St Peter's Church, Roath

History

The Rosminian order, who ran Cardiff's Catholic mission from 1854, commissioned the church. Its foundation stone was laid in August 1860 and it opened in September 1861. The south-west tower followed in 1883–84, built to Hansom's design but without the spire he intended. The Rosminians still serve the parish today. The parish describes itself as welcoming worshippers from many cultures and backgrounds, as well as people curious about the Catholic Church.

What to look at

The building is in a French 13th-century Gothic style, with a six-bay nave arcade on octagonal piers. The stained glass is the thing to linger over: the 1883 chancel windows are by Mayer of Munich, with further glass by Hardman and Sanders. A 1960s reordering removed the high altar and rood screen, and redecoration in the early 2000s brought back some of the colour.

Visiting

This is a working church, so be considerate during Mass; weekday morning Mass is open to all, and the parish newsletter gives current times. Roath is a short walk from the city centre and Cathays Park, and the cafés of City Road and Albany Road are close by; A Pin of Salt is a few minutes' walk for lunch. Eucharistic Adoration follows the weekday morning Mass, a quieter time to see the interior.

Highlights

• Opened in 1861, Grade II* listed
• Designed by Charles Hansom
• Chancel windows by Mayer of Munich
• Run by the Rosminian order

Good to know

• A working parish church; check the newsletter for current Mass times.
• Sunday and Wednesday Masses are streamed online.

Frequently asked questions