Ringing Times for the period of July to September 2016
Bell Ringing
Friends’ Day 2020
19th September 2020 Friends’ Day is one of the most important days in the Friends’ calendar. We may not be able to gather together in the Precincts this year to celebrate our Cathedral but we can still link up online. read more...Welcome to Canterbury Cathedral
Welcome to the website of Canterbury Cathedral, Mother Church of the worldwide Anglican Communion and seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury. The Cathedral is both a holy place and part of a World Heritage Site. read more...
Employment
The Cathedral is a working, living church which maintains a tradition of welcome and worship that has been practised here for over 1,400 years. We employ more than 300 staff who are supported by more than 600+ dedicated volunteers. read more...
Picture This…
Picture This features images from a wealth of manuscripts, printed books and objects and provides a fascinating insight into the treasures of the Canterbury Cathedral Archives and Library. read more...
Music List
Music is an integral part of our worship and the Cathedral takes great pride in the music performed at its services. The fortnightly Music List gives details of the music performed at Cathedral services, as well as names of choirs, preachers and where the service will take place. The weekly Notice Sheets give details of the Sunday service, as well as congregational activities and events. read more...British Sign Language Video
At special times of the year (mostly Christmas, Easter and during the summer) there will be a BSL tour led by Cathedral guide Bridget Bree (NVQ3 BSL). At times, Evensong is held with BSL interpretation. read more...
Girls’ Choir Application Form
Please complete all sections of the form below. Girls will be expected to do the following at interview: Sing one accompanied piece of own choice Sing one unaccompanied piece of own choice Sight-read a given passage Undertake simple ear tests, including recognising intervals played on the piano and picking out notes from a chord. read more...
The Friends’ Calendar
The Friends have a busy events programme which includes day trips as well as events within The Precincts. From theatre outings to guided tours and regular talks, there is something for everyone to enjoy. read more...
The Ancestors Exhibition
The Ancestors exhibition in 2015 (now closed) showed a series of life-size figures representing the Ancestors of Christ, which date to the 12th and early 13th centuries. These beautiful examples of medieval stained glass were temporarily removed from the Cathedral's Great South Window, while conservation work was carried out on its crumbling stonework. read more...
1,400 Years of History
The origins of Canterbury Cathedral go back to 597AD when Augustine, sent by Pope Gregory the Great, arrived on the coast of Kent as a missionary. read more...
Holy Communion
Holy Communion (also known as the Eucharist, the Lord’s Supper or the Mass) is celebrated daily at the Cathedral. read more...Subscribe
Keep informed about public events and the latest news at Canterbury Cathedral by subscribing to our regular email newsletters. Email Address I confirm my subscription to the newsletter and understand that the email address provided will be held by the Cathedral and the email service company (dotmailer) to use for distributing this newsletter only. read more...
Public Events at Canterbury Cathedral
Here you will find details of our main public events. To see details of all events and services, check the Calendar View. read more...
Arts Award
Canterbury Cathedral is now recognised as an Arts Award supporter. read more...
Heritage
The Canterbury Journey will address the urgent restoration needs of several key areas of the Cathedral to conserve and safeguard this important part of our heritage. read more...
People
Throughout the restoration works, there will be opportunities for the community and visitors to learn about the conservation work and chart the progress of the project through a variety of ways including viewing spaces, visual displays, interpretation and online. read more...
The Canterbury Journey Timeline
See below for a timeline of the physical works that are happening in relation to The Canterbury Journey – please note times are subject to change and variance due to the needs of the Cathedral as a place of worship first and foremost and any archaeological finds/external factors beyond our control. read more...
Artist in Residence
Each year as part of The Canterbury Journey, the Cathedral will provide an annual Artist in Residence opportunity at the Cathedral for the duration of the project. Artist in Residence 2017-18 Our first appointee is artist, print maker and archivist, Dawn Cole, who will be working with the Learning & Participation team and Schools Department. read more...
Volunteer Opportunities
We are seeking outgoing and enthusiastic volunteers to join the Cathedral volunteer team to assist with some exciting and engaging projects. read more...
90th Anniversary Celebrations
The Friends are the oldest organisation of its kind in the UK and celebrated 90 years of commitment and fundraising in 2017. A number of exciting events took place to commemorate The Friends’ achievements and celebrate our community. read more...
Gargoyle Gallery
read more...
Privacy Notice
Canterbury Cathedral is committed to safeguarding and preserving the privacy of the individuals and organisations we deal with in line with the legislation set out under the UK Data Protection Act 2018 (DPA) and European General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Our objective is to be fair, open and transparent about the data we collect. read more...Graffiti Project
Volunteers working on the Graffiti Project are very happy to share what they have discovered so please do stop and talk them and find out more about the fascinating marks that they are finding. The volunteers are easily identifiable as they are wearing high visibility tabards with Grafiiti Project written on the back. read more...
The Art of the Lost: Conference 2019
27-29 November 2019 We are delighted to announce that tickets for Canterbury Cathedral’s conservation and collections conference, Art of the Lost: discussing the future of the past (27-29 November 2019) are now on sale. read more...Independent Safeguarding Audit
Commodore M J Atherton OBE MA FCMI FCILT RECEIVER GENERAL 8th April 2019 Safeguarding at Canterbury Cathedral The Church of England has commissioned an independent audit of cathedral arrangements for keeping people safe from harm and abuse. These mandatory audits follow those carried out at diocesan level over the last two years. read more...
New Organ Installed
The new Canterbury Cathedral Organ is now fully installed, with new pipes fitted on either side of the Quire set in the North and South Triforium spaces. The £4.2 million funding came from The Organ Project and donations from The Friends of Canterbury Cathedral. read more...Becket2020
Becket2020 read more...The Little Prince
Join the Dean as he reads the wonderful allegorical story by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, The Little Prince – a charming children’s tale but with profound adult depths that have never been as important as now in their themes. read more...The Ancestors
Find out more about the Ancestors Exhibition A selection of the Ancestors windows Jude Jose Jonan or Achim Nathan David Joseph Er Joanna Zorobabel Booz Josiah Unidentified David Ezechias Salmon Abraham Enoch Ragau Phalec Methuselah Jareth Thare Noah Lamech Abias Seth Salathiel Roboas Obed Naason Jospeh Jechonias Jesse Esrom Aran Aminadab read more...
