Chester Cathedral dates back to 907 AD and has been rebuilt three times. The last construction began in 1250 and lasted for over 250 years. Since then the cathedral has remained essentially unaltered (restoration work was carried out in the 19th century and a stand-alone bell tower was added to grounds in 1975).
There is a small admission charge to enter the cathedral. Each visitor receives a complimentary audio tour. Guided tours are available but must be booked in advance. They are free to paying visitors and can be tailored to suit the interests of the group.
Five cathedrals in North West England will receive a share of an £8 million windfall to fund repairs.
Cathedrals in the region receiving the money from the First World War Centenary Cathedral Repair Fund are Manchester Cathedral (£225,000), Blackburn Cathedral (£314,251), Liverpool Anglican Cathedral (£275,000), Lancaster Cathedral (£15,000), and Chester Cathedral (£300,000).
The money will be used for fixing leaky roofs, repairing stained glass windows, replacing stone, and other urgent work.
The policy of charging to visit a place of worship should be reviewed as a matter of urgency. I would have liked to have a period of reflection on a recent visit – but feel strongly that a £5 admission is wrong.
The cathedral is a wonderful building with a fantastic interior. The garden at the rear is very pleasant and has lots of places to sit and relax. You can also access the city walls here.
Chester Cathedral was originally called St Werburgh’s Abbey.