stained glass and artworks; step back to see the full effect of each alcove. Reddit

reddit.com

Visiting Liverpool soon - any places I may have missed out worth exploring?

reddit.com

Which viewpoint is higher? Radio Tower or Liverpool Cathedral?

Free Entry, Donations Welcome

Worship is free, but donations are greatly appreciated to help maintain this magnificent building. Reddit

Walk from City Centre

It's a bit of a walk, but the journey offers great views of the cathedral's commanding position. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

Don't Miss the Crypt

The Lutyens Crypt is a must-see for history buffs and offers a different perspective. Small fee applies. Reddit

Appreciate the Art

Take time to admire the modern stained glass and artworks; step back to see the full effect of each alcove. Reddit

Free Entry, Donations Welcome

Worship is free, but donations are greatly appreciated to help maintain this magnificent building. Reddit

Walk from City Centre

It's a bit of a walk, but the journey offers great views of the cathedral's commanding position. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(5k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors are consistently awestruck by the Metropolitan Cathedral's modern architecture, vibrant stained glass, and unique circular design. Many praise its peaceful atmosphere and the welcoming nature of the staff, regardless of religious background. While the main cathedral is free, the Lutyens Crypt is a highly recommended paid addition for its historical insights.

"SIMPLY WOW - I'm not a person on religion but this Cathedral was something else. It's grandeur, its presence truly invites you in just to look. A warm welcome to look around given to ALL - free if charge - ( you can make a donation if you choose to).
It's ASTOUNDING - the architecture, the lighting, the colours, the statues - ACTUALLY EVERYTHING.
Take time to look at each alcove dedicated to different things - THEN step back far enough away to take in also the opening above it - which seems to give completion! When I noticed that myself it was quite beautiful.
The 14 stages of Christ ( I think they are called) some a little 'gruesome' (for me) but absolutely spectacular art.
The organ pipes ( ask how many - wow) then see if you can spot where the organ is!!
This circular building is profoundly beautiful and for those who follow this faith - I just can't imagine how it must make you feel.
The crypts - another incredible space and well worth the £5 charge to visit.
There IS a sense of peace, of quiet within oneself - surrounded by all of this colour, shade, light and utter brilliance. Don't miss this from your visit. Don't be put off by a faith aspect - this incredible building and the people servicing it invite EVERYONE."

Ann Ferrier

"Such a beautiful modern Cathedral. It’s very peaceful inside and so colourful due to the stunning stain glass windows. The crypt is well worth a visit, to see the chapel and learn about history of the Cathedral and all the amazing artefacts and treasures"

Geraint Lawrence

"Quite magnificent. There's no entrance fee but you can donate. It's an amazing design with the amazing stained glass windows. There is a crypt to visit but that was closed when went. And it was beautifully peaceful inside despite many visitors. Go see."

Ian Fidler

What People Like

Stunning stained glass
Unique circular design
Peaceful atmosphere

What People Dislike

Crypt sometimes closed

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The cathedral is a bit of a walk from the city center, but it's worth the effort. You can also take local buses that stop nearby. Consider walking to appreciate its commanding position. Reddit

Limited parking may be available, but it's advisable to check local parking regulations or use public transport due to its central location. Reddit

Yes, several bus routes serve the area around the cathedral, making it easily accessible via public transport from across the city. Reddit

Absolutely! It's a pleasant walk from the city center, allowing you to take in the surroundings and the cathedral's impressive exterior as you approach. Reddit

Walking up the steps to the entrance provides a great vantage point to appreciate its presence and capture stunning exterior shots. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, general entry to the main cathedral is free of charge. Donations are welcomed to support the cathedral's upkeep. Reddit

There is a small charge, typically around £5, to visit the Lutyens Crypt. This fee helps fund the preservation of the historical artifacts. Reddit

The cathedral is generally open daily, but specific hours can vary. It's best to check the official website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information, especially for the crypt. Reddit

Advance booking for the crypt is usually not required, but it's always a good idea to check their website for any special announcements or if you are part of a large group. Reddit

While generally open, visiting hours might be adjusted for services or special events. It's advisable to check their schedule beforehand. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

It's a remarkable circular building with a modern design, featuring stunning stained glass windows and contemporary artwork, a stark contrast to traditional gothic cathedrals. Reddit

Key highlights include the vibrant stained glass, the unique circular layout, the '14 Stages of Christ' artwork, and the impressive organ pipes. Reddit

It serves as both. It's an active Roman Catholic place of worship and a significant landmark, welcoming all visitors to admire its architecture and art. Reddit

