Peace Doves at Chester Cathedral – Wish you were here

27th May 2025

A second world war plane suspended in the nave, Mars, Peace Doves, an Escape Room, an exhibition celebrating water, and the retelling of the Bible in 25million stitches – all our cathedrals have exciting programmes of events for everyone this summer and all are underpinned by the daily rhythm of prayer and worship.

#WishYouWereHere – Summer in our Cathedrals – what will you discover?

Peace Doves at Chester Cathedral

People are invited to reflect on the values of peace, unity and harmony with Peace Doves, an installation by Peter Walker currently suspended in the nave of Chester Cathedral.

Peace Doves is a large-scale artwork of 15,000 paper doves suspended on ribbons and each dove carries a unique message, written by visitors, schoolchildren, and community groups.

A spokesperson for Chester Cathedral said,

‘Together the doves form a breathtaking installation that offers a serene space for contemplation and hope. 

‘Bathed in gentle, evocative lighting and at times accompanied by an original score by David Harper, the exhibit transforms the venue into a sanctuary of quiet reflection.’

Peace Doves is open for viewing at Chester Cathedral until Tuesday 17 June and is open during Cathedral’s normal operating hours.

Visitors are encouraged to explore the scale and beauty of the artwork, to take a moment of stillness, and to appreciate the personal messages shared by people from all walks of life. Each message on the doves represents a piece of a greater call for peace, making this installation a truly unique experience.

Please note there will be no access to Peace Doves during Sunday morning Eucharist from 10.30am-11.45.am and the Thursday Organ Recital from 1.10pm-2pm