You are most welcome to visit us during opening hours or for a service. General admission is free but we encourage donations to help with the upkeep of the building.
The cathedral building is open Mon-Fri: 10am–3:30pm, and Sunday services. The grounds, including St Patrick’s grave, are accessible year-round.
Some restrictions may apply during services and other events.
Down Cathedral is situated on the Hill of Down, a short walk from Downpatrick town centre and adjacent to The Saint Patrick Centre and the Down County Museum.
It is first and foremost a place for prayer and worship, not only for the local congregation and people of the Church of Ireland Diocese, but for all those in Ireland and beyond who cherish the faith of Patrick. It is in effect a house of prayer for all nations.
It is our prayer that all who enter the Cathedral would be lifted out of the strain of the preoccupation with material concern, the intrigue and expediency of political wrangling and the vain search for instant pleasure and be taken back to our roots, to faith in God through Christ, who alone can put life in perspective and give it true meaning and lasting satisfaction.
Whilst we are always delighted to welcome you during our opening times we ask for your patience and understanding if we sometimes have to restrict access.
As a working cathedral your visit may be limited while regular services are taking place or during irregular events such as weddings, funerals, or concerts.
Please respect any signs that may be in place and follow the guidance of the stewards on duty.
Thank you.
You are free to visit the cathedral building at your discretion during opening hours and there will always be a volunteer to welcome you and answer any questions you may have about Saint Patrick. Take a look at the Highlights page for some key things to look out for.
Prayer
Regardless of your faith we very much encourage you to take a moment to pray, joining with the long history of people that have prayed and worshipped here. Light a candle for a loved one in need and add their name to our prayer board – we will also pray for them during our intercessions.
Guided tours
Guided tours are available for groups of more than 10 people. A small charge is applicable and must be pre-booked – please use the form on the Tours page.
A reminder that Evening Prayer, formerly at 5pm, has been replaced with Lunchtime Prayer at 1pm, Monday–Friday.
Please do come along in-person or join us via the live streaming.
The service on Sunday 16th March will be at 12noon instead of the usual 11:30am.
Service time changed due to road closures as a result of Jimmy’s 10K.