Advent and Christmas 2024
All is Calm, All is Bright at Gloucester Cathedral this Advent and Christmas!
All are welcome
Gloucester Cathedral is one of Britain’s greatest buildings, representing over 1,300 years of Christian faith and heritage. The monks who first lived and worshipped here followed The Rule of St Benedict which teaches that all should be welcomed as Christ himself. Today we extend that warm welcome to you.
The Cathedral’s stories are intertwined with Britain’s history. From its origins in around 679, the Cathedral has developed into a centre of worship, music and learning.
For generations people have been drawn here by the Cathedral’s holiness and beauty. Today you are following in their footsteps.
We hope you enjoy your visit.
If you can't find the information you need here, please don't hesitate to contact us.
Entry to the Cathedral for general visiting is by voluntary donation. The suggested contribution is:
Adult: £5
Family: £10
It costs £7,600 per day to keep the Cathedral open. As a charity which doesn’t receive any regular Government funding, we rely on the generosity of our visitors to look after this ancient building.
Thank you for your support.
Discover our visiting opening hours here.
All is Calm, All is Bright at Gloucester Cathedral this Advent and Christmas!
Everything you need to know to plan your visit, including opening times and directions.
A perfect day out for families whatever the weather.
Plan the perfect visit for your group
We are committed to ensuring that Gloucester Cathedral is accessible for all.
Discover some of the world’s finest examples of medieval architecture, from the giant pillars of the Norman Nave to the earliest surviving example of soaring Gothic Perpendicular. Other highlights include a stained glass window the size of a tennis court and intricate fan vaulting, a style that was invented right here during the 1300s.
From William the Conqueror and his Domesday Book, to the grand tomb of the murdered King Edward II, discover the fascinating stories of how Britain’s monarchs have influenced the Cathedral’s 1,000 year history and left their mark on the building.
Gloucester Cathedral’s medieval Cloister is famous for appearing as parts of Hogwarts in three of the Harry Potter films. The monks’ daily lives revolved around this area and now you can marvel at the beautiful fan-vaulted ceiling, see the monks’ communal washing area and enjoy the peaceful garden with spectacular views of the Tower.
In Gloucester Cathedral you’ll find dazzling examples of stained glass from across the ages. The medieval Great East Window (the largest in the world when it was built!), the finest Arts and Crafts glass in England located in the Lady Chapel and vibrant contemporary stained glass by local artist Tom Denny, are amongst the treasures.
Our virtual tour allows you to navigate through this remarkable sacred space from wherever you are in the world
10am-5pm
10am-4pm
12 noon–2.30pm and 4pm-5pm
Sometimes our opening times vary due to special events and services. Please click here to check our daily 'What’s On' calendar for the most up to date information.
The Cathedral is located in the historic heart of Gloucester and our spectacular tower can be seen from many spots in and around the city.
Click here to download or print off a guide on ‘Getting to Gloucester Cathedral’
We are sorry that due to limited space, parking in the Cathedral Close is restricted to pass holders only.
There are eight disabled parking spaces which are for use by Blue Badge holders on a first come first served basis.
However, there are several public car parks within easy walking distance of the Cathedral.
To find out more please download our parking guide or click here for up-to-date information.
The Cathedral is located in Gloucester Town Centre, so the best way to get here is by public transport.
We are a 10-15 minute walk from both the train and bus stations. You can also use Gloucester’s Park and Ride.
Cycling is a great way to get around Gloucester - the city is easy to explore on two wheels.
There are bike racks available on Cathedral Green. Route 41 of the National Cycle Network runs through the Cathedral grounds – find out more about the route here.
Looking to hire a bike in Gloucester? Discover your options here.