The Building

This section gives a few highlights of the building, the best way to really appreciate Worcester Cathedral, however, is to visit it.

The West End and Nave

This comprises of work spanning 800 years from the 11th century. The Nave is 54m long. A Victorian window shows the Garden of Eden. Keep an eye open for some famous monuments such as PM Stanley Baldwin (1867-1947) and the Geronitus window which commemorates Sir Edward Elgar and Sir Charles Hastings (founder of the British Medical Association)

The Tower

The tower stands at 62m and has 236 steps, it was completed in 1374 and is the 3rd tower to be built, the first fell down in 1175, the second was replaced by the current tower. It has the best view of the city. There are 16 Bells, although there were originally only 8 bells until 1863 when one of the bells was stolen (weighing in at 5 cwts, about 250Kgs). So much support was given that there was enough money to have a complete peal of 16 bells.

The Crypt

The Crypt is the largest remaining evidence of Wulfstan's cathedral. It is a place for quiet prayer and and shows the beautiful white washed Cotswald limestone used in the original structure.

The East End and Lady's chapel

Built around the tomb of King John. As you will notice this is where the choir sit. Standing at this end and looking back will give you the best feel for the scale and beauty of the cathedral. Look out for many fine carved stone from the 13th Century. The high altar here is the focal point of the entire cathedral.

The Cloisters, Garth and Chapter House

Where the monks would wander around for quiet reflection. The Chapter house with it's huge central column was the focal point of this and was where the monks would meet. Around the building are faint remnances of original 12th and 13th century painted decoration. The Cloister was a place of study and led to the sleeping quarters and their washing place. A gate from here led in to the garden (Garth) where there burials and a herb garden has been planted. In the south walk of the Cloisters is the entrance to the refectory (dining room)