Holy Week and Easter 2020
Easter is a great feast of music and liturgy when we enter into the story of the road to the cross and the joy of resurrection. read more...The Voyage of Saint Brendan
A reading by The Dean The Voyage of Saint Brendan, Journey to the Promised Land is the wonderful tale (from the translation by John J O’Meara), of one of the most famous and enduring stories of Western Christendom, the Navigatio Sancti Brendani Abbatis, written in Ireland perhaps as early as the year 800. read more...Travels with a Donkey in the Cévennes
A reading by The Dean Travels with a Donkey in the Cévennes is Robert Louis Stevenson’s story of his “pilgrimage”, made alone, with Modestine the donkey he bought to carry his luggage for the twelve day walk across valleys and mountains in the South of France in 1878. read more...Archive Colouring Sheets
One of the great treasurers in our Archives and Library is a book about animals called a ‘bestiary’. This lovely book was written in Latin and decorated over 700 years ago, all by hand. The book was never finished: some animals were never illustrated, and some of the illustrations were never coloured. read more...Julian of Norwich: a medieval take on lockdown and how to survive it
A short video series by Canon Missioner, The Revd Dr Emma Pennington In this 6-part series on the 14th-century English anchoress and mystic, Rev’d Dr Emma Pennington, who holds a doctorate in Julian of Norwich from Oxford University, reflects on the relevance of Julian and her writings for us today. read more...
A History of Canterbury Cathedral in 20 Documents
The Cathedral Archives and Library holds a rich collection of manuscripts, books and records which has been built up over the centuries since the cathedral’s foundation in the year 597. Alongside the office of the Archbishop of Canterbury, Canterbury Cathedral is the oldest institution in the UK, older than the English Crown. read more...
The Anglo-Saxon Cathedral: St Gregory’s ‘Dialogues’
Canterbury Cathedral’s story starts with a book. This is what is known as the Canterbury Gospels or the St Augustine Gospels, now owned by Corpus Christi College Cambridge. This extraordinary late 6th-century manuscript copy of the four Gospels is thought to have been brought by St Augustine of Canterbury, founder of our cathedral, on his mission to England. read more...
Cathedral Stories Podcast
We created this special podcast series during lockdown to give you a sense of what makes Canterbury Cathedral so special and to learn something of its unique and colourful history. read more...
The Medieval Cathedral: The ‘Domesday Monachorum’
Author: Cressida Williams, Head of Archives and Library Perhaps the most famous historic book in England is the Domesday Book, the written record of the land survey ordered by William the Conqueror which was completed in 1086. read more...
Henry II and St Thomas Becket: Canterbury City’s first charter
Author: Cressida Williams, Head of Archive and Library The murder of St Thomas Becket in his cathedral on 29 December 1170, and the cult of Becket which developed, shaped Canterbury Cathedral and its city for the centuries to come. read more...
Phased reopening
In line with revised Government guidance on places of worship, the Cathedral will reopen for personal prayer only from Monday 15th June 2020 during the hours below. read more...Just So Stories
Following some requests from people who had watched the morning service on Black Cat Day and the Dean’s reference to Rudyard Kipling’s Just So Story of The Cat Who Walked by Himself, we thought you might enjoy these fireside readings of Kipling’s animal tales: How the Alphabet was Made How the First Letter was Written read more...An Old-Fashioned Thanksgiving
On this Thanksgiving, particularly poignant this year as we give thanks for so much that we often take for granted but also with so many distanced from friends and family, we thought it might be nice to share with you a charming story by the wonderful Louisa May Alcott, ‘An Old-Fashioned Thanksgiving’. read more...The Machine Stops
“But humanity, in its desire for comfort, had over-reached itself. It had exploited the riches of nature too far. read more...The English Mystics: their relevance for us today
A short video series by Canon Missioner, The Revd Dr Emma Pennington Following on from the series Julian of Norwich: a medieval take on lockdown and how to survive it, this 6-part series focuses on the unique group of devotional writers at the end of the fourteenth century called The English Mystics. read more...Tree of the Day
As our online contribution to National Tree Week we thought it might be fun to bring to you a tree hero each day as well as an unusual arboreal word, a picture and a poem of a different native tree. read more...“Little Gidding”, by T. S. Eliot
I Midwinterspring is its own season Sempiternal though sodden towards sundown, Suspended in time, between pole and tropic. read more...Virtual Becket Pilgrimage
Join our clergy on this Virtual Becket Pilgrimage through Canterbury Cathedral as we prepare, week by week, for the 850th anniversary of Becket’s martyrdom on the 29th December 2020. read more...Wind in the Willows
Join the Dean for his fireside reading of Kenneth Grahame’s beloved classic, Wind in the Willows. Chapter 1: The Riverbank Chapter 2: The Open Road Chapter 3: The Wild Wood Chapter 4: Mr. Badger Chapter 5: Dulce Domum Chapter 6: Mr. read more...The Wreck of the Deutschland
By Gerard Manley Hopkins To the happy memory of five Franciscan Nuns, exiles by the Falk Laws, drowned between midnight and morning of Dec. read more...Christmas Carol Services
With in-person Christmas worship much reduced this year, we have produced virtual Carol services featuring readings and performances from our choirs. A Canterbury Celebration of Christmas: Favourite Carols and Readings for all the family Click here to download the Order of Service, including the words to the carols. read more...
The Canterbury Advent Calendar: Values of Life
Throughout Advent, the Cathedral clergy will be recording a new reflection each day focusing on a different value. Join us each evening to ‘open the door’ of the Cathedral Advent Calendar, and discover a new video. read more...
Support Canterbury Cathedral this Christmas
Ding Dong Merrily Online! Canterbury Cathedral’s Christmas Campaign Christmas is at the heart of Canterbury Cathedral’s calendar and we treasure the services and events that allow us to share the joy of the season. Sadly, Covid-19 restrictions mean that many of our services are not going to be practicable in the usual form this year. read more...The Cricket on the Hearth
Join the Dean for his fireside-reading of the Charles Dickens novella ‘The Cricket on the Hearth’. read more...Test 20Dec
read more...A Christmas Carol
Join Dean Robert and friend for part one of his fireside-reading of Charles Dickens’ classic tale A Christmas Carol. read more...
