Gloucester Cathedral
12 College Grn, Gloucester, England
One of England’s greatest medieval religious buildings, Gloucester Cathedral has loomed over the city’s rooftops since the mid-1400s. As well as housing the 14th-century tomb of King Edward II, highlights of this Gothic masterpiece include its central tower and elaborately vaulted cloisters—the latter featured in a number of Harry Potter movies.
The basics
While you can explore Gloucester Cathedral—both inside and out—free of charge, you’re requested to make a donation on entry. You also have the option of paying to join a range of in-house tours, which cover its general highlights including the tower, crypt, and library.
The cathedral figures on several sightseeing tours that run in and around Gloucester, many of which reflect particular themes. Topping the list are Harry Potter tours from London, which visit the cathedral to see its cloisters—which doubled as Hogwarts in three of the franchise’s cinematic outings—and also visit Cotswolds beauty spots like Lacock. Guided Gloucester ghost walks and self-guided city audio tours also include exterior cathedral stops.
Things to know before you go
Gloucester Cathedral is a must-visit for history, architecture, and Harry Potter enthusiasts.
Visitors can book places for in-house tours on the day, but tower and library tours require advance booking online.
The cathedral’s ground floor is wheelchair-accessible, but the crypt, tower, and library are not.
On-site amenities include restrooms, a gift shop, and a café.
How to get there
Gloucester Cathedral is approximately a 10-minute walk from Gloucester train station, which is served by regular trains from London. On arrival, follow Bruton Way, Northgate Street, Westgate Street, and College Street to the cathedral. Gloucester bus station is around the same walking distance, via Kings Square, St. Aldate, and Northgate Street. If driving, use Gloucester’s Park and Ride service, or follow the cathedral signs and park in the nearby—but often busy—car parks.
When to get there
Gloucester Cathedral is typically open from 10am to 5pm on weekdays, with slightly reduced hours on Saturdays, while on Sundays it’s open for the afternoon only. Times can vary due to special events and services, so it’s best to check before visiting. In-house tours run at regular times during opening hours.
Highlights of Gloucester Cathedral
There’s much to see at Gloucester Cathedral. Don’t miss the ornate tomb of the reputedly murdered King Edward II, and the luminous stained glass of the massive Great East Window. Other highlights include the views from the tower, and the spectacular fan-vaulting in the cloisters, used as a backdrop in the Harry Potter films.
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