Gloucester Cathedral

Gloucester Cathedral featuring heritage architecture, a church or cathedral and interior views
Gloucester Cathedral which includes interior views, a church or cathedral and heritage architecture
Gloucester Cathedral featuring art, a church or cathedral and interior views
Gloucester Cathedral showing a church or cathedral, interior views and heritage architecture
Gloucester Cathedral which includes a church or cathedral and interior views as well as an individual female


Home to the tomb of King Edward II, this magnificent 1,300-year-old cathedral was also a filming location for the Harry Potter movies.

Visit Gloucester Cathedral to discover centuries of British art, architecture and history at one of its most impressive cathedrals. Admire the range of architectural styles, descend down to the ancient crypt and enjoy views of Gloucestershire’s lush countryside from the tower. Walk in the footsteps of celebrated kings and famous movie stars.

Gloucester Cathedral dates back to around A.D. 678, when it was established as a simple abbey. In 1089 work began on church that has developed as Gloucester Cathedral. Continuing work in the 1300s was in the Perpendicular style. Take a moment to observe the Gothic, Norman and Romanesque features of the exterior. Spot expertly carved gargoyles and look up at the 225-foot-tall (69-meter) central tower.

Step inside to discover a glorious nave characterized by its Norman pillars and zigzagging arches. Go to the choir to see fine examples of medieval and Victoria misericords. Gaze in awe at the 14th-century Great East Window, which depicts the Virgin Mary and Jesus flanked by apostles, saints and martyrs. Get a close view of the window which is the size of a tennis court.

Pause for contemplation at the tomb and stone effigy of King Edward II, who died under suspicious circumstances at Berkeley Castle. Also here is the tomb of Robert of Normandy, the son of William the Conqueror.

Stroll through the cloister, crowned by an exquisite fan-vaulted ceiling. This area of the church was used when filming scenes from three Harry Potter movies. Join a guided tour of the crypt, home to some of the cathedral’s oldest remains. Climb the 269-step spiral staircase to the top of the tower and appreciate the inspiring views of the encompassing Cotswold landscapes.

Experience the cathedral’s acoustics by attending carol concerts and organ recitals. Browse temporary art exhibitions and watch stonemasons work diligently to maintain the grandeur of the cathedral’s stonework.

Gloucester Cathedral is in the heart of Gloucester’s city center and is open daily. Admission and guided tours are free, although donations are welcome. Purchase a self-guided brochure for a small fee at the cathedral’s gift shop.

Reviews of Gloucester Cathedral

4.6
Top destination
5 - Excellent
62
5 - Excellent 67%
4 - Good
26
4 - Good 28%
3 - Okay
3
3 - Okay 3%
2 - Disappointing
2
2 - Disappointing 2%
1 - Terrible
0
1 - Terrible 0%

4/5 - Good

Verified traveller

Beautiful cathedral but Gloucester town centre is not worth a visit

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

Free on site parking for blue badge holders. (drive through pedestrian shopping area)Good accessibility for disabled with personal lifts. Lots to see. Site restaurant "Monk's Kitchen" crowded but good value

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

A very beautiful place - give yourself plenty of time to wander around - a great deal to see and admire.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

A staggeringly beautiful and well maintained historic cathedral, don't miss the cloister and hidden garden for quiet thought. This is a real place of worship and we were lucky enough to hear evensong. I was very pleased to give the suggested donation of £5, Westminster Abbey, which charges an entry fee four times that amount per person, was a very unpleasant and disappointing experience.

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Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Gloucester Cathedral

At Gloucester Cathedral, visitors can enjoy a range of activities including guided tours that delve into its rich history and stunning architecture. Additionally, the area offers relaxing spa experiences and enjoyable walking routes, allowing tourists to explore the picturesque surroundings. Whether you're interested in the cathedral's sacred heritage or the charming local amenities, there's plenty to keep you engaged during your visit.

Shopping

The nearest shopping spot is Gloucester Quays, only 966m from the Cathedral, offering a vibrant mix of shops and entertainment. If you're up for a drive, consider visiting Highgrove Shop in Tetbury, 25.7km away, or The Mall at Cribbs Causeway, 45.1km away, for more extensive shopping options.

Recreation

Kingsholm Stadium, located 644m from Gloucester Cathedral, offers a vibrant sports atmosphere perfect for energising activities. Robinswood Hill Country Park, 3.2km away, provides a peaceful retreat with scenic walks and relaxation spots. Haresfield Beacon, 9.7km distant, invites you to unwind amidst stunning views and nature.

Adventure

At Gloucester Cathedral, you can enjoy thrilling adventures nearby. Experience the excitement of skiing at Gloucester Ski and Snowboard Centre, located 3.2km away. For karting enthusiasts, JDR Karting offers exhilarating races just 1.6km from the Cathedral. Additionally, Prescott Speed Hill Climb, 13.2km away, promises exhilarating motor racing.

Nightlife

In Gloucester, Cineworld Gloucester Quays offers a romantic cinema experience just 805m from the Cathedral, while the Everyman Theatre and Cheltenham Playhouse, both 12.9km away, provide cultural performances perfect for families and couples alike, creating a vibrant nightlife atmosphere.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Gloucester Cathedral

Gloucester Cathedral offers a rich tapestry of attractions for visitors, including the stunning architectural beauty of the church itself, serene urban parks, and the contemporary vibe of nearby colleges and universities. These points of interest provide a delightful blend of cultural experiences, family-friendly activities, and urban exploration, making it an ideal destination for those seeking to immerse themselves in the history and vibrancy of Gloucester.

  • Cheltenham Town Hall: This modern civic building, located 12.9km from Gloucester Cathedral, exudes a professional atmosphere. It often hosts events, concerts, and exhibitions, making it a lively hub of community activity.
  • University of Gloucestershire, Oxstalls Campus: Situated 1.6km away, this contemporary university offers a vibrant city vibe. Its modern facilities and diverse student body create an energetic environment, perfect for exploring academic and cultural pursuits.
  • Gloucester Guildhall: Only 322m from the Cathedral, this historic venue is rich in culture and heritage. It hosts a range of events, from film screenings to performances, showcasing local talent and arts.

Best time to go to Gloucester Cathedral

The best time to visit Gloucester Cathedral is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January39.4°F (4.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February40.5°F (4.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March43.2°F (6.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly High
April47.1°F (8.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
May52.7°F (11.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
June58.3°F (14.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
July61.9°F (16.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
August61.2°F (16.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
September57.4°F (14.1°C)No RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
October52.0°F (11.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November45.3°F (7.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
December41.7°F (5.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Gloucester Cathedral

To save money on your visit to Gloucester Cathedral, consider travelling during the off-peak months of December to February when accommodation prices are lower. Booking your stay on a Thursday rather than a Saturday can also help you save. Use Expedia to find budget-friendly hotels by applying filters for eco-certified options and arranging prices from low to high. Additionally, combining your accommodation with flights and activities can lead to significant savings. Don't forget to explore free attractions in the area to enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Gloucester Cathedral are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March and June to July, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Gloucester Cathedral is Thursday. The most expensive day to stay around Gloucester Cathedral is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are currently available. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from low to high.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Gloucester Cathedral with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.