St Davids Cathedral image

St Davids Cathedral

Tourist attraction Association or organization Place of worship Cathedral

One of the Best Places To Visits in St Davids


Address

The Pebbles, St Davids, Haverfordwest SA62 6RD, United Kingdom

Website

www.stdavidscathedral.org.uk

Contact

+44 1437 720202

Rating on Google Maps

4.80 (4.1K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Friday: 10 am to 4:30 pm
  • Saturday: 10 am to 4:30 pm
  • Sunday: 1 to 3 pm
  • Monday: 10 am to 4:30 pm
  • Tuesday: 10 am to 4:30 pm
  • Wednesday: 10 am to 4:30 pm
  • Thursday: 10 am to 4:30 pm

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: cathedral (30) history (16) Cathedral (14) visit (11) beautiful (11) David' (10) lovely (7) building (7) Welsh (7) interesting (6)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Chris M. 1 year ago on Google
    No trip to Wales would be complete without a visit to St David’s Cathedral. It has been a place of Christian worship for one and a half millennium. The spirituality built up over the generations remains alive and is so much part of the city. Everything is beautifully maintained with a real pride among those living and being part of the community. The most lovely thing about it all is the welcome and sharing of what they hold so dear being the Cathedral. The Bishops Place gives a real picture as to the past and in particular the life lead by the Bishop himself into leading his community nearly half a millennium ago. To understand the past gives insight as to why we are today with little actually changing.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ethan O. 1 year ago on Google
    One of the more interesting cathedral complexes I’ve seen. The bishops palace is well worth the money spent and the cathedral has an amazing array of architecture. It’s great to see various periods all in one small but amazingly spectacular little cathedral.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Claudia R. 1 year ago on Google
    If you are doing a countryside tour of wales, worth a stop on your way through. the Cathedral itself has been beautifully kept and making the area an official town. The town itself, a short walk from the parking for the cathedral has several lovely little tea and cake stops to enjoy a break along your road trip. I am not sure would make a specific trip out that way for the area but am very grateful to got to experience a beautiful space and grounds filled with a rich and dark history of the area.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 James E. 1 year ago on Google
    Beautiful building set in the middle of St David's. If you haven't been to the smallest city in the UK you are missing out. Lovely people and great places to eat and drink. The cathedral was stunning and we were astonished how this is built back all these years ago. Worth a look round if you are here, you will not be disappointed.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Alan H. 6 months ago on Google
    This is an interesting historic cathedral, it is free to enter, but donations are encouraged, there is plenty to see with interesting nooks and crannies. Staff are very nice. The refectory was closed when we visited. Toilets are modern, fresh and clean. There is plenty of pay and display parking within walking distance of the cathedral.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Lize R. 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful grounds, free entrance (with donation). Stunning cathedral, poems and insights around the interior were thoughtful and lovely to read. Wish we got to see more of the city.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 James B. 1 year ago on Google
    Much more interesting than expected! Lovely site, with the cathedral sitting low down from the town. Inside lots of added interest with art and good interpretation. Modern Refectory cafe the ideal place for lunch or tea/coffee. Good shop too both inside and separate.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Simon H. 9 months ago on Google
    Historic cathedral, beautifully maintained, significant to Welsh history and yet free to the public. St David’s is of great historical significance and this history is evident in the helpful information available. Thoughtful and tasteful elements exist to help visitors, like having mirrored tables so less mobile people can easily view the artistry of the roof. Still functions as a chapel, but this doesn’t seem to prevent its full beneficial use by the public. Arrive early to use the nearby paid parking. Note it is down a steep hill, if you have older group members it’ll be challenging for them to get there unless you park in the paid parking spot to the west.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Lornna D. 6 months ago on Google
    Fantastic place to visit absolutely stunning, so atmospheric and steeped in history 😀 a must visit if in the area. The Bishops Palace also next to the Cathedral is amazing and you can feel the history around you. Wort a walk round the lovely little town also, such friendly people.

  • 5/5 David W. 5 months ago on Google
    The cathedral is an Anglican cathedral situated in St Davids, Britain's smallest city. The present cathedral was begun in 1181. It's a truly magnificent feat of High Middle Ages construction.