Christmas services of worship
We are committed to sharing our Christmas celebrations online this year, and streams of our services of worship are available to watch below. read more...12 Days of Christmas Carols
Enjoy performances by our choirs throughout the 12 Days of Christmas Yea Lord we greet thee (last verse of O Come all ye Faithful) 26th December: The Truth from Above (cf St Stephen) 27th December: Hodie Christus Natus Est 28th December: O Little One Sweet (cf Holy Innocents) 29th December: Adam lay y-bounden (cf Becket) read more...
Could you be Canterbury Cathedral’s next chorister?
The Cathedral’s world-famous Boys’ Choir is seeking talented youngsters to join its ranks. Boys in School Years 2 and 3 with a passion for singing are sought to join the choir in Year 4. read more...
General Service Times
View here details of our daily services. Many more services are held every year, details of which may be found on the What's On pages. read more...Current Vacancies
Please submit you completed application by clicking the vacancy description, then apply. read more...
Testimonials
The Friends are the Cathedral’s fan club. We are admirers of the building, its history and its community. We are part of the Cathedral and work together to cherish it forever, contributing financially, and directly, to many individual and vital projects. read more...
A Prayer Meditation for Personal Prayer
Download the Prayer Meditation Feel free to use whatever part of this meditation you find helpful, speaking the words silently in your heart, and pausing and adding your own reflection as you wish. How wondrous is this place! This is none other than the house of God, and this is the gate of heaven. read more...
Composers’ Competition
This project will commission, perform and record 14 new pieces. Each will re-imagine a preexisting work for saxophone, choir and organ, bringing a fresh perspective on our rich choral heritage to a new generation of listeners. Four of these works will be chosen by competition, which will be open to all and free to enter. read more...
Legacies
Our generation has a responsibility to ensure the traditions of choral music, lifelong learning and excellence in craft skills begun by our ancestors are continued here at Canterbury Cathedral now, and for the future. read more...
History of The Friends
The Friends of Canterbury Cathedral was founded in 1927 by the distinguished scholar and poet Dean George Allen Kennedy Bell who later became Bishop of Chichester. The organization was the first of its kind in the world. read more...
Who we are
Canterbury Cathedral Trust is an independent charity established in 1974 to raise income in support of the Cathedral’s conservation, craftsmanship, music and education. read more...
Giving to The Friends
Please donate to the Friends and help us continue our work in preserving the Cathedral for generations to come. read more...
Acting Director of Music
David Newsholme is currently Acting Director of Music at Canterbury Cathedral, where he is responsible for training the Cathedral’s choirs, and for all other musical aspects of the Cathedral’s work. read more...
Filming and Photography
The Cathedral receives a large number of requests for filming and photography and we will try and accommodate as many of these requests as possible. Prior to making a request we would ask that you read these guidelines. read more...
Acting Assistant Organist
Adrian Bawtree was appointed Second Assistant Organist in September 2015. He is currently the Cathedral's Acting Assistant Organist. read more...
Acting Second Assistant Organist
Jamie Rogers is an Organist, Pianist and Conductor based in Kent and London. He enjoys a varied musical career, and is an established jazz pianist, as well as a a professional church musician. He is currently the Acting Second Assistant Organist at Canterbury Cathedral. read more...
Join The Friends
Becoming a Friend is not only about restoring a beautiful old building, it’s about establishing a community and forming lasting relationships. read more...
Our Services Explained
The Cathedral is first and foremost a working, living church and place of worship. Daily worship lies at the heart of Cathedral life and every day follows a rhythm of morning and evening prayer and daily Eucharist. read more...
Lay Clerks
The Cathedral Choir includes twelve Lay Clerks (adult singers), who sing the alto, tenor and bass parts. These experienced professionals generally perform at seven services each week; most fulfil their duties at the Cathedral alongside parallel careers in a variety of sectors. read more...
Adopt a Stop!
The Cathedral’s organ sits at the heart of our music, supporting all who sing here and inspiring all who journey here. This beautiful instrument has reached the end of its performing life, placing impossible restrictions upon our music team. From 2020, the refurbished instrument will have a new, relocated console, with four manuals and 89 stops giving voice to over 6,000 pipes. The stops (ranks of pipes) allow... read more...
Canterbury Cathedral and Magna Carta: The ‘Pine Magna Carta’
Author: Cressida Williams, Head of Archives and Library One of the great milestones of English medieval history is the agreement by King John to Magna Carta in 1215, following the dispute between him and his barons. read more...
The Canterbury Cathedral Shop
Christmas is looking a little different this year, but you can still visit the Canterbury Cathedral Shop in-person and online for your seasonal shopping! Our exclusive Canterbury Cathedral 2020 Christmas cards are available in multipacks of 10 for £5.00, along with many more festive finds. read more...Lent, Life, and Lockdown at Canterbury
Online talks with Q&A – Tuesdays in Lent (19.30 UK Time) The last year has been a deeply challenging time for each one of us as individuals and for our society as a whole. read more...
Leaving a Gift in Your Will
Legacies of all sizes are a valuable source of funds for us and there are many ways your selfless and long-lasting gift will help and support our work. In leaving a gift in your Will to Canterbury Cathedral, you pledge your support to this symbol of human achievement – contributing to the eternal legacy of this great place. read more...
Girl Choristers
The Girls’ Choir consists of 25 girls aged between 12 and 18, from a variety of local schools. They sing at one service each weekend with the men of the Cathedral Choir, and perform at special occasions including Easter Day and Christmas Day. They maintain an active concert and recording profile. read more...
US Friends (FOCCUS)
Friends in the US may like to join ‘The Friends of Canterbury Cathedral in the United States’ (FOCCUS) organization which offers Americans an opportunity to play a creative role through discussion, prayer, study, pilgrimage and practical support in both conservation and the facilitating of scholarships to allow students from across the world to study in Canterbury. read more...
