Gloucester Cathedral

Gloucester Cathedral showing a church or cathedral, heritage architecture and interior views
Gloucester Cathedral showing a church or cathedral, heritage architecture and interior views
Gloucester Cathedral showing interior views, a church or cathedral and art
Gloucester Cathedral which includes 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-metre) 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 centre 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.

Plan a trip to see Gloucester Cathedral

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Dancenter Birmingham Airport Near Nec
The Class Place
Lea Marston Hotel

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The New County Hotel

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Friary House Serviced Apartments by Roomsbooked - 24Hr Reception

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Central Hotel Gloucester by Roomsbooked

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City Centre Guest House - Gloucester Park

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4BR(Sleeps 8)3BathR Hot Tub, WiFi, TVs in 4 Rooms, 3min walk Kingsholm Stadium

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The Judges Lodgings Boutique Hotel

The Judges Lodgings Boutique Hotel

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Things to do near Gloucester Cathedral

Explore the stunning Gloucester Cathedral on foot, taking in its breathtaking architecture and rich history. Don't miss the festive Christmas concert, a delightful experience that captures the spirit of the season. Nearby, you can indulge in a relaxing spa day or enjoy a leisurely walk around the picturesque surroundings, making your visit to Gloucester truly memorable.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience near Gloucester Cathedral, head to Gloucester Quays, just 373m away, offering a vibrant mix of shops and entertainment. If you're up for a drive, Market House is 8.7km away, and The Mall at Cribbs Causeway is 17.4km distant.

Recreation

Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Kingsholm Stadium, 249m from Gloucester Cathedral, where you can enjoy local sports events. For serenity, Haresfield Beacon, 3.7km away, offers stunning views and peaceful walks, while Painswick Golf Club, 5.0km away, combines outdoor sports with beautiful landscapes.

Adventure

At Gloucester Ski and Snowboard Centre, located 1.2km from the cathedral, enjoy thrilling skiing and snowboarding amid a vibrant sports atmosphere. For a rush of adrenaline, head to JDR Karting, only 621m away, offering exhilarating karting experiences. For motorsport enthusiasts, Prescott Speed Hill Climb, 11.2km away, promises exciting motor racing challenges.

Nightlife

Experience a vibrant evening at Cineworld Gloucester Quays for the latest films, just a short stroll from the cathedral. For a cultural touch, catch a performance at the Everyman Theatre or Cheltenham Playhouse, both offering a blend of entertainment and romance only a short drive away.

Find the best attractions near Gloucester Cathedral

Gloucester Cathedral offers a rich blend of cultural and family-friendly experiences. Visitors can explore the stunning architecture of the cathedral itself and also enjoy nearby attractions such as urban parks and modern educational institutions. Whether you're seeking a serene outdoor experience or a dive into local heritage, Gloucester Cathedral and its surroundings provide a memorable backdrop for your visit.

  • Hartpury University and Hartpury College: Located 2.5km from Gloucester Cathedral, this modern institution offers a vibrant atmosphere that blends academic pursuits with city life. It's an ideal spot for those interested in contemporary education and campus culture.
  • Cheltenham Town Hall: Situated 5.0km away, this modern civic building showcases a mix of business and community vibes. Its stunning architecture and regular events make it a hub of local activity, perfect for visitors interested in civic engagement.
  • Gloucester Waterways Museum: Just 124m from the cathedral, this museum immerses you in the rich maritime history of the area. With interactive exhibits and a charming setting, it’s a cultural treasure for all ages.

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 CloudyAverageAverage
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 Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
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. Thursdays typically offer the best rates for stays, while Saturdays are the priciest. Use Expedia to compare hotel options, focusing on eco-certified accommodations for sustainability. Additionally, bundling your hotel, flights, and activities through Expedia can lead to significant savings. Always sort by price to find the best deals available.

  • 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, May and 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 currently available. To find the best prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can make significant savings by combining your hotel reservation at Gloucester Cathedral with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.