Cathedral of the Isles, Millport, United Kingdom

The Cathedral of the Isles is the cathedral of the Scottish Episcopal Church in the town of Millport on the Isle of Cumbrae. George Boyle, 6th Earl of Glasgow, was benefactor of the cathedral and the associated theological college and commissioned William Butterfield to design the building. Butterfield was one of the great architects of the Gothic revival and also designed St Ninian's Cathedral in Perth. Construction finished in 1849 and the cathedral opened in 1851 as a collegiate church. The Chapel of the College of the Holy Spirit was raised to the status of a cathedral in 1876.

Formal gardens and woodland surround the cathedral, the tallest building on Great Cumbrae and the smallest cathedral in the British Isles. The tower dominates the buildings: at 123 ft, the tower and spire are three times the length of the 40 ft nave.

In the entrance porch is an interesting collection of Celtic crosses, all of which were excavated on the island in Victorian times.

References:

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User Reviews

Marbey “O***os” Laflo (7 months ago)
We were lucky enough to get in the Cathedral to enjoy a mesmerised performance piano and violin music ? ? was magical.. thank you.

Jake Fisher (9 months ago)
Wonderful building, kind and considerate clergy and arrived during choir practice! Very spiritual and welcoming

John Sellars (9 months ago)
The smallest Cathedral I'm the UK (and possibly Europe), this is a magnificent building in the Gothic style.

carrie jo Robinson (2 years ago)
So comfortable and full of character in a wonderful setting. Lovely friendly staff, great service and food. We were keen to return and hugely disappointed to learn the diocese are closing the guest house. Why?!

Joe Boatman (2 years ago)
Beautiful place especially with tea outside on the picnic tables. Wonderful cathedral with Sunday concerts at 3pm. Rooms can be booked on their website.

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