Listen to our Sermons
Hear sermons preached at the Cathedral. read more...
Monastic Life in the medieval cathedral: Cawston’s register
Author: Cressida Williams, Head of Archives and Library Despite some losses from the collection over the centuries, some items removed by collectors, some destroyed at the Reformation, some lost in the Audit House fire of 1670, the archive of the medieval cathedral priory remains very strong. read more...
What Do The Friends Do?
The Friends are a group of like-minded people who wish to become involved in the community and life of Canterbury Cathedral. The Friends provide a channel for individuals to show their support by joining in with activities and with direct giving. read more...
Publications – Past and Present
Download here our newsletters and fundraising updates. read more...
Boy Choristers
The 25 boy choristers of Canterbury Cathedral are aged between eight and 13. They generally sing at six services each week, frequently singing alongside the Lay Clerks (adult singers) of the Choir. read more...
Canterbury Pilgrimage in the later Middle Ages: William Brewyn’s ‘guidebook’
Author: Cressida Williams, Head of Archives and Library Canterbury Cathedral has been shaped by being the earliest cathedral foundation in England and by being the seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury, the senior bishop of the Church of England. It has also been shaped by pilgrimage. read more...
Legacy
Take a look behind the scenes at Canterbury Cathedral, with our short film which demonstrates why the Cathedral will always need financial support. read more...
The later medieval cathedral: The building of Bell Harry
Author: Cressida Williams, Head of Archives and Library Canterbury Cathedral is a complex building which has developed over the centuries. The earliest parts of the standing structure date from Norman times; the latest is the north-west tower, which was built in the 1830s to replace an unstable Norman structure. read more...
The Reformation: The Endowment Charter of Henry VIII
Author: Cressida Williams, Head of Archives and Library The English Reformation of Henry VIII and the severing of links with the Roman Catholic Church ended monastic life at Canterbury and across the country. The monastery of Canterbury Christ Church was dissolved in 1540, with the prior, Thomas Goldwell, and 28 monks given pensions and dismissed. read more...
Courses
The Canterbury Scholars' programme provides opportunities for Anglican / Episcopalian Christians from around the Anglican Communion to pray, study and live together at the International Study Centre, Canterbury Cathedral. read more...
Bishops
Newly-appointed bishops come from all corners of the Anglican Communion to share their experiences in the company of others. The conference aims to investigate the diverse challenges faced by those in the early years of their Episcopal ministry. read more...
Worship & Music
For more than 1400 years God has been worshipped in Canterbury Cathedral. With its roots in the Benedictine tradition, the ongoing daily pattern of morning and evening prayer and Eucharist (Holy Communion) continues the prayers and praises of countless generations. read more...
General Information
The Cathedral welcomes nearly a million visitors a year and offers a wide range of facilities. View opening times, entry charges, details of guided tours, audio tours and other visitor facilities and travelling advice. read more...
Cathedral History
The Cathedral is often described as 'England in stone' as its history is intrinsically linked to England's history. From Archbishop Langton's role in the Magna Carta negotiations to the power struggle between King Henry II and Archbishop Thomas Becket, Canterbury Cathedral's history is as rich as it comes. read more...
School Visits
Every year, we welcome more than 100,000 primary and secondary pupils from all over the world and our dedicated Schools Department offers a wide range of facilities to visiting schools, from guided tours and costumed trails to hands-on sessions in the project room. read more...
Legal
Legal Notices, Terms & Conditions and information about access, liability, licence, jurisdiction, privacy statement and use of cookies. read more...
Cathedral Map
The Cathedral map shows the main areas of the Cathedral. The visitor route takes visitors through the Nave, Martyrdom, down into the Crypt and up through the Crossing into the Quire and Trinity Chapel. For disabled access, please see the Access Information page. read more...
Archbishop of Canterbury
The Archbishop of Canterbury is the senior bishop and principal leader of the Church of England, the symbolic head of the worldwide Anglican Communion and the diocesan bishop of the Diocese of Canterbury. read more...
Visiting the Archives & Library
The Archives and Library of Canterbury Cathedral welcome all researchers with interests in our collections. View opening hours and details of available services here. read more...
Anglo-Saxon Canterbury
With the collapse of Roman rule and the invasions of Angles, Saxons and Jutes in the fifth century, the old capital of the Roman province of Cantium fell into ruins. It was revived in 597, when Augustine, leader of a band of missionaries, established his throne (in Latin “cathedra”) in a derelict Roman church within the old city. read more...
Organising Your Visit
Contact the Schools Department as soon as possible to make an initial enquiry and to discuss dates and times, learning objectives and costs for your visit. Staff will be pleased to advise on most suitable facilities and provide supporting material for your visit. read more...
Opening Times & Entry Charges
The Cathedral is very much part of the local community. It is used regularly for local, regional and/or national services and events. Therefore at times some or all of it may be closed for general visiting. read more...
Group Facilities
Groups may book an ‘entrance only’ or any of the additional facilities, such as private guided tours, audio-tours, audio visual presentations, lectures or ‘behind-the-scenes’ tours. Pre-booked groups benefit from reduced group rates. read more...Bellringing Times
Canterbury Cathedral Bell Ringing Times read more...
Featured Objects
These articles feature objects with a particular relevance to local, national or international events. read more...
Sung Eucharist
The Sung Eucharist is a celebration of Holy Communion with beautiful music. The worshipping community of the Cathedral, visitors and pilgrims come together to celebrate all that Jesus has done and continues to do for us. read more...Inside the Front Cover
An occasional blog about the work being undertaken in one of our specialist departments. read more...
Student Support
The Cathedral works in partnership with colleges and universities to offer a range of opportunities to enhance the student learning experience including supporting course work, professional development, work placement and volunteering. read more...
Complaints
It is the aim of the Cathedral to address and resolve complaints informally and as soon as possible after any issue has arisen. If you would like to tell us about anything concerning you please read our complaints procedure. read more...
The reign of Elizabeth I: The Queen’s visit to Canterbury in 1573
Poster image reproduced with permission from the National Railway Museum/Science & Society Picture Library Author: Cressida Williams, Head of Archives and Library The long reign of Henry VIII’s second daughter Elizabeth brought some stability to the country and indeed the Cathedral. read more...
