Accessibility

Ensuring this magnificent building is a place for everyone

Gloucester Cathedral is situated in the heart of Gloucester and is an iconic building which can be glimpsed from several miles away; it is an extremely popular destination for visitors to the area as well as a place for regular worship.

 The Cathedral combines a daily programme of religious services with the opportunity to enjoy glorious architecture, learn about the Cathedral’s long and fascinating history and enjoy the majestic offering of music.  There is always the opportunity to enjoy a moment of quiet prayer, light a candle or leave a prayer note.

 You can also read our Accessibility Guide by clicking on the button below:

Accessibility Guide

Entry by donation

There is no charge to enter the Cathedral, although we do ask visitors to support us by making a donation towards the upkeep of the building if they are able. The suggested donation is £5 per adult, but any amount you can give will be gratefully received. It costs over £6,000 each day keep the Cathedral open. We don't receive any government or regular central church funding so rely on the generosity of our visitors to help look after the building for future generations.

 

Some of the things your donations go towards:

  • Our onsite Stone Masons and the conservation of the building

  • Our Education and Outreach programme

  • Our world class choral music

  • Our Breakfast Club and work with the homeless and vulnerable of Gloucester

Your donation will go towards the conservation of this beautiful building, among many other things
Plan your visit

Click on the button below to find out more about opening times and how to get here.

Car parking and arrival

There are eight parking spaces at the Cathedral which are for use by Blue Badge holders on a first come first served basis.

If none of these spaces are available, you may use any other available parking spaces within the Cathedral Close. Please contact the Cathedral Reception if you require any further information on 01452 528095.

Gloucestershire Highways Works

Please be aware significant repairs are due to start on Monday 11 March to the surface of Westgate Street which will impact vehicle access to College Green.

Gloucestershire Highways have provided the following information:

11/03/24- 12/03/24 Full closure with no access between 18:00 to 00:00

13/03/24- 19/03/24 Access to the Cathedral for LGVs only. No HGV access.

20/03/24- 21/03/24 Normal access

22/03/24 Full closure with no access between 18:00 to 00:00

09/04/24 Full closure with no access between 18:00 to 00:00

Where there is no access at all via this route, St Mary’s Gate will be open for vehicle access.

Inside the Cathedral

There is a level approach to the main entrance of the Cathedral at the South Porch and the door is wheelchair accessible.  The flooring within the Cathedral is made primarily of stone and care should be taken as it is uneven in places.

During March and April 2024 the Cathedral will be trialling a change to our dogs policy. This means that throughout these months, well behaved dogs will be welcome inside the building.

Find out more about the trial

The staff Welcome Team will greet you on arrival at the Cathedral.  Please let them know if you have particular requirements during your visit.  The free Gloucester Cathedral app is available to help you explore the building and we also have a touch centre for orientation located in the South Transept.

Our Welcome Team will greet you as you arrive at the Cathedral

We can provide a wheelchair for the duration of your visit, although you are welcome to use your own wheelchair or mobility scooter if preferred.

 There are three lifts in the Cathedral. If you require any assistance in using them please ask a member of the team. Most areas are wheelchair accessible with aid of the wheelchair lifts except some side chapels which have narrow entrances.

Our friendly volunteers can show you how to operate the lifts if you require assistance

 The Tower, the Tribune Gallery and the Library are not accessible for wheelchairs or for those with mobility difficulties as they are accessed via steep stairs. These areas can be explored digitally using our Virtual Tour available at the Visitor Information Point located in the North Transept.

A hearing loop system operates in the Nave and the Quire.  If you are attending a service, concert or other event, please switch your hearing aid to “T”.

The Treasury

The Treasury is usually open daily.  An alternative level access route into the Treasury is available via the Cloister. Please ask a member of staff or a volunteer if you would like to visit.

Visitor Toilets

There is an accessible toilet which can be reached on level ground via the Cloister.  An emergency alarm pull cord is available if required. 

The Monk's Kitchen Eatery

There is a lift down to The Monk’s Kitchen and alternative level access is available through the exterior entrance to The Monk's Kitchen.

Where possible our food is locally sourced.  We do our best to cater for any dietary requirements; please contact us in advance to check for any specific requests you may have.

 The Monk's Kitchen Eatery is self-service but staff are happy to assist on request.  Large print menus are available and staff can also run through menus with you.

The Monk's Kitchen can cater to a variety of dietary requirements

Gift Shop

The Gift Shop is situated inside the West End of the Cathedral, with a level entrance. 

There is level access to the Gift Shop

Parliament Rooms Function Suite

Due to the nature of this Grade 1 listed building, the first floor Parliament, Laud and Henry Rooms are not wheelchair accessible from the ground floor.  We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.

Chapter House

This can be accessed through the main door from the Cathedral to the Cloisters on level ground.  The stone flooring is uneven in places but the Chapter House entrance is wheelchair accessible.

Sensory resources

We have a range of Sensory Resources available for you to borrow during your visit.  There are three boxes available based on the following themes:

 General Sensory Trail

Walk around trail and objects with suggested stops, ideal for small groups with complex disabilities

Early Years Resources Box

For those around 2-5 years old.  Popular with nursery groups and child minders

Traditions Box

Most suited to an older audience, particularly those living with dementia

 We also have the following individual items that can be borrowed upon request:

  • Children’s ear defenders

  • Binoculars

  • Colouring sheets and pencils

  • Tactile battery operated candle

  • Holding Cross

 Please ask at the Welcome Desk to borrow any of these resources free of charge and just return them before you leave.

We look forward to welcoming you, either for worship or as a visitor

Please advise us if there is anything further we can do to make your visit more enjoyable. If you have any queries or require assistance please contact the Cathedral Office via visits@gloucestercathedral.org.uk or by telephone on 01452 528095.