What’s on
all the services and events happening at the Cathedral
Annual Rorke's Drift Service
The annual Rorke’s Drift Service will be held at Brecon Cathedral at 11am on Sunday January 25th 2026.
This service commemorates the date the first major defeat of the Zulu War took place, when 20,000 warriors of King Cetshwayo’s mighty army, swept down upon the unsuspecting soldiers of the 1st Bn the 24th Regiment of Foot, as they camped beneath the hill of Isandlwana, which bore an uncanny resemblance to the Sphinx on the collar badges of their uniform. At first, the heavy volley fire from the disciplined ranks of the Regiment held the opposing force in check, but within a few short hours the position had been over-run by the Zulus, not because of a shortage of screwdrivers to open the ammunition boxes, but because it was just not possible to replenish the Companies fast enough in the face of such overwhelming odds. Some of the auxiliary troops broke and ran in sheer terror, but the rifle companies of the 24th Regiment of Foot stood their ground and fought to the bitter end. A soldier may fight for Queen and Country, but a man can die no better than when he lays down his life for his friends - epitomised by the fact that, of the 600 men of the 24th Regiment of Foot on the battlefield that day, only six were to survive.
When it became apparent that the battle was all but lost, Lieutenants Melvill and Coghill attempted to save the Queens Colour from falling into enemy hands. There is no glory in the act of war itself, but the Colours embody the honour, pride, tradition and ethos of a Regiment, so it is no surprise that they were willing to risk their lives in such an attempt. Pursued by the Zulus along what is now known as the Fugitives Trail, Lieutenant Coghill was first to reach the safety of the home bank of the Buffalo River, but on seeing Lieutenant Melvill in difficulty with the Colour, he had no hesitation in plunging back into the river to help his friend. Some years later, they were both among the first ever to be awarded the Victoria Cross posthumously, such was the highest regard given to their selfless act of courage.
Brecon Cathedral has long been the custodian of the noble heritage of the 24th Regiment of Foot, witnessed by the Regimental Colours and the Wreath of Immortelles laid up in the Havard Chapel, the main east window and the many brass and marble memorial tablets on the Cathedral’s walls. When the Regiment returned to England, Her Majesty Queen Victoria placed a floral wreath of immortelles on the Colour and decreed that this should be carried forevermore by the Regiment in honour of all those who had lost their lives during the Zulu wars - a distinction that is unique throughout the British army. The Zulu War Colours were laid up in Brecon Cathedral on Easter Day in 1934. The Regiment has seen much change over the last 147 years and is now known as The Royal Welsh, yet the golden thread of the Regimental history accompanies those who forge ahead on their new journey, and the legacy of the Battle of Isandlwana and the Immortal Defence of Rorke’s Drift remains in good hands.
All are welcome
The Cathedral Cafe will be open before and after the service for refreshments
Epiphany Procession Service
This year’s Epiphany Procession will take place on Sunday, January 25th, at 5pm. It marks the end of Epiphany season. Please come along to support the choir and enjoy a feast of seasonal choral music.
Please note: there will be no 3.30 Evensong.
80s & 90s Immersive Silent Disco
An unforgettable silent disco experience inside the historic Brecon Cathedral.
EVENT DETAILS
Date: Saturday 31st January
Location: Cathedral Close, Brecon LD3 9DP
7:00PM - 11:00PM
Age Restriction: 18+
Accessibility: The venue is wheelchair accessible, but front-row access may vary depending on layout.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Playing the hits of your favourite artists:
Michael Jackson, Madonna, Prince, Whitney Houston, ABBA, George Michael/Wham!, U2, Bon Jovi, Bruce Springsteen, Tina Turner, Janet Jackson, Guns N’ Roses, Phil Collins/Genesis, Cyndi Lauper, Lionel Richie, Billy Joel, Elton John, Run-DMC, Queen, Bryan Adams, Aerosmith + more 80s & 90s hits!
Channel 1 – 80's all time classics
Channel 2 – 90's all time classics
Expect incredible sound, glowing headphones, and the unique thrill of dancing in a truly immersive setting.
QUESTIONS?
Contact the team at info@immersivesilentdiscos.com
Limited tickets available
The Nativity of our Lord
A service of Holy Communion suitable for all ages, with carols and readings. The congregation gives thanks for Jesus' life, his death and resurrection and his continuing presence.
midnight mass
The First Eucharist of Christmas – a moving service accompanied by carols. Midnight Mass is the first liturgy of Christmastide that is celebrated on the night of Christmas Eve. Come and join the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ.
Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols
The Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols is a beloved tradition celebrated in Brecon Cathedral each December. This service combines scripture readings that tell the story of the fall of humanity, the promise of the Messiah, and the birth of Jesus Christ, with the singing of carols and hymns by the Cathedral choir. It is a time for reflection, joy, and community gathering during the Christmas season. The festival invites worshippers and visitors alike to immerse themselves in the rich narrative of Advent and Christmas, in the beautiful surroundings of our historic Cathedral.
Crib Service
The annual Crib Service at Brecon Cathedral will take place on Christmas Eve, Wednesday 24th December, at 3.30 pm. This family-friendly service celebrates the nativity story through carols, readings, and the opportunity for children to be part of the nativity tableau. It is an ideal occasion for families to come together and reflect on the meaning of Christmas in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
RWAS Feature County Carol service
OH COME, ALL YE FAITHFUL!
Brecon is the RWAS Feature County for 2026. They welcome you all to join them for a very special Carol Service. The evening is the premier public performance of Côr Brycheiniog - the Brecknock RWAS Feature County Choir alongside an ensemble from the Band of the Royal Welsh.
Have a sneak peek of the choir rehearsing: https://www.instagram.com/brecknock_2026/reel/DSH_mWXjE4C/
Mulled wine and Mince Pies will follow the service.
This is a free event.
Organisations have been invited to donate Food Hampers for Breconshire Food Banks, and there will be a retiring collection for the Cathedral.
Do join us!
The Three Phantoms
Calon Hearts UK Presents:
The Three Phantoms at Brecon Cathedral on December 13th 2025
'Close your eyes and let the music set you free'
Box Office: 02922 402670 / 020 8191 2661
All proceeds go towards supporting Calon Hearts UK – funding heart screenings and placing lifesaving defibrillators in communities across Wales.
Brecon Cathedral Christmas Fayre
Our annual Christmas Fayre takes place this year on Saturday, December 6th, from 12pm to 6pm. There will be the finest local stalls featuring handcrafted gifts, seasonal decorations, and delicious treats, all set within the stunning medieval architecture of the cathedral. Visitors can explore the fair while also listening (and joining in!) to musical performances, children's activities, and opportunities to enjoy warm refreshments, making it an ideal event for everyone. This annual event not only supports local businesses but also shares a sense of community spirit during the Christmas period in our town’s beautiful Cathedral. Everyone Welcome!
Candlelit Advent Procession
The Advent Procession at Brecon Cathedral is a reflective and moving service that marks the beginning of the church’s liturgical year. Through scripture readings, prayers, and hymns, the congregation journeys together in anticipation of the coming of Christ. Candles are gradually lit, symbolising the light of hope growing in the darkness, inviting all to prepare their hearts for the Christmas season. It moves from the opening words of the Advent offices (the first responsory from Matins on Advent Sunday) to the final ones, which were recited just before Christmas Day itself (the final responsory from Vespers on Christmas Eve). The sense of travelling through time is reflected physically by the Procession moving around the Cathedral, from beneath the great west window to the Sanctuary and High Altar, symbolising the coming of light into the world through the birth of Jesus. This solemn yet hopeful ceremony offers a moment of peace and contemplation amidst the busy lead-up to Christmas.
Music by Palestrina, Davison, Ledger and Wynn Jones.
All Welcome
Lunchtime Concert Songs & Seasons
Join us for the rescheduled Songs & Seasons concert. A celebration of Brycheiniog’s history told through song and narration. This is a free event. All welcome.
The Christmas Orchestra
The Christmas Orchestra is back! Get ready to discover the magic of the festive season with a unique concert experience.
On 27th November the tour makes a special stop at Brecon Cathedral, bringing the festive spirit right to your doorstep.
🎻 🎶 The Show 🎶 🎻
The concert is performed live by a 16 piece chamber orchestra supported with full sound production and lighting show. Experience uplifting nostalgia with compositions from your favourite Christmas films, as well as popular sing-along classics to ignite your festive spirit, including:
Home Alone
Love Actually
Muppet Christmas Carol
The Nutcracker
Polar Express
Harry Potter
Bridget Jones Diary
Elf
The Christmas Orchestra promises a magical and energising festive journey, capturing the essence of Christmas, perfect for igniting your holiday spirit.
