FAQs
Visiting
Can anyone come into the Cathedral?
Everyone is welcome at Chester Cathedral. We welcome people of all faiths and none. We welcome everyone to come along to discover the Cathedral as visitors, event goers, and in worship.
How do I get in?
Our main entrance is located on St Werburgh St, follow signage for the entrance.
Do you have Wi-Fi?
Yes. We have free public Wi-Fi. There is no password required.
Can I go up the central tower?
Yes, however you can only access the tower on our guided Tower Tour. Click here to book.
Do I have to book to come in?
Booking is not required for regular visiting. We do recommend checking our scheduled closures to avoid any potential disappointment when visiting.
How much is it to enter?
We remain free to enter for the majority of the year with a small entrance fee during summer and Christmas. Donations are always welcome as that is what helps us maintain this magnificent building for future generations to enjoy.
Can I take photos in the building?
Yes. However, photography for commercial use requires permission. Additionally, if you plan on taking wedding photography you must book with the events team and pay a small fee. Please contact hello@chestercathedral.com or 01244 500 959.
Can I bring my dog into the building?
Yes. Well-behaved dogs are welcome in the Cathedral. Please look out for signage of areas dogs are not allowed (such as Café 1092 and the Garth).
Where is the exit?
The exit is the same as the main entrance which can be found off the West Cloister.
How do I book onto a tour?
You can book onto tours here or by speaking with the Welcome Team at the Cathedral.
Can I bring food or drink into the building?
We ask that visitors do not consume food or drink in our buildings. We are a Grade I listed building and a place of worship and carry out an immense amount of work to care for this place of shared heritage. Food and drink can easily be spilt and attracts pests into the building. Cafe 1092 is a great place to refuel during your visit.
Where is the closest parking?
Parking recommendations can be found here
Are you an accessible space?
The Cathedral is mostly accessible, although there are a few areas such as the Lady Chapel, Chapter House, and Garth that have a step. If you require a ramp, please speak to a member of our team and they will assist you in getting a ramp put in place.
About Us
How long has the Cathedral been here?
The foundation date back to 1092 when it was founded as a Benedictine Abbey. It became a Cathedral in 1541.
Why do you ask for donations?
We remain free to enter for most of the year and rely on donations to cover the increasing costs of operation and maintenance.
What is the oldest part of the Cathedral?
There are few parts of Chester Cathedral that are thought to be from the foundation date of 1092, making them the oldest parts of the building. They are: the Norman arch in the North Transept; part of the Baptistry, part of the Cloister, and the Undercroft.
What is the newest part of the Cathedral?
The Pilgrim Porch, installed in 2022 as part of Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee, was designed by Stephen Broadbent and is the newest addition to the Cathedral.
I want to learn more about your history, what can I do?
To learn more about our history visit our History page here or come along on one of our Cathedral Discovery Tours which take place Monday – Saturday.
Worship
Is worship still held in Chester Cathedral?
Yes. Upcoming services and service scheme can be found here
Does the choir sing in services?
The choir sing in many services including Choral Evensong. However, they do not sing on Wednesdays and during school holidays. The Nave Choir also sing services including Compline.
Do I have to be religious to attend a service?
We welcome everyone of all faiths and none to join us in worship.
Do I have to know anything to join a service?
You are welcome to take part in any or none of the service, and guides to each service are available for anyone who would like one.
Does the organ get played during services?
You can hear the Cathedral organ played at many of our services, particularly at Evensong and the Cathedral Eucharist. You can also hear the Cathedral Organ at our weekly organ recital (Thursday 1.10pm)
Can I join a service online?
Yes. Most of our services are livestreamed on our YouTube channel.
Can I pray inside the Cathedral?
People of all faiths and none are welcome to pray or use our buildings for quiet reflection. If you would like support with prayer or personal spirituality a member of our team can assist.
Do people get baptised here?
Yes. Individuals who are a part the Cathedral worship community able to explore baptism with a member of our clergy.
Is this Cathedral Catholic or Protestant?
Chester Cathedral was established as the Roman Catholic Abbey of St Werburgh in 1092 and became a Church of England Cathedral in 1541 following King Henry VIII’s break with Rome and dissolution of the monasteries.
Events
How do I find out about events?
Upcoming events and services can be found on our What’s On page here
What kind of events are hosted here?
We host a variety of events and exhibitions throughout the year including concerts, art exhibitions, book talks, and more. Find out about upcoming events here
How do I book on to an event?
Events can be booked through our website here. Please be advised, we only handle the bookings for our own events as booking for external events is handled by third party and not our in-house team.
Can I host an event at Chester Cathedral?
If you are interested in hosting an event you can find details about venue hire here