Gloucester Cathedral has been one of Gloucestershire's most iconic buildings for over 1,300 years.
With outstanding examples of Romanesque and Perpendicular Architecture; a spectacular medieval stained-glass window the size of a tennis court; not to mention the tomb of King Edward II, there is so much to marvel at inside the beautiful building.
Film fans can explore the cathedral’s medieval cloisters, originally built to house Benedictine monks, which have since been used as the backdrop to Hollywood blockbuster movies and award-winning period dramas.
While history buffs can take a tour of the Library, the Crypt, or head to the top of the cathedral on one of its special Tower Tours. At 225 feet high, visitors are rewarded with stunning views across the historic Roman city of Gloucester after climbing to the top of the cathedral’s 269 steps. There’s also the chance to see Great Peter, the only medieval bell of its size still in use in England.
There’s interactive fun to be had in the Tribune Gallery, too — giving younger visitors the chance to dress up as a character from the cathedral’s Great East Window, design their own gruesome gargoyle and view never-before-seen footage of the cathedral from above.
There’s also The Monk’s Kitchen serving up delicious, homemade food and cakes, including a takeaway afternoon tea to enjoy on Cathedral Green on sunny days.
Hosting a series of family friendly events such as festivals, plays, live music and art installations, through to more traditional workshops and historic tours, Gloucester Cathedral is a hive of activity all year-round.
As well as soaking up the cathedral’s history, visitors are also encouraged to take part in the fully inclusive services held each day. Everyone is welcome, whether they are local to Gloucestershire or simply visiting for the day.
Services are open to people from any faith, those who do not identify with a specific faith and practicing Christians alike.
