Gloucester Cathedral: A Timeless Masterpiece of History and Architecture
Explore Gloucester Cathedral’s 1,300 years of history, stunning architecture, royal tombs, and iconic cloisters in the heart of Gloucester.
Gloucester Cathedral, located in the heart of Gloucester, England, is a magnificent medieval cathedral with over 1,300 years of history. Renowned for its stunning Gothic, Norman, and Romanesque architecture, the cathedral houses the tomb of King Edward II and features the breathtaking Great East Window. Visitors can explore the fan-vaulted cloisters, ancient crypt, and climb the tower for panoramic views of the Cotswold countryside. Entry is by donation, and guided tours reveal fascinating stories and heritage.
A brief summary to Gloucester Cathedral
- 12 College Grn, Gloucester, GL1 2LX, GB
- +441452528095
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Consider joining a guided tour to fully appreciate the cathedral’s history, architecture, and hidden spaces like the crypt and tower.
- Visit the fan-vaulted cloisters, famous as a Harry Potter filming location, and take time to admire the Great East Window’s medieval stained glass.
- Entry is by voluntary donation; the suggested contribution is £5 for adults and £10 for families to help maintain the cathedral.
- Accessibility is well catered for, including facilities for disabled visitors, hearing and visually impaired guests, and assistance dogs.
- Climb the 269-step tower staircase for panoramic views of the Cotswold countryside, but be prepared for a physically demanding ascent.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Train
From London Paddington, take a direct train to Gloucester station, approximately 2 hours. From the station, a taxi or bus ride of about 10 minutes will bring you to the cathedral. Train fares typically range from £20 to £50 depending on booking time.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Gloucester city center with the cathedral area. Bus journeys from Gloucester Bus Station take around 10 to 15 minutes. Tickets cost approximately £2 to £4. Buses run frequently but check schedules for Sunday variations.
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Car
Driving to Gloucester Cathedral is convenient via the M5 motorway. Parking is available in nearby city center car parks, typically costing £5 to £10 for a few hours. Note that some parking areas may be busy during peak times and weekends.
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Walking
If staying in Gloucester city center, the cathedral is a pleasant 5 to 10-minute walk through historic streets. The terrain is mostly flat and accessible, suitable for visitors with moderate mobility.
Gloucester Cathedral location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Gloucester Cathedral
Architectural Grandeur Spanning Centuries
Gloucester Cathedral stands as a remarkable testament to over 1,300 years of British ecclesiastical architecture. Originating as a simple abbey around A.D. 678, the cathedral evolved through Norman, Romanesque, and Gothic styles, culminating in the striking Perpendicular Gothic work of the 1300s. Its exterior showcases expertly carved gargoyles and a soaring 225-foot central tower, while inside, the nave is distinguished by Norman pillars and zigzag arches. The Great East Window, a national treasure, spans the size of a tennis court and displays intricate medieval stained glass depicting biblical figures.Historical Significance and Royal Connections
The cathedral is the final resting place of notable figures such as King Edward II, whose tomb and stone effigy lie within its walls, and Robert of Normandy, son of William the Conqueror. Gloucester Cathedral also played a role in royal ceremonies, including the coronation of King Henry III. These royal associations add layers of historical depth, making the cathedral not only a place of worship but a monument to England’s medieval heritage.Enchanting Cloisters and Cultural Legacy
One of the cathedral’s most famous architectural features is its fan-vaulted medieval cloisters, celebrated as some of the finest in the country. These cloisters gained additional fame as a filming location for several Harry Potter movies, enchanting visitors with their cinematic magic. The cathedral continues to serve as a vibrant cultural hub, hosting concerts, exhibitions, and educational tours that highlight its rich history and ongoing conservation efforts.Visitor Experience and Accessibility
Open daily with entry by voluntary donation, Gloucester Cathedral welcomes all visitors to explore its vast interior, crypt, and tower. Guided tours led by expert guides provide insights into the lives of the monks, architectural details, and historical anecdotes. Accessibility features include facilities for disabled visitors, hearing and visually impaired accommodations, and assistance dogs are permitted. The on-site Undercroft restaurant and gift shop enhance the visitor experience.Natural Surroundings and Panoramic Views
Climbing the 269-step spiral staircase to the tower rewards visitors with sweeping views of the lush Gloucestershire countryside and the Cotswolds beyond. The cathedral’s setting in Gloucester’s city center offers a harmonious blend of urban charm and natural beauty, making it a scenic and tranquil destination for reflection and photography.Preservation and Community Engagement
As a charity relying on donations, Gloucester Cathedral invests in ongoing maintenance and heritage conservation, including the work of skilled stonemasons. It also fosters community through worship services, music training, and social responsibility initiatives. Visitors contribute to preserving this historic landmark, ensuring its legacy for future generations.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Eastgate viewing chamber
0.4 km
Discover Gloucester’s ancient Roman and medieval city defenses through a unique underground viewing chamber beneath Eastgate Street.
