Chance to go behind the scene at Gloucester Cathedral

On Saturday 22, Friday 28 and Saturday 29 October, Gloucester Cathedral invites you to ‘Access All Most Areas’, where visitors will be able to explore this magnificent building in a completely new way.

During these special evening openings, a number of the Cathedral’s most historic, secret and intriguing spaces will be open to the public, some for the first time ever. This includes the 17^th century Organ Loft, the Song School where the Cathedral Choristers practice, and the Vestry which contains remarkable medieval paintings. These spaces are usually off-limits to the public, so this is a rare opportunity to see them first-hand. There will also be the chance to explore the historic Parliament Rooms, where Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn once stayed, as well as the opportunity to experience the oldest part of the Cathedral, the Crypt, in the same way that the medieval monks would have, bathed in candlelight and filled with the sounds of plainsong chant. Visitors are asked to book in advance via the Cathedral website, and tickets for the evening cost £7.50 for adults and £3 for children (under 5s go free). The first entry time is 6.30pm, and the last entry time is 8.45pm.

There is also the option to purchase a ‘VIP’ ticket which includes a 55-minute tour of the Cathedral Tower and the unforgettable experience of looking out over the city at night; this costs £20 for adults and £8 for children. Alternatively, there is the option to purchase a ‘VIP’ ticket with access to the medieval Cathedral Library, where visitors will be able to listen to a beautiful, immersive soundscape. This costs £10 for adults and £4 for children. Visit the Cathedral website to find out more and to book tickets in advance. 

The Monk’s Kitchen will be open throughout the evening so that you can treat yourself to a hot drink and slice of delicious homemade cake, and the Gift Shop will be open too for those who wish to pick up a souvenir or make a start on their Christmas shopping. There will also be fun craft activities on offer, which are suitable for all the family.

The family fun continues with the all-new ‘Stones and Bones’ trail, which will be available between Saturday 15 October and Saturday 5 November. ‘Novice Norman’ has lost his book, so as part of the trail, visitors will need to hunt for clues around the building to help him find it. The trail is free to take part in, with no booking required, but donations to the Cathedral are welcome. It will be available during normal Cathedral opening hours, as well as during the ‘Access All Most Areas’ evening openings.

Between Thursday 27 and Saturday 29 October, the Cathedral will also be running family craft activities in the Chapter House. All the activities will have an autumnal theme, offering the ideal way to spend the October Half Term. The sessions will run from 12.30pm-3.30pm and are free to take part in, with all materials provided. Visitors are asked to email education@gloucestercathedral.org.uk to book a slot in advance, but walk-ins on the day will also be welcome.

Further details about all these events can be found on the Cathedral website (gloucestercathedral.org.uk/whats-on).

Gloucester News Centre – http://gloucesternewscentre.co.uk