St. Anne’s Roman Catholic Cathedral (also known as Leeds Cathedral) is a small but elegant place of worship in Leeds’ downtown area. Stroll through the cathedral’s nave to admire the high altar’s splendid carvings and ornate decorations. Spend a moment at the Lady Chapel and check out the simple stonework embellishments. The cream-colored stone, yellow lights, finely wrought ceiling arches and beautiful timber carvings give the cathedral a warm radiance.
Gaze up at the magnificent façade of the Gothic-revival cathedral from its small curbside forecourt. The cathedral’s foundation stone was laid in 1901, replacing the original church that dated back to 1838. Compact and simple, the cathedral’s beautiful architecture is characterized by elegant niches and decorative stone carvings.
Walk in through the arched doors and find yourself in the wide nave and chancel. The cathedral’s interior maximizes the small site by having narrow transepts and chapels. Admire the brightly colored depictions of saints inset in the stained-glass windows in the south transept. Note the Gothic-style turrets and leaded bay windows, as well as the large crucifix sculpture. Six carved figures are integrated into the chancel arch, representing Christ and five saints. Walk up to the ornate high altar. You’ll see the lavishly decorated screens and a stunning wooden sculpture of the Virgin Mary.
You can attend mass on any day of the week. Sung masses, Latin masses and vigil masses are held regularly. You’ll hear the organist playing the cathedral’s original 1904 organ. Alternatively, visit the cathedral outside of the mass service and take your own time admiring the building’s lavish interior and quiet elegance.
St. Anne’s Roman Catholic Cathedral is situated in central Leeds, and is a 15-minute walk from Leeds Railway Station. Parking is available on the surrounding streets and in nearby parking lots. The cathedral is open daily for free, and Mass is celebrated daily. Nearby, you’ll find more stunning architectural highlights, including Leeds Town Hall, Leeds Art Gallery and Leeds City Museum.