The Bee Shelter, Hartpury
7.0 km
Discover Hartpury’s unique 19th-century Bee Shelter, a stunning stone monument celebrating Gloucestershire’s rich beekeeping heritage and Victorian craftsmanship.
Visit Cotswolds Online
7.0 km
Explore the enchanting Cotswolds, where rolling hills, historic villages, and breathtaking landscapes await every traveler seeking an unforgettable adventure.
Gloucestershire Historic Churches Trust
7.0 km
Explore the rich ecclesiastical heritage of Gloucestershire through its historic churches, showcasing stunning architecture and engaging community initiatives.
Haresfield Topograph
10.4 km
A three-dimensional map landmark on the Cotswold escarpment with panoramic views toward Wales.
May Hill
13.8 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of May Hill, a mountain peak in Longhope offering stunning views, hiking trails, and a serene escape into nature.
Sim's Clock
13.8 km
Historic Sim's Clock stands as a timeless symbol in Stroud’s vibrant George Street, blending heritage with community spirit.
Visit The Cotswolds
14.6 km
Discover the charm of the Cotswolds, a stunning region filled with picturesque villages, breathtaking landscapes, and rich history.
The Garden at Miserden
14.7 km
Discover the serene beauty of The Garden at Miserden, a stunning oasis in the Cotswolds perfect for nature lovers and relaxation seekers.
Walk The Cotswolds
14.7 km
Explore the Cotswolds' breathtaking landscapes and charming villages with Walk The Cotswolds, your gateway to England's picturesque countryside adventures.
Tewkesbury Abbey
14.9 km
Explore Tewkesbury Abbey, a stunning medieval masterpiece rich in history and breathtaking architecture, nestled in the heart of Tewkesbury.
World Walks (inc. Cotswold Journeys, British & Irish Walks)
16.5 km
Explore the captivating beauty of the Cotswolds with World Walks, your gateway to unforgettable guided walking tours across Britain and Ireland.
Cotswold Journeys
16.6 km
Explore the enchanting Cotswolds on expertly crafted walking tours with seamless logistics and charming local stays.
Cleeve Hill
17.5 km
Explore Cleeve Hill, the highest peak in the Cotswolds, offering breathtaking views, enchanting trails, and a rich tapestry of wildlife.
Woodchester Mansion Trust
17.5 km
Explore the intriguing Woodchester Mansion, a historical gem showcasing Victorian architecture and enchanting landscapes in the heart of Gloucestershire.
Unmissable attractions to see
The House Of The Tailor Of Gloucester
0.1 km
Step into Beatrix Potter’s enchanting world at the House of The Tailor of Gloucester, where story and history come alive in a charming museum and shop.
Cathedral Quarter Gloucester
0.1 km
Explore Gloucester’s historic Cathedral Quarter, where ancient streets meet vibrant culture and timeless heritage.
Gloucester Antiques Centre
0.1 km
Explore three floors of antiques and collectibles in Gloucester’s historic Old Judges House, featuring over 40 specialist dealers and a vast range of treasures.
Gloucestershire Arts & Crafts Centre
0.1 km
Discover handmade treasures and creative workshops in the heart of Gloucester, where local artists showcase their craft in a welcoming city-centre space.
Folk of Gloucester
0.2 km
Step into Gloucester’s living history at The Folk, a vibrant Tudor museum and community hub celebrating local heritage and culture.
St Oswald's Priory
0.2 km
Explore Gloucester’s oldest surviving Saxon monument, where royal history and medieval ruins tell tales of faith and power.
