Liverpool Cathedral stars as Royal Mail’s First-Class Stamp for Christmas 2024

Royal Mail has revealed its highly-anticipated Christmas Special Stamps for 2024, and this year Liverpool Cathedral has been selected to feature on the First Class stamp—a fitting tribute as the city marks the centenary of the cathedral’s consecration.

The stunning illustration of Liverpool Cathedral is part of a series celebrating iconic cathedrals across the UK, showcasing the beauty of these cherished buildings during the festive season.

As part of the celebration, an enlarged version of the original artwork used for the stamp will be displayed within Liverpool Cathedral throughout the Christmas period.

The 2024 Christmas stamp series also includes Edinburgh’s St Mary’s Episcopal Cathedral, Armagh’s St Patrick’s Cathedral (Church of Ireland), Bangor’s St Deiniol’s Cathedral, and Westminster Cathedral in London, creating a collection that brings together historic sites from all four corners of the UK.

The stamps were designed by acclaimed British artist Judy Joel, whose work has charmed art lovers worldwide for over five decades.

The Very Revd Dr Sue Jones, Dean of Liverpool, said:

“Having always said we are a first-class cathedral we are honoured to be this year’s Christmas First Class stamp. This comes at the end of our centenary year of celebrations and is a magnificent way to mark what has been a tremendous year.

“Royal Mail has chosen a great mix of cathedrals to showcase whilst reflecting the importance that these beautiful places of worship have in so many people’s Christmas traditions.”

David Gold, Director of External Affairs and Policy said:

“We are delighted to mark the centenary of Liverpool Cathedral on our First Class Christmas stamp. Cathedrals are a hugely significant part of our cultural heritage and play an important role in local communities.

“They also offer space for peaceful reflection and a bit of an escape from the challenges of daily life, which can be especially important at Christmas.”

The Very Reverend Dr Sue Jones outside Liverpool Cathedral with the Christmas stamp 2024.

The Full Set of Christmas 2024 Cathedrals

St Mary’s Episcopal Cathedral, Edinburgh: Designed by George Gilbert Scott and consecrated in 1879, St Mary’s Gothic structure, with its three towering spires, is Scotland’s largest cathedral and celebrates Christmas with elaborate choral performances.
St Patrick’s Cathedral, Armagh: Known as the Church of Ireland’s Cathedral of St Patrick, this cathedral has held worship on its historic site since the 5th century, providing a warm welcome to all during the festive season.
St Deiniol’s Cathedral, Bangor: Located on the site of St Deiniol’s Celtic monastery, Bangor Cathedral embraces Welsh heritage, conducting services in both Welsh and English every Sunday and Christmas Day.
Westminster Cathedral, London: England and Wales’ largest Roman Catholic church, Westminster Cathedral is renowned for its striking neo-Byzantine architecture and atmospheric candlelit Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve.

The Christmas 2024 stamps are now available for purchase online, by phone, and at 7,000 Post Offices across the UK. Collectors can buy a Presentation Pack featuring all five stamps for £10.35.

You can buy the stamps online here.

Essential Posting Dates for Christmas 2024

Royal Mail’s last recommended posting dates for Christmas are as follows:

2nd Class and 2nd Class Signed For: Wednesday, 18 December
1st Class, 1st Class Signed For, and Tracked 48: Friday, 20 December
Tracked 24: Saturday, 21 December
Special Delivery Guaranteed: Monday, 23 December

Staying Safe from Scams

With Christmas being a peak time for online scams, Royal Mail advises customers to be vigilant. Scammers often attempt to exploit the increased volume of holiday deliveries, so Royal Mail has introduced a stamp scanner app that allows customers to verify the authenticity of stamps and prevent fraud.

For tips on recognising scams or reporting suspicious messages, visit Royal Mail’s official website.