The most beautiful English cathedrals: our must-see selection

England boasts some of the most beautiful cathedrals in Europe. Witnesses to nearly a thousand years of history, they impress as much by their architecture as by their role in British heritage.

From the majestic York Minster to the iconic Canterbury Cathedral, each building tells a part of England's history. Whether you're passionate about Gothic architecture, medieval history, or simply looking for exceptional places to visit during a trip, these cathedrals are well worth a stop.

Why visit English cathedrals?

Far more than just religious buildings, English cathedrals are true architectural treasures.

UP TO YOU

What kind of traveler are you for? The most beautiful English cathedrals "?

5 quick questions to see what suits you best.

Question 1 of 5

In a castle, you look first…

The history of the placeThe architecture and decor

Question 2 of 5

Would you prefer to visit…

A must-haveA more discreet location

Question 3 of 5

During the visit?

With a guideAt your own pace

Question 4 of 5

Which setting appeals to you the most?

An impressive fortressA house with beautiful gardens

Question 5 of 5

What do you like to feel?

Understanding what happened hereTo transport you to another era

In particular, you’ll be able to discover:

• Some of the oldest stained glass windows in Europe.
• Impressive Gothic vaults.
• Perfectly preserved cloisters.
• Historical libraries.
• Exceptional panoramic views from their towers.

Some still host daily services today, while others offer concerts, exhibitions, or guided tours.

York Minster

Located in the heart of York, York Minster is probably the most famous cathedral in England.

Its construction spanned more than 250 years and its immense Gothic facade dominates the entire city.

Don't miss it:

• The famous medieval stained glass windows.
• The Chapter House.
• The Roman underground tunnels.
• Climbing the tower offers a spectacular view of York.

Si vous passez quelques jours dans la région, profitez-en également pour découvrir les ruelles médiévales de York et son riche patrimoine historique. Horaires et tarifs sont indiqués sur le site officiel de York Minster.

Canterbury Cathedral

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Canterbury Cathedral is the seat of the Anglican Church.

It is world-renowned for the assassination of Thomas Becket in 1170, an event that made Canterbury one of the main pilgrimage sites of the Middle Ages.

Its blend of Romanesque and Gothic architecture makes it an unmissable visit during a stay in Kent.

Salisbury Cathedral

It's impossible to miss the slender silhouette of Salisbury Cathedral.

It has:

• The tallest spire in England at 123 meters.
• One of the four original copies of the Magna Carta.
• One of the largest cloisters in the United Kingdom.

The cathedral is also renowned for its peaceful surroundings and magnificent gardens.

Durham Cathedral

Dominating the River Wear, Durham Cathedral is considered one of the finest examples of Norman architecture in Europe.

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with the neighboring castle, it impresses with its immense pillars, vaults and unique atmosphere.

Les amateurs de cinéma reconnaîtront également certains décors utilisés dans plusieurs films Harry Potter. Une étape à retenir pour un family trip to England. Pour d’autres forteresses, voyez aussi les plus beaux châteaux d’Angleterre.

Winchester Cathedral

For several centuries, Winchester was one of the most important cities in England.

Its cathedral is now the longest in the country and notably houses the tomb of the famous novelist Jane Austen.

Its elegant architecture, chapels and superb painted ceiling make it an unmissable visit.

Lincoln Cathedral

In the Middle Ages, Lincoln Cathedral was considered the tallest building in the world.

Perched on a hill overlooking the town, it offers an exceptional panorama of Lincolnshire.

Its English Gothic architecture is particularly remarkable and attracts many visitors each year.

Ely Cathedral

Nicknamed "the ship of the Fens", Ely Cathedral seems to emerge amidst the vast plains of Cambridgeshire.

Its spectacular octagonal wooden tower is unique in the UK and its bright interior offers a particularly soothing atmosphere.

Wells Cathedral

Located in Somerset, Wells Cathedral is often considered one of the most harmonious in England.

She is famous for:

• Its facade is adorned with hundreds of statues.
• Its impressive scissor arches.
• Its medieval astronomical clock.

Elle constitue une excellente étape lors d’un séjour dans le sud-ouest de l’Angleterre, notamment autour de Bath. Pour prolonger, voyez What to do in Bath in two days.

Gloucester Cathedral

Gloucester Cathedral blends Norman and Gothic architecture.

Its magnificent cloisters are among the most famous in the country and have served as the backdrop for several scenes in the Harry Potter films.

Its gigantic glass roof is also one of the most impressive in England.

St Paul's Cathedral in London

It is impossible to talk about the most beautiful English cathedrals without mentioning St Paul's Cathedral.

Rebuilt after the Great Fire of London by Christopher Wren, it still dominates the capital thanks to its immense dome.

Les visiteurs peuvent monter jusqu’à la Whispering Gallery puis au sommet afin d’admirer un panorama exceptionnel sur Londres. Pour explorer la capitale autrement, suivez notre guide des London's off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods.

Which cathedral should you choose for your trip?

If you were to visit only a few, here is our selection:

• Regarding Gothic architecture: York Minster and Salisbury Cathedral.
• For the record: Canterbury Cathedral and Durham Cathedral.
• For the panoramas: Lincoln Cathedral and St Paul's Cathedral.
• For Harry Potter fans: Durham Cathedral and Gloucester Cathedral.

Each region of England has its own architectural gems. Including one or more cathedrals in your itinerary is a great way to discover the country's history, culture, and heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Quelle est la plus belle cathédrale d’Angleterre ?

York Minster est probablement la plus célèbre, avec sa façade gothique et ses vitraux médiévaux. Pour l’architecture gothique, Salisbury Cathedral est l’autre grande référence.

Quelle cathédrale anglaise possède la plus haute flèche ?

Salisbury Cathedral, avec une flèche de 123 mètres, la plus haute d’Angleterre.

Où voir la Magna Carta en Angleterre ?

Salisbury Cathedral conserve l’une des quatre copies originales de la Magna Carta.

Quelles cathédrales ont servi de décor aux films Harry Potter ?

Durham Cathedral et Gloucester Cathedral. Les cloîtres de Gloucester, en particulier, apparaissent dans plusieurs scènes.

Où se trouve la tombe de Jane Austen ?

Jane Austen repose dans la cathédrale de Winchester, qui est aussi la plus longue d’Angleterre.

Peut-on monter au sommet de St Paul’s Cathedral ?

Oui. Les visiteurs peuvent monter jusqu’à la Whispering Gallery, puis au sommet du dôme, d’où la vue sur Londres est exceptionnelle.

Plan your trip to England with Brightside Travel

Chez Brightside Travel, nous créons des voyages sur mesure en Angleterre adaptés à vos envies. Que vous souhaitiez découvrir les plus belles cathédrales anglaises, explorer les villages de caractère ou parcourir les régions historiques du pays, nous concevons un itinéraire entièrement personnalisé pour vous faire vivre une expérience authentique. Pour commencer, consultez notre guide pour plan your trip to England.

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