The Archives at Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral offer a fascinating insight into the history of the Cathedral, the Archdiocese of Liverpool, and the wider Catholic community we serve. They’re home to an extensive collection of records, papers, and publications that together tell the story of Catholic life in Liverpool and beyond.
You’ll find the Archives on the mezzanine floor between the Cathedral and the Lutyens Crypt. Visits are by appointment only.
About the collection
Our Archives include both Cathedral and archdiocesan records dating from the mid-19th century to the present day. These collections help preserve the story of our faith, our people, and our place in the city.
Among the highlights are:
- Bishops’ and Archbishops’ papers from 1840–2013, including extensive material from Archbishops Downey, Beck and Worlock. (Please note: access to some papers, including the Worlock Papers, is restricted under a 30-year rule.)
- Records from St Joseph’s Seminary, Upholland (1883–1987)
- The Catholic Pictorial newspaper archive (1962–today)
- Parish box material from across the archdiocese
- A dedicated library containing Pastoral Letters, National Directories (1794–2025), press cuttings, and papers from Catholic organisations including the National Media Office and the Union of Catholic Mothers.
Early parish registers are held at the Liverpool Record Office or the Lancashire Record Office, while current registers remain with individual parishes.
Contributing to the Archives
We are always interested in expanding our collections and welcome donations of material from parishes, organisations and individuals that help preserve the story of Catholic life in Liverpool.
If you have something you’d like to share with us, please get in touch.
