Shopping in Blackburn

Blackburn Cathedral

The Parish Church of St. Mary’s was mentioned in the Domesday book of the 11th Century and stood on the site of what is now Blackburn’s magnificent Cathedral with its many fine architectural features. The distinctive Lantern Towner, rebuilt in 1998, stands watch over the town, whilst ancient stained glass – dating from medieval times- sparkles alongside splendid contemporary glasswork. The Cathedral also displays one of the finest collections of modern religious art in the U.K.

The most recent addition being the spectacular ‘Healing of the Nations’ which is a colossal seven ton sculpture of steel and light on the East end gable wall. The Cathedral precinct is a tranquil green space in the busy town and a popular spot for a peaceful lunch break on sunny days. Visitors are welcome and guided tours of the Cathedral can be arranged in advance. The Cathedral undertakes a regular programme of choral and classical concerts – don’t miss the spectacular annual carol service and fireworks extravaganza in the grounds at Christmas. In addition, the Café in the Crypt serves light refreshments.

Darwen Street & Darwen St Bridge

Darwen Street has always been one of the town’s key trading sites and in the 1820’s was described as one of the location of the town’s principal traders. In Victorian times the pavements were crammed with stalls and penny bazaars run by, amongst others, ‘Marks & Spencer’s’ and was bustling with shoppers. Today Darwen Street is a treasured part of Blackburn’s Heritage Corridor and is still home to a variety of independent specialist shops and businesses. The street has some the best examples of Georgian architecture/terraces in town. Since the closure of Church Street to through traffic, Darwen Street is once again easily accessible to shoppers from the shopping centre and Northgate and provides a popular pedestrian route through to the Cathedral, Fleming Square and Matalan past Darwen Street Bridge.

The Cathedral Quarter

The “quarter” expands from the Boulevard to Church Street, Darwen Street and Mincing Lane and is dominated by Blackburn Cathedral Church of St Mary’s. This beautiful and historic area has one of the most established identities in the town centre. Characterised by a range of interesting spaces, public art, quality heritage buildings and unique retail businesses the Cathedral Quarter offers an ever-expanding variety of businesses, attractions and shopping for visitors.