Celebrate the county of Gloucestershire at Gloucester Cathedral this February

This February Half Term all are warmly welcome to join a celebration of Gloucestershire’s heritage and creativity. From a photography exhibition and family-friendly activities, to tours of the hidden library and a spectacular concert, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Organised in partnership with the High Sheriff of Gloucestershire, these events aim to showcase the county’s beauty, traditions and diversity.

Photography Exhibition

Saturday 15 February – Thursday 27 February, Cathedral opening hours

Experience the county through the lens of local photographers. Camera clubs from across the county—including Gloucester, Cheltenham, Stroud, and the Forest of Dean—will present beautiful images that celebrate the region.

No booking required to admire this exhibition. Donations are welcome.

Hidden Library Tours

Saturday 15 February at 10:45am, 11:45am, 1:45pm and 2:45pm

Step into the Cathedral’s hidden library and explore a treasure trove of historic manuscripts and rare books. Learn how Gloucestershire’s history and geography are captured in these extraordinary archives.

Tickets can be bought in advance on the Cathedral website. Any remaining tickets will be available at the Welcome Desk on the day.

Family Activity Days

Wednesday 19 and Thursday 20 February, 11am–3pm

Bring the whole family to experience Gloucestershire’s heritage, culture and crafts through fun activities:

• Race through the Cloisters with relay challenges inspired by Gloucestershire’s most famous traditions—think cheese rolling, woolsack carrying and more!

• Get creative in the Chapter House with Gloucestershire crafts including apple painting and paper basket weaving.

• Venture into the hidden library to discover stories from Gloucestershire’s past.

No booking is required, and donations to support the Cathedral are warmly appreciated.

“A Celebration of Gloucestershire” Concert

Friday 21 February, 7pm

Enjoy an evening of entertainment inspired by a traditional variety show. Featuring performances from Lydney Training Band, Cotswold Morris Dancers, Stroud Symphony Orchestra and more, this concert celebrates the talents found across Gloucestershire.

Admission to the concert is free, but booking is required. Book on the Cathedral website. A retiring collection will support the Cathedral’s In Tune music campaign and the Anne Cadbury Fund for apprenticeships.

Canon Rebecca Lloyd, Director of Learning and Participation at Gloucester Cathedral said:

“It has been wonderful working in collaboration with the High Sheriff on this diverse and exciting programme of activities and events to celebrate the wonderful county we call home.

There is plenty to discover in this county, from its natural beauty and unique history to its stunning architecture, weird and wonderful folk traditions and, of course, our Cathedral which serves the whole county (and beyond). I hope these events will remind us all how lucky we are to live in such an amazing place, and how the Cathedral reflects and celebrates the best of our city, county and diocese.”

Mark Hurrell, The High Sheriff of Gloucestershire added:

“I’ve greatly enjoyed working with the Cathedral team on A Celebration of Gloucestershire. The concert in particular will be a wonderful occasion, where we will bring together a wide variety of performers and celebrate the talents of those who live and work in this brilliant county. Let’s get together for a fun evening to celebrate the amazing activities that our county provides. Do come and join us!”

For more information on A Celebration of Gloucestershire, or to book tickets for specific events, please visit the Gloucester Cathedral website.

ENDS

Notes to Editors

For further press information, please email:

Elspeth Keep, Elspeth.keep@gloucestercathedral.org.uk