The Civil War: The Bargrave Travel Diary
Author: Cressida Williams, Head of Archives and Library Elizabeth I was the last of the Tudor monarchs; she was succeeded by her cousin, James I, the first of the Stuart dynasty. read more...
Seminarians/New Clergy
A conference for Seminarians and Clergy in the early years of their ministry, focusing on the rich traditions of cultures and contexts of mission and ministry in the Anglican Communion. read more...
Archives & Library
The Archives & Library holds an impressive collection of manuscripts, historic records, photographs, maps and printed books dating back to the late 8th century. These make up an extraordinarily rich resource. read more...
Gender Pay Gap
Gender pay reporting legislation requires employers with 250 or more employees to publish statutory calculations every year showing how large the pay gap is between their male and female employees. Cathedral data, collected on the same date each year, 5th April, may be viewed here. read more...
The Restoration: Lancelot Pease organ case design
Author: Cressida Williams, Head of Archives and Library The iconoclasm and vandalism which took place in 1642 during the Civil War left the cathedral buildings in a devastated state and in need of significant attention and expenditure. Stained glass windows had been broken, roofs damaged, lead removed and furniture and furnishings destroyed. read more...
Environmental and Resources Policy
How the Cathedral community is working to help protect the environment. read more...
Cathedral music in the early modern period: choir partbooks
Music has been central to the life of Canterbury Cathedral since its foundation. The medieval monks of the cathedral priory sang during the daily ‘offices’ as well as during Mass. A choir of boys from the monastic school was formed in 1438 for singing in the Lady Chapel. read more...
The Cathedral as landowner: the Vauxhall map
Author: Cressida Williams, Head of Archives and Library As recorded in the late 11th-century ‘Domesday Monachorum’ , the cathedral held estates from Anglo-Saxon times. read more...
Faculty
Faculty members come from across the Anglican Communion to share their knowledge and experience and learn from each other. read more...
The 18th century: Samuel Grimm watercolour
Author: Cressida Williams, Head of Archives and Library The 18th century saw the development of tourism to Canterbury and its cathedral. Travel by the well-to-do was made easier by improved road networks; Canterbury was conveniently situated on the route between London and Dover, and near other attractions such as horse-racing each summer on Barham Downs. read more...
Historic Collections
The Cathedral houses wonderful collections of silver, textiles, paintings and much more. Some of these can be seen on display in the buildings; other items are held in the Archives and Library. The Canterbury Journey project aims to open us access to the collections in new and exciting ways. read more...
What we hold
The Archive and Library hold a number of fascinating collections, both those that belong and trace the history of the Cathedral and those held on behalf of other organisations read more...
Today’s Prayer
Prayers have been said at Canterbury Cathedral for more than 1,400 years and millions of people of every age pray every day. Wherever you are, whether you are a child, young person or an adult, please join us in our daily prayer. read more...
Language Schools
Canterbury Cathedral is often described as England in stone, and, as such, is ideal for foreign students as students will learn about the Cathedral's rich history, as well as improve their language skills with our EFL questionnaire and other facilities. read more...
The Victorian Cathedral Buildings: George Austin Jr photographs
Prints and drawings of the cathedral proliferated in the 19th century; however, it is the advent of photography which provides accurate evidence for the appearance and state of repair of the cathedral and precincts buildings in Victorian times. read more...
Victorian Archbishops: Archbishop Frederick Temple’s welcome scroll
While the cathedral was a popular visitor destination in the 18th century, overall Canterbury remained a provincial city. The Archbishops of Canterbury spent little time in their cathedral, remaining mostly in Lambeth Palace, just over the Thames from the Houses of Parliament, more convenient for affairs of state. read more...
Loans
Canterbury Cathedral is the custodian of a very wide range of collections, reflecting the Cathedral’s long history and complementing the built heritage. These include; the written collections of the Archives and Library (including manuscripts, prints, drawings and rare books), vestments, silver, stained glass, carved stone and other historic, religious and secular artefacts. read more...
The 20th-century Cathedral and its Friends: The Cloister Book of Arms
Despite the fund-raising efforts of Dean Frederic Farrar at the end of the 19th century, much work on the building remained to be done. This was given great momentum by the formation of the Friends of Canterbury Cathedral in 1927, under Dean George Bell. read more...
The Cathedral and World War II: The bombing of the Library
The soaring tower of Bell Harry is a wonderful sight as one approaches Canterbury. Some 250 feet in height, it can be seen for miles outside the city. The tower’s bell, called ‘Harry’ after Henry of Eastry, the prior between 1285 and 1331, brought comfort during the COVID-19 outbreak. read more...
Events at the Cathedral in the 20th century: The Cathedral Visitors Book
Author: Cressida Williams, Head of Archives and Library Over the centuries, the Cathedral has touched the lives of millions of people. It has left its mark in their memories; many people have left their mark here. read more...
Visiting the Cathedral
Pilgrims and visitors have made their way to Canterbury Cathedral since the Middle Ages. It remains one of the most visited places in the country, and, just as importantly, a working, living church and community. Visitors have always been made welcome in the ancient tradition of Benedictine hospitality and we continue this tradition today. read more...
Group Visits
We offer a wide range of facilities to visiting groups, from guided tours to accommodation, group hospitality and 'behind the scenes' tours to our Archives & Library and conservation workshops, read more...
Stained Glass
Canterbury Cathedral contains over 1,200 square metres of stained glass depicting inspirational stories of men and women, including one of England’s largest collections of early medieval stained glass. read more...
Calendar View
The calendar contains times and locations of all events at the Cathedral including daily services, public events and services, as well as private services, graduation ceremonies, weddings and funerals. read more...
Volunteers
The Cathedral relies heavily on its team of volunteers to provide a warm Ministry of Welcome to its many worshippers and visitors. Volunteering at the Cathedral can be extremely rewarding, whether you contribute as a Flower Arranger, 'Holy Duster', Bellringer, Steward, Sunday Club Assistant or Cathedral Guide / Welcomer / Chaplain. read more...
