Canterbury Enters New Era with First Female Archbishop of Canterbury

A Historic Milestone for Canterbury

Canterbury, the ancient cathedral city in Kent, is preparing for a landmark moment in religious history. Dame Sarah Mullally will become the first woman to hold the office of Archbishop of Canterbury, marking a transformative chapter for both the city and the Church of England. The installation of the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury will take place at Canterbury Cathedral on Wednesday 25 March 2026, the Feast of the Annunciation.

Canterbury Cathedral at the Heart of Change

Canterbury Cathedral, which has stood as the mother church of the worldwide Anglican Communion since the 6th century, will witness this historic ceremony. Mullally was elected by the college of canons in December, with legal confirmation following at St Paul’s Cathedral on 28 January 2026, when she will legally assume the role. Sarah Mullally was announced as the next Archbishop of Canterbury on 3 October 2025, in succession to Justin Welby.

The Archbishop of Canterbury serves multiple significant roles beyond leading the local diocese. The ministry combines serving as Diocesan Bishop of the Diocese of Canterbury, Primate of All England and Metropolitan, as well as first among equals of the Primates of the global Anglican Communion, which consists of around 85 million people across 165 countries.

Canterbury’s Ongoing Cultural Life

While preparing for this momentous ecclesiastical event, Canterbury continues to thrive as a cultural and educational hub. Canterbury Rugby Club enters the new year on a high after their fifth successive win in National League 2 East, demonstrating the city’s vibrant sporting scene. A two-way traffic system through Canterbury’s Westgate Towers will return once works are complete, showing ongoing infrastructure improvements.

Significance for Canterbury and Beyond

For Canterbury residents and visitors alike, March 2026 represents more than just a ceremonial occasion. The installation signals the Church of England’s continued evolution and Canterbury’s enduring role as a centre of religious and historical significance. As the city that has hosted archbishops since St Augustine arrived in 597 CE, Canterbury once again stands at the forefront of ecclesiastical history, welcoming its first female spiritual leader to one of Christianity’s most influential positions.