Children can explore Hereford Cathedral’s Mappa Mundi & Chained Library Museum for free this summer holidays!

The Mappa Mundi & Chained Library Museum, which sits alongside the cathedral, houses some of the cathedral’s greatest treasures as well as special exhibitions curated by the library and archives team. The latest exhibition, Shaping Early Medieval Faith: The Hereford Gospels, celebrates the oldest manuscript in the cathedral’s collection and how it was created.

As well as viewing The Hereford Gospels, families can also see the Anglo-Saxon sword, which is on loan from Herefordshire Museums and Galleries, Herefordshire Council and learn how to write their name using the letters of the Hereford Gospels on our new magnetic wall.

Jennifer Dumbelton, Cathedral Librarian, said: “I am delighted that we will be welcoming children of all ages into the museum for free this summer. It’s always wonderful to hear children’s questions about the Mappa Mundi & Chained Library, which can be very inspiring to curious young minds!”

Marc Leppard, Chief Operating Officer, said: “We all know the challenge of finding, and budgeting, for activities to keep children entertained throughout the school holidays; offering free children’s entry to the museum is our small gesture to try and support families to have fun this summer. The main cathedral, as always, remains free to visit meaning that families can have a really affordable day out and discover the whole of the cathedral. We look forward to welcoming you!”

A selection of free family guides and trails are also available to pick up in both the main cathedral and the Mappa Mundi & Chained Library Museum to help children (and their grown-ups!) discover the hidden history of the cathedral. For families who plan on spending the whole day at the cathedral, the Cathedral Café will have child friendly lunches available to purchase as well as drinks, ice creams and cakes which can be enjoyed inside or in the Chapter House Garden.

Children under the age of sixteen can visit the Mappa Mundi & Chained Library Museum for free from Friday 26 June – Tuesday 1 September (Monday – Saturday, 10am – 5pm). Tickets are still required and children must be accompanied by a responsible adult throughout their visit.

Tickets can be purchased on the day or in advance from the cathedral website: www.herefordcathedral.org/mappa-mundi-and-chained-library-exhibition. Adult tickets cost £7.50 or £8.50 to include a Gift Aid donation.