Among the many things to see in Manchester a site that should be on every visitor’s itinerary is the Manchester Cathedral. Located in central Manchester, this medieval place of worship is considered to be representative of the Perpendicular Gothic mode of construction. The cathedral is still used as a functioning church today.

Despite major developments in the Victorian era encompassing extensive expansion, restoration and refurbishment, as well as repair after it suffered bomb damage in more recent times, the major sections of the cathedral date to the period of James Stanley’s wardenship from 1485-1506.

With the origins of the cathedral stretching back to 1421, it is thought that a Saxon church existed at the site many centuries ago. The cathedral is dedicated to St Denys, St Mary and St George; it was accorded cathedral status in the year 1847 and presently functions as the seat of the Bishop of Manchester.

A side chapel is devoted to the Manchester Regiment and retains its former colours. In 1868 a large tower was added to the church, which houses ten bells which are sounded during Sunday church services.

The cathedral is a highly popular major tourist attraction with its exquisite carvings, splendid stained-glass windows and the broadest nave of its type in Great Britain. Among its most significant features are its wood carvings, some of which are found in the underside of the hinged seats known as misericords, which feature medieval legends and tales. Other carvings are present throughout the church, many of them displaying masterly artistry. The exterior of the church features a golden Madonna and stone gargoyles.

The recently completed visitors’ centre functions as a church and is also used as a venue for exhibitions, concerts and multimedia events.