Cathedral Council
The Council represents the Cathedral community as well as the wider local and regional community. Its members are drawn from a wide variety of organisations. Its duty is to further and support the work of the Cathedral Church in spiritual, pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical areas. read more...Subscribe for Job Alerts
Enter your email address for regular updates on job vacancies at Canterbury Cathedral. read more...
Magna Carta
Thirteenth century Archbishop of Canterbury, Stephen Langton played a leading role in the negotiations preceding Magna Carta - the charter of liberties sealed by King John in 1215. read more...
Primary School Visits
We offer a range of Key Stage 1 & 2 tailored visits on subjects such as Religious Education, History and Art & Design. read more...
Conservation
The Cathedral employs a large number of specialists, from stonemasons - 20! - to stained glass conservators, plumbers, carpenters and other conservators, who all work with huge dedication and expertise to ensure we and future generations may enjoy this very special building and its precious collections. read more...
Further & Higher Education
The Cathedral is a rich resource for students in subjects such as architecture, conservation, literature, music and of course religion. Staff will be pleased to discuss special requirements and discuss available facilities and resources. read more...
Visitor Facilities
The Cathedral offers a wide range of facilities to ensure that each visitor may enjoy its rich history and stunning architecture. read more...
Educational Groups
From primary and secondary school groups to language schools and university students, the Cathedral is a wonderful resource and we offer tailored facilities for all. read more...
Collections Revealed
Collections Revealed highlights particular items from the Cathedral’s fantastic and varied collections which tell interesting stories or hidden pasts. read more...
Morning Prayers / Matins
Morning Prayer is a service of prayer and praise to begin the day. A simple, said service which lasts approximately 20 minutes and is at 07.30 hrs Monday to Friday and at 09.30 hrs on Saturday, Sunday, Bank Holidays and on certain other days during the year. read more...
Academic Access
The Cathedral aims to support academic and specialist research, creative practice, projects and collaborations which in turn supports our objectives to reach new and diverse audiences. We welcome projects which help increase our knowledge of the Cathedral, its heritage and collections, as well as creating outcomes for wider learning, public engagement and participation. read more...
Training & Courses
The Cathedral provides training through specialist CPD, professional skills development, internships, apprenticeships, work placements and volunteering. All opportunities are advertised on the Employment page. read more...
Canterbury Cathedral in the 21st Century: Digital Archives
Author: Cressida Williams, Head of Archives and Library 2020 should have been a landmark year for Canterbury, with events to mark the major anniversaries of St Thomas Becket. read more...
Our Top Ten
We could have made this into ‘Our Top 100’ as the Cathedral and grounds are huge and there is so much to see and enjoy. However, if you have limited time, here are some of the places which we think are particularly beautiful or have played a special part in the Cathedral’s history. read more...
Did you know?
There is so much to see, learn and enjoy, that you will need days to explore it all. Here are some well-known and lesser-known facts about Canterbury Cathedral. read more...
Catalogues and Newsletters
Here are links to our catalogues and to the image database where the images of the Cathedral and its collections are held read more...
Video Footage
Using a ‘flying camera’, local production company Eagle Video has produced stunning footage of historic Canterbury and the Cathedral. read more...
Virtual Tour
Our virtual tour will give you a glance of Canterbury Cathedral's stunning architecture, beautiful early medieval stained glass, soaring arches and fan vaulted ceilings. read more...
Learning
Originating from a Benedictine foundation, Canterbury Cathedral has been a seat of learning since the Middle Ages. It continues to inspire young and old and we offer a wide range of formal and informal learning programmes. read more...
Stone Conservation
We employ 20 stonemasons including six apprentices who work with great dedication, expertise and sensitivity to the spirit of the building. Their aim is to slow down the process of decay, and to replace only those parts that have lost the battle for survival. read more...
Anglican Conferences
The Cathedral offers regular courses for Anglican bishops, seminarians and the newly ordained from all over the world. These courses offer a unique opportunity for Anglicans to meet, pray and study while sharing the spiritual riches of their Mother Church. read more...
College of Canons
The College of Canons is composed of Honorary, Lay and Provincial Canons appointed by the Archbishop and it supports the life of the Cathedral in many different ways. read more...
Secondary School Visits
Discover Canterbury Cathedral on one of our curriculum linked Secondary visits. Choose from a wide range of set topics or contact the School Department to arrange a bespoke visit tailored to your particular requirements. read more...
William Shakespeare
A second folio of Shakespeare's works belongs to Canterbury Cathedral and went on special display in April 2016 to mark the 400th anniversary of the playwright’s death. read more...
Upcoming Closures
The Cathedral plays an active role in the community and it, or parts of it, regularly close for services or special events. Therefore, always check opening times before visiting. read more...Unsubscribe from our Newsletter
Unsubscribe from ALL Cathedral mailing lists EXCEPT for job alerts. We are sorry to hear you no longer wish to keep informed of the latest news and events at Canterbury Cathedral. read more...
The Canterbury Journey
The Canterbury Journey is a major project being delivered over five years and it continues to play a significant role in the Cathedral’s life until its current end date of October 2021. The total project cost is £24.7 million. read more...
Community Engagement
The Cathedral’s Learning and Participation team reaches out to the local and wider communities by working with a variety of community partners, organisations and groups, as well as attending festivals and events across East Kent. read more...
Digitised Archives and Library Content
This is a listing of resources which provide access to digitized images from the collections. Please click here for catalogues. In-house resources For images from our collections, presented by item reference number, see our Image Database. Please note that this system is due to change. Some entries on our CALM online catalogue include images. read more...
Hospitality & Accommodation
First class hotel accommodation, hospitality and conference facilities are available in the Cathedral Lodge, located in the grounds of Canterbury Cathedral. The Cathedral Lodge is a unique and contemporary hotel and conference venue in the heart of the city of Canterbury. read more...
Learning for All
Our Learning for All programme includes accessible learning for all ages and abilities and includes a range of activities inspired by the Cathedral, traditional crafts and creative interpretation. These include workshops, short courses, master classes and demonstrations. read more...
