Derby Cathedral

Derby Cathedral is an icon for the city. Its 16th century perpendicular tower, standing over 212 feet high, dominates the city skyline and is a welcome sight for those returning home at the end of a long day!

The nave and chancel were built to James Gibbs classic simple style in the 1720’s and the Cathedral was extended in the 1970’s, realising a programme of works that had been planned since the Cathedral was hallowed in 1927.

Inside the building there is much to look at but of special note is the Bakewell Screen, a wrought iron gate across the width of the church, the flamboyant monument to Bess of Hardwick and a simple, quiet space for prayer called St. Katharine’s Chapel.

In 2022, the Bakewell Screen was voted the 3rd most popular Cathedral Treasure in England and Wales.

Janet Gough, author of “Deans’ Choice: Cathedral Treasures of England and Wales” said of the Bakewell Screen.

“The 1720s Bakewell Screen is a masterpiece in painted and gilded wrought iron, traversing the full width of Derby Cathedral and dividing the chancel from the nave like any traditional rood screen.

“The screen’s transparency symbolises the light of reason beloved of the Age of Enlightenment and, made at the same time as Bakewell’s gates to Derby’s adjacent silk mill – today the Museum of Making – ushers in the Industrial Revolution,’

The Cathedral is open every day of the year and is free to enter. You are most welcome to visit this beautiful building.

You can watch the Derby peregrine falcons nest, hatch and fledge live on their webcam here.