Robert Raikes's House
0.3 km
Step into history at Robert Raikes's House, a beautifully restored 16th-century merchant’s home turned charming pub in the heart of Gloucester.
Eastgate Shopping Centre
0.3 km
A vibrant indoor shopping and community hub in Gloucester’s city centre, blending unique shops, local market charm, and welcoming amenities.
Blackfriars Priory
0.4 km
Explore one of England’s finest medieval Dominican priories, blending rich history, stunning timber architecture, and vibrant modern events in Gloucester.
Gloucestershire Revealed
0.4 km
Discover Gloucestershire’s rich heritage through archives, exhibitions, and family history at the Gloucestershire Heritage Hub in Gloucester.
Greyfriars
0.4 km
Explore Greyfriars in Gloucester, a historical landmark that showcases stunning architecture and rich heritage, perfect for all history lovers.
Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum
0.4 km
Explore over 300 years of Gloucestershire military heritage through immersive exhibits and personal stories at Gloucester’s historic Docks museum.
Museum Of Gloucester
0.4 km
Explore Gloucester’s rich Roman heritage, Victorian charm, and vibrant community spirit at the Museum of Gloucester.
Gloucester Docks
0.6 km
Explore Gloucester Docks, a vibrant Victorian waterfront blending rich maritime history, museums, shopping, dining, and scenic canal views.
St.Oswalds Retail Park
0.7 km
Gloucester’s vibrant retail park offering diverse shopping, dining, and a welcoming atmosphere for all budgets and tastes.
Essential places to dine
Comfy Pew Cafe Bistro
0.1 km
Cozy, friendly café in Gloucester offering delicious breakfast and lunch with gluten-free and vegan options near the cathedral.
Bangkok Canteen Gloucester
0.1 km
Gloucester’s premier gluten-free Thai restaurant blending authentic flavors with sustainable, locally sourced ingredients in a cozy city-center setting.
Tiger's Eye Restaurant
0.3 km
Historic Gloucester’s Tiger's Eye offers interactive Pan-Asian fusion dining with hot rock grilling and a vibrant cocktail bar atmosphere.
The March Hare
0.3 km
A cozy tearoom in Gloucester’s historic Oxbode offering fresh local fare and friendly service from morning to afternoon.
Sebz
0.3 km
Authentic Mediterranean tapas and vibrant wine bar in Gloucester’s historic Northgate Street, blending fresh flavors with a lively atmosphere.
Topoly's
0.4 km
Authentic family-run Italian dining in the heart of Gloucester, serving fresh homemade dishes since 1990 in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Aroma
0.5 km
Authentic Indian and Bangladeshi flavors served with impeccable hospitality in the heart of Gloucester’s historic Southgate Street.
Settebello Trattoria
0.6 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors with panoramic dockside views at Gloucester’s beloved Settebello Trattoria.
Nepalese Chef
0.6 km
Experience authentic Nepalese and Asian fusion cuisine with a welcoming atmosphere and diverse menu in the heart of Gloucester.
Greek on the Docks
0.6 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine and vibrant Mediterranean flavors with stunning waterfront views in the heart of Gloucester Docks.
The Tall Ship
0.7 km
Historic Grade II listed pub in Gloucester Docks offering excellent British food, great beer, live music, and a lively social atmosphere.
The Barge
0.7 km
A cozy family-run spot in Gloucester Docks serving hearty English classics with a welcoming bring-your-own-drinks policy.
Bill's Gloucester Quays Restaurant
0.8 km
A relaxed, modern British restaurant at Gloucester Quays, perfect for a post-shopping meal or casual catch-up with friends and family.
Côte Gloucester
0.8 km
Modern French brasserie offering refined cuisine and warm service in Gloucester Quays, now closed but fondly remembered.
The Lock Keepers
1.8 km
A serene riverside restaurant and hotel near Gloucester, offering seasonal dishes, warm service, and cozy accommodation in a charming setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Pilgrims Gloucester
0.1 km
Discover unique gifts and a cosy, atmospheric shopping experience in the heart of historic Gloucester.
L&S Lifestyle
0.1 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish finds in a cozy boutique setting at L&S Lifestyle, Gloucester’s charming gift shop on College Street.
Chez Rose
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts and shabby chic treasures in a warm, welcoming boutique nestled in Gloucester’s historic Westgate Street.
