Features

History

Carlisle Cathedral has a long and turbulent history. It started life as a Norman Priory Church in 1123, but became a cathedral in 1133.

The building was damaged by fire in 1292 and much of the nave was destroyed in the Civil War, however it use as a church was continued until 1870.

In 1797, the novelist Sir Walter Scott was married there and in 1949, the cathedral became a memorial chapel for the Border Regiment which is based at the Cathedral.

About the cathedral

Today, the cathedral is home to carvings, artwork and treasures.

The East Window (48 x 30 feet) is one the finest examples of 14th century stained glass windows in the country. Under the window is a 'piscina', where, before the Reformation, the priests washed their hands.

Interesting features

According to historical legend, the bowels of Richard The Lionheart are interred in the cathedral.

In the Fratery, you will find an apartment ascended by three steps supposed to have been a confessional - it contains a stone chair.

Carving of George Russell on the wall

The paintings on the screens in the aisles of the nave show scenes in the lives of St Augustine, St Anthony, and St Cuthbert.

The 14th Century ceiling in the chancel is made from thin wooden planks. The ornate deep blue paintwork and vaulting hides the fact that more delicate than many cathedral ceilings.

Don't miss

If you visit the cathedral, look out for these unusual features:

• In the chancel, look up at the carved capitals of the columns. They represent activities associated with the months of the year - see if you can work out what they are!
• Outside, look high up at the side of the building, close to East Window. One of the gargoyles is a policeman - look for his helmet!
• Next to the policeman is the only gargoyle in the UK which wears glasses! It's a carving of the sculptor himself.

View from the top of the cathedral

The Abbey

The Cathedral lies within the Abbey, a gated area off Castle Street. Also in the area are the Fratery (or refectory), the Reqister Office, the Deanery, and the Prebendaries' houses.

The Abbey Street entrance gate was erected in 1528. It bears an inscription over the inner arch:
"Orate pro anima Christopheri Slee, Prioris, qui primus hoc opus fieri incipit. Anno Domini, MDCCVIII".

It translates as: 'Pray for the soul of Christopher Slee, founder, who first began construction of this building. 1708 AD' - that's our  school Latin so please email if we're wrong!

Visiting

The cathedral is open daily and there is a cafe and shop on the premises.

Contact details:
Carlisle Cathedral Office
7 The Abbey
Carlisle
Cumbria
CA3 8TZ
Tel: 01228 548151