  • 5/5 Rachel S. 6 months ago on Google
    Stunning! Full of the most fascinating history and beautiful interiors. We were treated to an informal concert during our visit and the acoustics were astounding. I would love to visit again on a sunny day and spend some time in the environs if this lovely building.

  • 5/5 Michael L. 6 months ago on Google
    Wow, I was not expecting to find such a fabulous cathedral in such a remote and relatively small town. It's packed with interesting features with a fascinating history. The displays and information plaques are very well presented. Please leave a good donation as places like this need to be preserved.

  • 5/5 Flora S. 6 months ago on Google
    A phenomenally beautiful building. So much history to take in as well as the majesty of the building itself. We spent about an hour looking around the inside and also had a nice walk around the cathedral grounds too. Everyone we spoke to was very friendly and helpful. We visited in mid October (not half term) and it was busy without being crowded.

  • 5/5 James D. 4 months ago on Google
    Certainly! St. David's Cathedral, a true gem steeped in Welsh history, captivated us during our visit at the end of 2023. Its charming aura immediately embraced us as we stepped onto its historic grounds. The meticulous preservation of this ancient building left us in awe, a testament to the dedication of those safeguarding its rich heritage. The architectural marvels within the cathedral, adorned with intricate details, transported us through time, allowing a glimpse into the past. The reverence in every corner resonated with the essence of Welsh culture, creating an immersive experience that transcends generations. What truly struck us was the harmonious blend of spirituality and history, seamlessly intertwined within the cathedral's walls. As we explored, each step unfolded a narrative that echoed the resilience and cultural significance of St. David's Cathedral. The ethereal atmosphere and the sense of continuity between the past and present made our visit not just a sightseeing endeavor but a journey into the heart of Welsh identity. Moreover, the meticulous upkeep and preservation efforts were evident, ensuring that this historical landmark retained its grandeur. The seamless integration of modern conservation techniques with the ancient architecture showcased a commitment to preserving this cultural treasure for future generations. In conclusion, our visit to St. David's Cathedral was an enchanting experience that left an indelible mark on our memories. It's not merely a building; it's a living testament to the enduring spirit of Welsh history, expertly preserved and gracefully shared with all who have the privilege of stepping into its hallowed halls.

  • 4/5 Pete / Hel H. 10 months ago on Google
    All free, Stunning church, we even got to see the bell tower, loads of history including The monastic community was founded by Saint David, Abbot of Menevia, who died in 589. Between 645 and 1097, the community was attacked many times by raiders, including the Vikings; however it was of such note as both a religious and an intellectual centre that King Alfred summoned help from the monastic community at St Davids in rebuilding the intellectual life of the Kingdom of Wessex. Many of the bishops were murdered by raiders and marauders, including Bishop Moregenau in 999 and Bishop Abraham in 1080. The stone that marked his grave, known as the "Abraham Stone", is intricately carved with early Celtic symbols and is now on permanent display within the Cathedral Exhibition at Porth-y-Tŵr. Definitely worth a visit.

  • 5/5 Trish B. 10 months ago on Google
    Beautiful place and great walks to the birth place of St David's at St Nons. We joined the Sunday service, which was lovely.

  • 5/5 ANA CAROLINA PIUSSI M. 11 months ago on Google
    Definitely a MUST SEEN. What a beautiful site. The church story it is amazing. Built by St Davys at the VI century. It saw part being destroyed, the reconstructed. The church got excommunicated and so doesn’t receive any government aid being dependently in private donations. The interior it is beautiful. The ceiling called my attention for the perfect details made in wood. Inside you can find the graves from the main Welsh local families from a few centuries. But the most famous tomb it is Edmund Tudor that was Henry VII father’s. A beautiful marble tomb. The location overall it is a beautiful place. The gothic architecture in stone made it is marvellous.

  • 5/5 Jonathan M. 1 year ago on Google
    Born in Wales and lived there many years but the first time in St. David's. It's really beautiful and impressive, and the grounds including the ruins of the Bishops Palace are lovely. Highly recommended.

