Since 1180, a place of worship has stood on this site, in the heart of Portsmouth’s original settlement. Later dedicated to Thomas Becket, it became a parish church around 1320 and a Cathedral in 1927. Throughout history, it has been a constant and integral part of the development of Portsmouth as a modern and vibrant city.
Portsmouth Cathedral is the Mother Church of the Diocese of Portsmouth, which covers south-east Hampshire, Portsea Island and the Isle of Wight. It is the focal point for many diocese-wide services and events, from confirmation services to the ordinations of new ministers. A regular pattern of worship is available in a variety of different styles, from daily Holy Communion and Choral Evensong, to our informal café-style #PompeySundays and Taizé services.
We warmly welcome all through our doors as a beacon and safe haven anchored in Jesus Christ.
Over 800 years of history…
Since 1180, we have watched, listened and helped the people of Portsmouth navigate the passage of time. We have witnessed wars and peace, famous marriages, been bombed and rebuilt. The Cathedral reflects the constantly changing, growing and unfolding of the Christian faith, displaying a harmony of three distinct architectural styles which provide a source of light, warmth and space.
The Portsmouth Cathedral Development Trust
PCDT undertakes fundraising appeals for major developments such as the completion of the West End of the Cathedral in the early 1990s and the appeal to refurbish Cathedral House and the North Cloister, which raised £1.6 million in 2006/7. Recent grants to the Cathedral include £18,500 towards the new organ en chamade.
The Trust is chaired by Mr Nigel Atkinson, Esq. HM Lord-Lieutenant of Hampshire.
Charity number: 295024