Conference & Meeting Facilities
Offering an impressive 250 seat Auditorium with in-built audio-visual facilities, the conference centre at Canterbury Cathedral Lodge also houses function rooms that can cater for anything from a small meeting to a large delegate conference. Meeting delegates are promised a truly memorable event in an inspirational environment. read more...
Pilgrimage
Canterbury Cathedral has a tradition of visitor welcome that reaches back to the days of medieval pilgrimage. Today, we continue this tradition as we welcome pilgrims who are travelling to / from Rome, Santiago de Compostela or following the Pilgrims' Way from Winchester. read more...What’s On At Canterbury Cathedral
The Cathedral plays an active role in the community and is regularly used for community and/or public events, from university degree ceremonies to concerts and local schools’ commemoration Services. read more...
News & Newsletters
Read the latest news from Canterbury Cathedral and keep up-to-date with events and Cathedral community. read more...
Cathedral Musicians
Music is an integral part of our worship and the Cathedral takes great pride in the music performed at its Services. Our world renowned Choir is made up of 12 lay clerks (professional singers) 25 choristers, boys between 8 and 13 years old and a Girls’ Choir formed in 2014 with 24 members aged between 12 and 18. read more...
The Canterbury Journey
The Cathedral has been working with the community and stakeholders to put together a five year programme of learning and community engagement as part of The Canterbury Journey, a £25 million project funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund and other generous sponsors. read more...
World War I
To commemorate the centenary of the Great War, there is an ongoing project to research collections held in the Cathedral Archives pertaining to the period. read more...
Choral Evensong
As the day begins with Morning Prayer, so the day ends with an evening service of prayer and praise, using the traditional language of the Book of Common Prayer. This is normally sung by the Cathedral Choir and the service is at 17.30 hrs Monday to Friday and 15.15hrs on Saturdays and Sundays. The service lasts about 40 minutes. read more...
Image Database
Cathedral Image Database Our Image Database contains images related to the Cathedral and some of its collections and treasures. You may also contact our Press Office to request images. read more...
Nave and West Towers
As part of The Canterbury Journey project, the western end of the Cathedral is being restored and enhanced with repairs to the West Towers and Nave roof. We are currently erecting a safety deck in the Nave, which should be in place by the end of March 2017. read more...
Conferences & Study Days
As part of The Canterbury Journey project, the Cathedral holds two conferences – a biennial Conservation and Collections Conference in November, and an annual Young Futures Conference, also in November. In 2017 the focus was on The Black Prince. read more...
Access Information
We aim to provide a warm welcome and a first class visitor experience to all visitors and worshippers. You may download our detailed Access Statement or Facilities for Visitors with Disabilities leaflet before visiting or ask staff for assistance on arrival. read more...
Cathedral Shop
The Canterbury Cathedral Shop sells replica historical artefacts and books, guide books, some religious books, and CDs made by our world-famous choir. We are a large gift shop in the heart of the city of Canterbury with an impressive range of high quality gifts, mostly British, and our own exclusive award winning designs. read more...
Heritage
The Cathedral's history goes back to 597AD when St Augustine, sent by Pope Gregory the Great, arrived as a missionary. In 1170, Archbishop Thomas Becket was murdered in the Cathedral and ever since, the Cathedral has attracted thousands of pilgrims. read more...
Chapter Members
The Chapter of Canterbury are responsible for all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Cathedral. Chapter comprises the Dean, the Residentiary Canons, the Receiver General and four additional persons appointed by the Archbishop. read more...
Overseas Schools
We welcome thousands of overseas school groups to the Cathedral and offer a wide range of facilities and supporting material in several languages. read more...Child and Adult Safeguarding
Every day hundreds of children enter the Precincts of Canterbury Cathedral and become part of our community. Some of the children are permanent members of the Foundation of Canterbury Cathedral and others may just visit once in their childhood, but to every child we have a duty of care and responsibility which is an extremely serious trust. read more...
FAQ
Our staff in the Schools' Department are here to help, but we hope this information will help you to prepare your visit. read more...
Book, Paper and Object Conservation
The Cathedral Archives houses a paper conservation studio, which is responsible for the restoration and protection of our books, manuscripts and charters. read more...
Canterbury
“Canterbury’s past is as rich as it comes” says the latest Lonely Planet guide to Britain. Its world-famous cathedral city was one of medieval Europe’s great places of pilgrimage and learning. read more...
Get Involved
Become part of the Cathedral community by joining the 'Friends of Canterbury Cathedral', offering your services as a volunteer or helping with our fundraising activities. read more...
Maps & Directions
Canterbury's location near London, channel ports and airports makes it an easy destination for anyone travelling by car, coach, train, air or sea. The Cathedral is within easy walking distance of Canterbury East or West stations. read more...
Visiting Choirs
We offer visiting choirs several opportunities to sing at Canterbury Cathedral, Mother Church of the Anglican Communion and one of the great holy places of Christendom. read more...
Credits
The who, what and why of how this website was developed. read more...
Senior Positions
Find out who is responsible for the departments involved in the day-to-day running of Canterbury Cathedral, welcoming our many visitors and maintaining it for future generations to enjoy. read more...
Kent, the Garden of England
Kent, also known as the Garden of England is an idyllic, quintessentially English must-see destination to explore and discover. Located just outside of London, it is England's oldest and most beautiful county. read more...
Library corridor roof repaired
Work to repair and further conserve a 12th century area of Canterbury Cathedral was completed in December 2017. The Cathedral received a £250,000 grant to repair the roof of the first-floor Library Corridor on the north side of the building near the Water Tower. read more...
Archbishop of Canterbury
The Most Revd and Rt Hon Justin Welby was enthroned at Canterbury Cathedral on 21 March 2013 as the 105th Archbishop of Canterbury. He is the senior bishop and principal leader of the Church of England, the symbolic head of the worldwide Anglican Communion and the diocesan bishop of the Diocese of Canterbury. read more...
Anglican Communion
Canterbury Cathedral is the Mother Church of the worldwide Anglican Communion, a community of 38 autonomous national and regional Churches plus six Extra Provincial Churches and Dioceses, all of which are in Communion - in a reciprocal relationship - with the Archbishop of Canterbury, who is the Communion's spiritual head. read more...