  • 5/5 Eileen P. 11 months ago on Google
    We have set ourselves a challenge to visit all the cathedrals in Britain and this one is definitely one of my favourites. Beautiful both inside and outside, with lots of boards to read giving explanations about different elements of the cathedral.

  • 5/5 Lorraine G. 11 months ago on Google
    A magnificent building full of history and awe-inspiring architecture. Choral matins on 21st May with their resident choir was fabulous. A concert on Friday 27th with local children and the BBC National Orchestra of Wales was fabulous and very reasonably priced.

  • 4/5 Samiru B. 11 months ago on Google
    A Timeless Gem - St. David's Cathedral, Haverfordwest St. David's Cathedral, nestled in picturesque Haverfordwest, is a beautiful reflection of Romanesque architecture filled with intricate carvings and stunning stained glass windows. Its serene environment exudes historical charm, further enhanced by the melodious choir performances. A short walk away lies the quaint town, offering delightful tea rooms and cake shops. While not a standalone destination for some, it's a memorable stop on a Welsh countryside tour, immersing you in tranquility and cultural richness. The meticulously maintained cathedral grounds add to the spiritual and historical experience, making St. David's Cathedral is a must-visit for those passing through.

  • 5/5 Komal S. 10 months ago on Google
    Gorgeous cathedral with intricate and unique designs! Look at the roof as it’s such an intricate wood carved designs. They have organ performances and services. Lots of ruins around as well. The gift shop have cute mementos and postcards :)

  • 5/5 Claire 1 year ago on Google
    Lovely cathedral. Nothing about it suggested high church and I felt very welcome there. There was plenty to see despite it being a small cathedral but there was wonderful adornment of the ceilings. A very relaxed viewing.

  • 5/5 Holly A. 1 year ago on Google
    Loved the bishop's palace!! Braved the treacherous stairs to top of the tower. It was worth it!! Great views from the palace to the cathedral. The cathedral was also good but still very much a working cathedral. Good for the history though, more than anything else

  • 5/5 Rich B. 1 year ago on Google
    A relatively small but stunningly beautiful cathedral. We visited on a very quiet morning, with almost no other visitors present and were able to spend over an hour in a peaceful setting, looking at some beautiful Norman and later architecture. Highlights are some extraordinary sculptures on tombs, a series of gorgeous illuminated manuscript copies of the psalms, the painted ceiling in the choir and tower and the amazing Bishop's Palace. Thank you to the local volunteer, who answered all of our questions patiently and knowledgably.

  • 5/5 E T. 1 year ago on Google
    Stunning - really worth spending some time looking at the details like the ceilings, the carvings underneath the choir seats, and the tapestries. Lots of information in the cathedral, you can spend hours here - I'd have liked longer!

  • 5/5 Erik O. 1 year ago on Google
    A cathedral with attributes not seen in most, the most significant is the slope from the back of the church to the front is 4m and still moving. Additionally, the pillars in the main portion are not straight, they tilt to the outside walls from the center. It's steeped on history and ground breaking was in the 1100s. You can learn a great deal from talking with folks working there.

  • 4/5 Kate W. 1 year ago on Google
    Visited on a very wet rainy day so not the best for light but Cathedral still glorious - so much history - very thought provoking. Cafe only half open and too busy so couldnt try as recommended which was a shame

  • 4/5 Keith S. 1 year ago on Google
    St David's is a very small city with limited parking, so come early in the day to see the main attraction being the Cathedral and what is left of Bishops palace. It is a very interesting Cathedral and worth a visit if you are in this part of Wales.

  • 5/5 Jon H. 1 year ago on Google
    Beautiful cathedral, wonderful wooden ceiling. Would have loved to have more time to look around but we were there for a concert so could not explore the cathedral itself.

  • 5/5 William J. 1 year ago on Google
    Of all the cathedrals in the UK, this place has a beauty both in its location and construction that others can not complete with. This is without doubt my favourite cathedral a place of quite contemplation and unbridled joy, a magnificence that is overwhelming. If you have not visited yet, do not wait any longer, life is too short to miss such a hidden gem.


Call +44 1437 720202 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible car park
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible entrance

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