Hereford Cathedral is built on a place of worship used since Saxon times and contains some of the finest examples of art and architecture from Norman times to the present day. It is the birthplace of the world renowned Three Choirs Festival and houses international treasures including the famous Mappa Mundi and the largest surviving medieval chained library.

The elegantly restored Cathedral Close sits at the heart of our historic city and diocese, with new social spaces, artworks and interpretation for you and your visitors to enjoy.

Cathedral tours

Duration: 60–90 minutes
Our cathedral tours explore the rich history and treasures of Hereford Cathedral from its Saxon origins to the present day and tours can be tailored to reflect the specific interests of your group. These can include:

• Architectural interests
• Art in the cathedral
• Current conservation projects
• Hereford’s musical tradition
• Magna Carta in the Marches
• Saints and Sinners
• Stained Glass

Why not combine your tour with a visit to the Mappa Mundi and Chained Library, rounding off your visit with Choral Evensong sung by the our world renowned cathedral choir, in a musical tradition which dates back to the 13th century.

Mappa Mundi and Chained Library

Duration: 45–60 minutes
The world famous Mappa Mundi is the largest surviving medieval map of the world and a unique international treasure. It records how scholars interpreted the world over 700 years ago and contains more than a thousand drawings and inscriptions, showing cities and towns, Biblical events, plants, animals, birds, strange creatures and monstrous races.

The Chained Library contains 225 illuminated manuscripts with the earliest dating from the 8th century, and over 1,200 early printed books. The books are chained to the 17th-century cases where they were housed and read.

Your visit offers the chance to explore our interpretive exhibition, finding out how and why these unique treasures were created. You will meet knowledgeable guides and enjoy the current temporary exhibition of rare books, archives and artefacts.

Booking your visit

Booking your group visit to Hereford Cathedral is essential, and we recommend you contact us well in advance of your visit to avoid disappointment. A copy of our tours guide can be downloaded here.

Please contact our Visitor Engagement Officer, Owen Towndrow, on the address below to arrange your visit, or for more details of the products and services we can offer your group.

Cathedral Office
5 College Cloisters
Cathedral Close
Hereford
HR1 2NG

01432 374202
[email protected]