Who Does What?
The Cathedral employs some 300 staff and relies on 600+ volunteers to carry out its mission. Details of the organisation may be found here. read more...
Sitemap
Please contact the Cathedral Webmaster for technical problems or the PR Department for content suggestions. read more...
Downloads
To prepare for your visit, you may like to download risk assessments, teacher information and pupil questionnaires in several languages read more...
Current and Recent Projects
Conservation work on the Cathedral is never ending, and our highly skilled crafts and trades(wo)men and apprentices. The Cathedral employs 20 stonemasons, including 6 apprentices, 8 stained glass conservators, specialist carpenters, plumbers and other conservators. read more...
Support Us
Canterbury Cathedral needs your help. Like everyone, we have been devastated by the Coronavirus pandemic. We normally welcome a million visitors each year, most of whom pay an entrance fee and/or make a donation during their visit. Over the past year, we have lost most of that income – millions of pounds. read more...
Canterbury Cathedral Trust
The Cathedral Trust is responsible for raising much-needed funds to keep the Cathedral running, which costs £20,000 each day. The Cathedral receives no regular income from the Government or Church of England towards its restoration and conservation. We are therefore reliant on the generous support of our worshippers, visitors, partners and supporters, all of whom help to safeguard the Cathedral for future generations. read more...
The Friends of Canterbury Cathedral
The Friends are the Cathedral's fan club. Admirers of the building, its history and its community, Friends are a part of the Cathedral and work together to preserve it for ever, contributing to many individual and vital projects. read more...
Contact Us
For any information or queries, please contact us, enquiries@canterbury-cathedral.org or tel. +44 (0) 1227 762862. read more...
E-newsletter
For our regular e-newsletter, subscribe here. read more...
Warriors’ Chapel
The chapel was cleaned after dust fell on the tombs, windows and regimental colours during work on the nearby south window. read more...
North West Transept
The North West Transept is one of the hardest-to-reach areas in urgent need of restoration. It is historically important as it is one of the oldest parts of the Cathedral and the place where Archbishop Thomas Becket was murdered in 1170. read more...
Booking Forms
To help avoid disappointment or wasted time, please contact the Schools Department to discuss availability before submitting any booking form. read more...
About
Canterbury Cathedral is the Mother Church of the worldwide Anglican Communion, seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury, part of the Canterbury World Heritage Site and destination for more than a million visitors and pilgrims every year. read more...
Great South Window
Work to rebuild the Great South Window was completed and scaffolding removed in November 2016. read more...
French Church
In 1685, 200,000 French Protestants fled to England to escape persecution in Catholic France. Many settled in Canterbury where there was already a French community and a church. Today, their descendants still worship, in French, every Sunday at 15.00 hrs in the Huguenot Chapel in the Cathedral’s Crypt. All are welcome. read more...
Cathedral Constables
The Cathedral’s Constabulary Supt. Jim Morley Head Constable James Morley MSyl MInstLM, is the Head Constable of the Cathedral Constabulary at Canterbury. Jim is the Fire and Security lead at Canterbury Cathedral and sits on the Safeguarding Committee. read more...
Sunday Club
Children aged between 0-13 are invited to join Canterbury Cathedral’s Sunday Club. Parents/carers should stay with children who are under school age. The club is held in the Water Tower every Sunday in term time during the 11 o'clock Eucharist. read more...
Bell Ringing
Canterbury Cathedral has more than 20 bells: one at the top of Bell Harry tower; five in the North West tower for striking the quarters; Great Dunstan – the Cathedral’s largest bell, which strikes the hour and rings for some services; and, in the South West tower, there are 14 further bells hung for change ringing. read more...
World War I research at the Cathedral Archives
I have been fortunate to be part of the ongoing project to research collections held in the Cathedral Archives for the commemoration of the centenary of the Great War. I commenced assisting with the project in October 2013. read more...
The Canterbury War Memorial
In 1919, a committee was formed for establishing a memorial to commemorate the men of Canterbury who fell in the Great War. The Dean and the Lord Mayor of Canterbury for the time being would be ex officio President and Chairman of the committee respectively. read more...Letters from the Front
I am always amazed by how fate sometimes lends a hand or points us in a direction that we’d never even considered. That happened to me recently. Someone told me the Receiver-General had been given a list of all the World War I memorials within the Cathedral and its Precincts. read more...
WWI through the eyes of a Vicar of St George’s Deal
Introduction The last 100 years have given historians ample opportunity to reflect on the First World War which began in the late summer of 1914. But how was the conflict perceived by people at the time? Parish magazines, an often under-used historical resource, are the pamphlets containing the news and events of local communities. read more...
The diary of Frederic Maxted
Frederic Sanders Maxted was born in 1878 at Ramsgate and was educated at Brighton, Hove and Sussex Grammar School, leaving in 1894. Being of an old yeoman family, he became a farmer but he also (somewhat against his father’s wishes) volunteered for the Royal East Kent Yeomanry, a predecessor of the modern Territorial Army. read more...
Nelson Johnson Propeller
Nelson King Johnson was born in Canterbury in 1892 and was educated at the Simon Langton Grammar School. In 1913, he graduated with a BSc from the Royal College of Science in South Kensington. He initially attempted to become an astronomer at Sidmouth but war intervened and in 1915 he joined the Royal Flying Corps. read more...
The Canterbury and District War Work Depot
Even in the first months of the Great War, it had become apparent that the distribution of aid to wounded soldiers or prisoners-of-war, both by voluntary organisations and through official channels, was disorganised and inconsistent, with too much of certain items and too little of others being dispatched irregularly to too few soldiers or to read more...
Cricket and the Canterbury stage in August 1914
The Old Stagers have been in existence, and have performed plays exclusively in Canterbury, since 1842. read more...Send a Prayer
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HMS Kent
HMS Kent, an armoured cruiser, took part in the Battle of the Falklands on 8th December 1914 where she sank the German light cruiser SMS Nürnberg. During the battle she was hit by 38 shells, causing serious damage and killing eight men. Despite this, she attempted to rescue men from the sinking Nürnberg. read more...