King's Walk
0.4 km
Gloucester’s central shopping destination featuring popular high street brands and convenient dining in a lively city centre setting.
Westgate Retail Park
0.5 km
Convenient shopping with free parking and a variety of homeware stores in the heart of Gloucester’s Westgate Street.
Upstairs Downstairs
0.6 km
Discover Gloucester’s charming antique shop with unique collectibles and a cozy tearoom serving homemade treats.
Gift Company
0.9 km
Discover unique gifts and charming homeware at The Gift Company, nestled in the vibrant Gloucester Quays outlet by the historic docks.
Gloucester Quays
1.0 km
Discover designer bargains and festive charm at Gloucester Quays, a lively waterfront outlet set within historic docks.
Cotswold Creates
5.9 km
Discover unique artisan gifts and handcrafted treasures that capture the heart of the Cotswolds in Gloucester’s welcoming Cotswold Creates.
Willow Hilson Vintage
11.3 km
Authentic vintage fashion from the 1920s to 1960s in a charming Cheltenham boutique with artistic flair and photography studio.
Great British Boutique
11.7 km
Discover unique gifts and quirky homeware in Cheltenham’s welcoming Great British Boutique, where friendly service meets charming finds.
Emporium
11.7 km
Discover unique gifts and a warm welcome at Emporium, Cheltenham’s charming family-run gift shop on Bath Road.
Vinegar Hill
12.1 km
Discover Cheltenham’s family-run boutique blending stylish homewares, fashion, and unique gifts in a warm, inviting setting since 1997.
Adana Collective Antiques
12.8 km
Discover timeless treasures and beautiful antiques at Adana Collective, a curated gem in Stroud’s vibrant Salmon Springs Trading Estate.
Moonflower Too
13.7 km
A vibrant gift shop in Stroud’s historic High Street, blending unique homewares with local charm and ethical brands.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Fountain Inn
0.1 km
Charming Grade II listed pub in Gloucester’s city centre offering real ales, hearty British fare, and a cozy historic atmosphere with garden and function rooms.
The Sword Inn Gloucester
0.1 km
Historic Gloucester pub blending tradition, community spirit, and lively sports in a welcoming city centre setting.
Elbien Soe Bar
0.2 km
Discover Gloucester’s vibrant grill and bar scene at Elbien Soe Bar, where flavorful dishes meet a lively, welcoming atmosphere 24/7.
The Drunken Duck
0.2 km
A vibrant Gloucester pub blending unique space, exceptional beers, and a welcoming atmosphere for all to enjoy.
The Abbey
0.2 km
A vibrant Gloucester bar famed for its bottomless brunch, friendly service, and lively social atmosphere in the city centre.
The Pelican Inn (Wye Valley)
0.2 km
Historic Gloucester pub famed for award-winning real ales, lively events, and a warm, authentic British atmosphere.
The Turks Head Inn
0.3 km
A welcoming traditional pub in Gloucester’s heart, famed for its excellent cask ales and friendly local atmosphere.
Deans Walk Inn
0.3 km
Experience Gloucester’s warmest welcome with local ales, hearty meals, and a lively atmosphere at Deans Walk Inn.
Café René
0.3 km
A lively Gloucester pub and restaurant blending historic charm, award-winning food, and vibrant live music in the city centre.
Our House Bar
0.4 km
A vibrant cocktail and wine bar in Gloucester Docks offering curated drinks and a welcoming atmosphere for memorable nights out.
The Heritage
0.5 km
A welcoming Gloucester bar blending rugby spirit with cozy charm and a diverse drink selection for locals and fans alike.
TANK
0.8 km
Discover Gloucester’s premier craft beer bar with a lively atmosphere, local brews, stonebaked pizzas, and a welcoming beer garden in the historic docks.
Brewhouse & Kitchen - Gloucester Quays
0.8 km
A vibrant gastropub and microbrewery at Gloucester Quays offering craft beers, hearty meals, and waterfront views in a lively, modern setting.
England's Glory
0.9 km
A traditional Gloucester pub offering hearty food, the best Guinness, lively events, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Devoted Deluxe - Mobile Bar Hire
0.9 km
Elegant mobile bar hire in Gloucester delivering bespoke cocktails and personalized service for every special occasion.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
- Historic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