Early Concert: 18:30
Doors open: 18:00
Show starts: 18:30
Show ends: 19:45
Late Concert: 20:45
Doors open: 20:15
Show starts: 20:45
Show ends: 22:00
Crickhowell Choral Society with Brecknock Sinfonia
Schubert: Mass in A flat
Mendelssohn: Singet dem Herrn (Sing unto the Lord)
Haydn: Insanae et vanae curae
Tickets cost £15 (£15.50 online) and are now on sale. Full details and tickets are available at Crickhowell Choral Society
Free for children and students
Remembrance Sunday service
Remembrance Sunday at Brecon Cathedral
Each year, Brecon Cathedral solemnly observes Remembrance Sunday, a day dedicated to honouring the men and women who have served and sacrificed in the Armed Forces. The service provides a moment of reflection for the community to come together, remember the fallen, and express gratitude for their courage and commitment.
All are welcome to attend this important occasion, as we pay tribute to those who have given so much for our freedom.
Remembrance Sunday at the Cathedral serves as a poignant reminder of the cost of conflict and the enduring hope for peace.
Vigil for the Souls of the Departed
Brecon Cathedral will hold a Vigil for the Souls of the Departed on Monday 3rd November, at 6:00 pm. This solemn service offers a time for reflection, remembrance, and prayer for those who have passed.
The vigil provides an opportunity for families and individuals to come together in a quiet and contemplative atmosphere, lighting candles and sharing prayers to honour the memory of departed loved ones. Through scripture readings, hymns, and moments of silence, we acknowledge the profound loss experienced by many and offer comfort in faith.
All are welcome to attend this service of hope and remembrance, as we hold the souls of the departed in our prayers and entrust them to God’s eternal care. Those wishing to have the names of their loved ones read aloud during the vigil are invited to submit them to the Cathedral Office in advance.
All are welcome
SAID REQUIEM MASS FOR ALL SOULS
The Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed
A special eucharist service of remembrance.
This solemn service offers a moment of reflection and prayer for all the faithful departed. Clergy and congregation gather to honour the memory of loved ones, seeking rest and peace for their souls through traditional prayers and hymns.
The service includes readings from scripture and the solemn intonation of the prayers for the dead, invoking God’s mercy. Attendees are invited to light candles in remembrance.
This annual Mass remains a significant occasion within the cathedral’s calendar, providing comfort and hope to those mourning and reaffirming faith in the promise of eternal life.
All are welcome
Brecon Baroque Festival 25 Evensong
Join us in this ancient Cathedral for a special choral evensong with Brecon Cathedral Choir plus a consort of viols from the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama, directed by Brecon Cathedral’s Assistant Director of Music, Matthew McVey.
Introit - O.Gibbons The Secret Sins (in honour of his 400th anniversary)
Responses - Tallis
Canticles - W.Byrd, Second Service
Anthem - H.Purcell, Rejoice in the Lord alway
Brecon Baroque Festival 2025 - Organ Recital by callum anderson
A lunchtime organ recital by Callum Anderson to include music by Buxtehude, Cima, Gibbons and Sweelinck plus some of Callum’s own compositions.
Callum Anderson is a harpsichordist and organist based in London. In 2020 he completed a Master's Degree in Historically Informed Performance at the Royal Academy of Music with a distinction, studying the harpsichord with Carole Cerasi and Brecon Baroque Festival star, James Johnstone.Callum is the Assistant Director of Music at St. Mary’s Church, Putney. He was previously the organist of St. Peter’s Church, Acton (2020-2022), and has held organ scholarships at St. Mary Redcliffe (Bristol), St. Mary's Church (Battersea) and St. Marylebone Parish Church.
Duration: 1 hour with no interval.
Tickets: £15
Brecon Baroque Festival - A Pageant of Psalms
Rachel Podger, Brecon Baroque, The English Cornett & Sackbut Ensemble and Brecon Baroque Festival Choir, directed by Julian Podger.
Pet Service 2025
Calling all creatures great and small!
Brecon Cathedral invites pets of all sizes, along with their families to give thanks to God for cherished friendships.
A wonderful opportunity to thank God for the gift of animals, and for us to ask His blessing on all that He has made.
VE Day Service to mark the 80th Anniversary of Victory in Europe
On the 8th May 1945 the Second World War came to an end in Europe. Since September 1939 Britain and her allies fought the evil tyrany of the Nazi regime. Many millions lost their lives in battle, in their homes and in concentration camps. This service pays tribute to the memory of those who died and lost loved ones. It is also a celebration of the end of the war in Europe. Of course this was not the end of the war as it went on in the Far East until August 1945 with many more losing their lives.
CANCELLED: Schubert Mass in A Flat - Crickhowell Choral Society and Brecknock Sinfonia
Schubert Mass in A flat
events
Hover over the calendar for a quick view of events by month, or scroll down to view a list of forthcoming events.