The first part of the Cathedral consecrated for worship was the Lady Chapel, in the south eastern corner of the main building.

You are warmly welcome to visit this remarkable and beautiful chapel and soak up the tranquil atmosphere.

Wheelchair users are able to enjoy a grand view of the reredos and principal windows from a balcony directly opposite the altar.

This position also gives a good vantage point for seeing the newly restored window depicting the Presentation of Christ in the Temple, which was storm damaged and almost collapsed on the 8th January 2005.

The Cathedral Shop sells an extensive range of books, cards and gifts plus Noble Women - Windows in the Lady Chapel filled with stunning photography. Buy online or visit the Cathedral Shop.

 

Image Gallery

Features:

  • The Chapel's style is more elaborate than the main body of the Cathedral, reflecting different approaches by the architect and his team.
  • Ornately carved lettering runs around the walls, with the verse from St. John’s Gospel (ch 3:16):
    “God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. For God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.”
  • A beautiful 15th Century statue of the Virgin Mary by Giovanni Della Robbia is cited in its sanctuary along with complementary statuette, commissioned via a donation in 2005, ‘Babe in Swaddling Clothes’ as the focus for Mary’s gaze.
  • There is a strong sense of tranquillity in the Chapel, encouraging visitors to sit for a period of quietness, prayer or reflective contemplation.
  • The Chapel has its own organ (built by Henry Willis and Sons) and is regularly used for worship, weddings (subject to Archbishop of Canterbury's limitations and conditions), and funeral services.
  • The portrait windows of noble women on the west wall of the Chapel are famous. Restored after the Second World War, they show women from different areas of life, including local heroes like Kitty Wilkinson, helper of the poor and Agnes Jones, a devoted nurse as well as nationally known figures such as Grace Darling, Elizabeth Fry and Elizabeth Barrett Browning.
  • A celebration marking the Centenary of its completion was held in June 2010, when archive material never before seen by the public was on display.