Derby Cathedral

Derby Cathedral, officially known as the Cathedral Church of All Saints, is a magnificent structure nestled in the heart of Derby, England. With its rich history dating back to the mid-10th century and its impressive architectural features, this cathedral is a must-visit for anyone exploring the city. The cathedral’s evolution from a humble parish church to a grandiose cathedral is a testament to the enduring spirit and dedication of its parishioners and the community.

The Historical Journey

The origins of Derby Cathedral can be traced back to around 943 AD when it was founded by the Anglo-Saxon King Edmund I as a royal collegiate church dedicated to All Saints. The original structure, however, did not survive the test of time. Following the Norman Conquest of 1066, the church was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as belonging to the king and served by a college of seven priests. The original Saxon building was eventually deemed structurally unstable and was replaced by a new construction in the 14th century.

The 16th century witnessed the construction of the stunning 212-foot tower in the Perpendicular Gothic style, which still stands proudly today. The tower is adorned with twelve large sculpted grotesque animal figures and the sculpted stone head of a Green Man on each side of the main West Door, adding a mystical charm to the structure.

Architectural Marvels

The main body of the church that visitors see today is a Georgian rebuilding by the renowned architect James Gibbs, completed in 1725. Gibbs’ design is a fine example of Neo-Classical architecture, characterized by its simplicity and elegance. Despite its plainness, the interior of the church is enhanced by the exquisite wrought iron chancel screen crafted by local iron-smith Robert Bakewell. This screen, which extends across the entire width of the church, took five years to complete and adds a touch of opulence to the otherwise austere interior.

In 1927, the church was elevated to cathedral status, creating a seat for the newly established Bishop of Derby. To accommodate its new status, a retroquire designed by Sebastian Comper was added between 1967 and 1972. This extension seamlessly blends with the existing structure, preserving the cathedral’s historical integrity while providing additional space for worship and reflection.

Monuments and Treasures

Derby Cathedral is home to several notable monuments and furnishings that reflect its rich heritage. Among the treasures are the 18th-century wrought iron rood screen by Robert Bakewell, a monument with an effigy of Bess of Hardwick, and monumental brasses of the Cavendish family, including Henry Cavendish and Georgiana Cavendish, Duchess of Devonshire. The entrance gates, also crafted by Bakewell, were moved to the cathedral from St Mary’s Gate in 1957 and have been refurbished to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee in 2012.

The cathedral also features modern additions such as stained-glass windows designed by Ceri Richards and a bronze crucifix by Ronald Pope, which add contemporary artistic flair to the historical setting.

The Clock and Carillon

One of the cathedral’s unique features is its clock and carillon. The current clock, installed in 1927 by John Smith & Son, replaced an older clock from 1738. The clock has two stone dials facing West and South, each 8 feet in diameter, and they were restored and gilded in 1964 and again in the early 21st century.

The carillon, a mechanical instrument that plays tunes on the cathedral’s bells, was installed in 1931. It plays a tune three times a day, with the melodies changing daily. This tradition, dating back to the 17th century, adds a melodic charm to the cathedral’s daily life.

The Tower and Bells

Derby Cathedral boasts the oldest ring of ten bells in the world, with most of them dating back to 1678. The largest bell, weighing 965 kg, is over 500 years old and is believed to have come from Dale Abbey during the Dissolution of the Monasteries. The bells are housed in a metal frame installed in 1927, replacing the original wooden frame.

The tower has also witnessed some intriguing events, such as a Frenchman named Gillinoe ‘flying’ down on a rope from the top of the steeple in 1732, and a wartime barrage balloon demolishing the top half of a pinnacle during a storm in 1940. In recent years, the tower has become home to a pair of peregrine falcons, adding a touch of wildlife to the cathedral’s urban setting.

Visiting Derby Cathedral

A visit to Derby Cathedral is not just a journey through architectural marvels and historical milestones but also an opportunity to experience a vibrant community space. The cathedral hosts regular services, concerts, and events, making it a lively center of worship and culture. The Derby Cathedral Centre, located opposite the west doors, offers a café, bookshop, and exhibition space featuring works by local artists, providing a perfect spot to relax and reflect after exploring the cathedral.

In conclusion, Derby Cathedral stands as a beacon of history, faith, and community spirit. Its walls echo the stories of centuries past, while its vibrant present continues to inspire and engage visitors from all walks of life. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply seeking a moment of tranquility, Derby Cathedral promises an enriching and memorable experience.