You can explore the main cathedral relatively quickly due to its simple design, perhaps 30-60 minutes. Visiting the crypt will add more time. Reddit

Yes, despite many visitors, the cathedral is described as beautifully peaceful and quiet inside, offering a sense of calm. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but it's always respectful to be mindful of ongoing services and other visitors. Reddit

The areas around the stained glass windows and the central circular space offer the most dramatic photographic opportunities. Reddit

Avoid using flash photography, especially during services, and be considerate of worshippers. Reddit

The natural light filtering through the stained glass creates beautiful, colorful lighting conditions, especially in the afternoon. Reddit

Yes, walking up the steps to the entrance provides a commanding view for excellent exterior photographs. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Metropolitan Cathedral offers a visually stimulating experience for families. The vibrant stained glass windows are captivating for children, and the sheer scale of the circular building can spark imagination. While the main cathedral is free, the Lutyens Crypt, with its historical artifacts, might be more engaging for older children who can appreciate the stories behind them. Reddit

Keep in mind that it's a place of worship, so encouraging quiet behavior is important. The walk from the city center can be a good way to burn off some energy before entering. The unique architecture and colorful art provide plenty of talking points to keep younger visitors interested. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs

For history enthusiasts, the Metropolitan Cathedral is a fascinating site. Its story is one of ambition, abandonment, and eventual realization, with three previous designs for a Catholic cathedral on the site never coming to fruition. The Lutyens Crypt is a direct link to these earlier plans and offers a tangible connection to the site's past, including its time as a workhouse. Reddit

Exploring the crypt allows visitors to delve into the architectural and historical context of the cathedral's development. The contrast between the modern cathedral and the remnants of Lutyens' earlier vision provides a rich narrative for those interested in urban planning, architectural history, and the evolution of religious buildings. Reddit

🎨 Art & Architecture Lovers

This cathedral is a paradise for those who appreciate modern art and architecture. The bold circular design by Frederick Gibberd is a masterpiece of 20th-century design, offering a unique spatial experience. The extensive stained glass windows, a collaboration with artists like Patrick Reyntiens and John Piper, are a highlight, creating a breathtaking play of light and color. Reddit

Don't miss the contemporary artworks within the cathedral, such as the '14 Stages of Christ,' which showcase a different artistic sensibility compared to traditional religious art. The interplay of light, color, form, and artistic expression makes this cathedral a truly inspiring destination for anyone interested in visual arts and innovative design. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Architectural Vision

The Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King is a testament to mid-20th-century modernism, a significant departure from the traditional Gothic cathedrals often found in the UK. Its striking circular design, conceived by Frederick Gibberd, was the fourth attempt to build a Catholic cathedral on this site, with previous plans abandoned due to cost and complexity. The building's unique form is intended to create a sense of unity and direct connection between the congregation and the altar. Reddit

Inside, the cathedral is bathed in light from its expansive, contemporary stained glass windows. These aren't just decorative; they are integral to the spiritual experience, depicting biblical scenes and abstract patterns that shift with the sun's movement. The sheer scale and vibrancy of the glasswork are often cited as a major draw for visitors, creating an atmosphere that is both awe-inspiring and deeply peaceful. Reddit

Beyond the main sanctuary, the Lutyens Crypt offers a fascinating glimpse into the cathedral's history and architectural evolution. Designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, this subterranean space was part of an earlier, grander vision for the cathedral. Today, it houses a chapel and exhibits that detail the site's past, including the workhouse that once stood there, making it a valuable addition to any visit. Reddit

Artistic and Spiritual Significance

The Metropolitan Cathedral is not just an architectural marvel; it's a significant artistic and spiritual hub. It showcases works by contemporary artists, most notably the '14 Stages of Christ,' a series of powerful and sometimes challenging depictions that add a profound emotional layer to the visitor experience. These artworks, alongside the vibrant stained glass, contribute to the cathedral's unique spiritual ambiance. Reddit

Visitors often remark on the sense of peace and quiet they find within the cathedral, even amidst a crowd. This tranquility, combined with the visual splendor, creates an environment conducive to reflection. Whether one is religious or not, the sheer beauty and artistic merit of the space are undeniable, inviting contemplation and appreciation. Reddit

The cathedral actively welcomes everyone, regardless of faith. This inclusive approach is frequently highlighted in reviews, emphasizing that the grandeur and artistry are accessible and enjoyable for all visitors, making it a must-see landmark for anyone exploring the city. Reddit

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