Guildford Cathedral

In 1930, in an astonishing act of faith and vision despite a serious economic depression and the looming threat of war, Guildford began planning and fundraising for a new cathedral. Out of 200 designs submitted in a nationwide competition it was Edward Maufe’s Gothic revival design that won. Today visitors marvel at the lofty space, which is almost a temple to the light that forms such an integral part of Christian symbolism. Eric Gill was among the prominent twentieth-century British sculptors who created the few ornamental details that complement the cathedral’s spare, modern design and provide a striking focus for reflection. The cathedral’s story is interwoven with that of its community, which has rallied to save it during difficult periods in its history and makes it the lively centre of worship that it is today.