Manchester Cathedral, officially known as the Cathedral and Collegiate Church of St Mary, St Denys and St George, is nestled in the heart of the city on Victoria Street. This Grade I listed building is the mother church of the Diocese of Manchester and the seat of the Bishop of Manchester. 

The Cathedral’s origins can be traced back to the early medieval period, with evidence of Christian worship on the site as early as the 7th century. A church dedicated to St Mary was mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086. The current structure began as a parish church in 1215, built beside the manor house of the Greslet family. Over time, it evolved through various architectural phases, reflecting the city’s growth.

In 1421, under the patronage of Thomas de la Warre and with a royal charter from King Henry V, the church was elevated to a collegiate church, establishing a community of clergy dedicated to worship and education. This transformation marked the beginning of its Gothic architectural grandeur, with significant contributions from figures like James Stanley II, who commissioned the intricate choir stalls and the famous angel-supported nave roof. 

The church was granted cathedral status in 1847 with the creation of the Diocese of Manchester. Since then, it has undergone several restorations, including major repairs after damage sustained during World War II and the 1996 IRA bombing. 

Inside, visitors are greeted by a rich array of artistic and historical treasures, including the Minstrel Angels, a consort of carved wooden angels playing medieval instruments, and a collection of 16th-century misericords, among the finest in Europe. 

Today, Manchester Cathedral is a vibrant hub of worship, culture, and community engagement, located in the heart of the city’s Medieval Quarter. It continues to serve as the spiritual home of the Diocese of Manchester and plays a central role in the city’s religious and civic life.

Worship and Services

The Cathedral offers a rich schedule of daily and weekly services that are open to all. These include:

• Morning Prayer and Holy Communion on weekdays
• Matins and Holy Communion, Cathedral Eucharist, and Choral Evensong on Sundays
• Choral Evensong is a particular highlight, featuring the renowned Manchester Cathedral Choir 

Services are often live-streamed, making them accessible to a wider audience, and the cathedral remains a place of quiet reflection and prayer throughout the week.

In addition, Manchester Cathedral hosts events for the Diocese of Manchester including ordinations, Year 6 leavers’ services, clergy ministerial development days and more.

Events

Manchester Cathedral also hosts:

• Concerts and events
• Conferences and exhibitions
• Community outreach programmes, including the Volition programme, which supports people into employment through volunteering and training 

The Cathedral is also a venue for seasonal markets, art installations, and interfaith gatherings, reflecting its commitment to inclusivity and social justice.

Cathedral Clergy

The cathedral is led by a dedicated team of clergy who ensure it remains a welcoming space for all:

• The Very Revd Rogers Govender – Dean of Manchester
• Revd Canon Dr Ian Jorysz – Canon Precentor and Sub Dean
• Revd Canon Grace Thomas – Canon Missioner
• Revd Kenson Li – Curate
• The Ven Karen Smeeton – Archdeacon of Rochdale