Royal Mail reveals Christmas 2024 stamps including St Mary's Episcopal Cathedral in Edinburgh

Royal Mail has revealed its Christmas stamps, which include a historic Scots location in Edinburgh.

The postal service shared images of five stamps being issued to celebrate Christmas 2024.

The stamps feature some of the UK’s most famous cathedrals, including Edinburgh’s St Mary’s Episcopal Cathedral.

Consecrated in 1879, St Mary’s is the largest cathedral in Scotland today and maintains the tradition of regular choral worship, never more elaborate than at Christmas.

The stamps also feature Liverpool Cathedral, St Patrick’s Cathedral, Armagh (Church of Ireland), St Deiniol’s Cathedral, Bangor, and Westminister Cathedral.

The stamps were illustrated by Penzance-based artist Judy Joel, whose popular paintings have been sold worldwide over the last 50 years.

Canon Janet Gough, OBE, said: “These special stamps are a reminder that for centuries past, cathedrals have provided sanctuary, community, joy and wonder at the birth of Christ.

St Patrick's Cathedral, Armagh (Church of Ireland). — St Patrick’s Cathedral, Armagh (Church of Ireland). Royal Mail

“And they continue to do so today, standing at the very heart of our cities. All the UK’s cathedrals will be open over Christmas, ready to welcome people of all faiths and none,” she said.

“For services, prayer and celebration, to find peace, or to enjoy the splendour of their music, architecture and treasures, visit a cathedral this Christmas!”

St Deiniol's Cathedral, Bangor. — St Deiniol’s Cathedral, Bangor. Royal Mail

David Gold, director of External Affairs and Policy said: “Cathedrals are a hugely significant part of our cultural heritage and play an important role in local communities.

He added: “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.”