Free exhibition of archival objects, photographs and ceremonial items from the eleven bishops of St Albans, marking the installation of Bishop Andrew Rumsey.
Bishops: Builders of the Diocese is on at St Albans Cathedral until 6 December, a history exhibition curated by the Cathedral's own Archives volunteers. It marks the installation of the eleventh Bishop of St Albans, the Right Reverend Doctor Andrew Rumsey, and works its way through the lives and legacies of all eleven bishops of the diocese. Each bishop is represented by an object from the Archives, shown alongside insignia and ceremonial items, so you get a sense of the people behind the titles rather than just a list of names.
There's a nice human touch to it, too: the display notes that the current bishop is also a folk musician. It's that kind of detail that makes it feel like a look at actual lives, not just a formal record. The exhibition is the first in a series coming in 2027 to mark the Cathedral's 150th anniversary, so it's a good way to get a head start on that.
Every week we pick 🏆 the 5 best 🏆 things to do in St Albans and send them to your inbox. Just one weekly email, no spam.
By submitting your email, you accept our Privacy Policy
As for the venue, it's hard to beat the setting. St Albans Cathedral is the shrine to Britain's first saint and the oldest site of continuous Christian worship in the country, and it still works as a home for worship, music, learning, heritage and events. The exhibition is free of charge, though donations are welcome, and it's open during public visiting hours from 7 September to 6 December. You'll find it at Sumpter Yard, St Albans, AL1 1BY.
