Bradford Cathedral Receives Award for Leisure Events Amidst Visitor Engagement Strategy

Bradford’s Anglican cathedral is hosting non-religious events, a strategy its dean has indicated is aimed at increasing visitor numbers. Among the attractions available at the cathedral, which is recognized as the city’s oldest building still in use, are flamenco dancing and pop songs by candlelight. Last weekend, the cathedral was named Leisure Venue of the Year at Bradford’s Retail, Leisure and Hospitality awards for 2024, triumphing over two live music venues. The Very Reverend Andy Bowerman, Dean of Bradford, stated that the objective of the plan is to enable as many people as possible to “connect” with the cathedral, to learn about the history of the site, and to utilize it for religious purposes. Dean Bowerman commented, “It’s partly responding to a new vision where we recognise that even though we’re the oldest building in Bradford still in use, loads of people don’t know we’re here.” He further articulated, “We want to become more visible, we want to become more accessible. We want people to come into the space and surprise themselves.” The cathedral received its award during a ceremony conducted at the Broadway Shopping Centre. Dean Bowerman expressed their belief that they cater to everyone. He elaborated, “People who want to have a moment of quiet, but also people who just want to come and have a good time. So, whether it’s Abba by Candlelight or it’s a Remembrance Service, a solemn mass, all things are possible here.” Missionaries based in Dewsbury first evangelized the area during the 7th Century. The initial church building was constructed around 1066, and the foundations for the current cathedral were completed in 1458, with subsequent extensions added over the centuries. Dean Bowerman added, “We so often hear people say ‘oh, I never knew you were here’, but what a fantastic space to be able to gather people together in all sorts of ways.” Jonny Noble, chief executive of Bradford BID, an organization representing more than 400 businesses in the city, described the cathedral as “a bit of a hidden gem.” He further stated, “It was a surprise, but a welcome surprise, when it was announced as the winner.” Noble mentioned that the cathedral’s team had made significant efforts to reconnect with the city centre and expressed hope that it would be recognized as a versatile venue, not solely as a place of worship.