Gloucester Cathedral

History at its Finest

England is full of history, most of which is deep rooted into the culture of the people that live here. In addition to many historical buildings, churches and castles, the wide open pastures and fields are ideal for anyone who’s the adventurous type.

While all of England is rich with culture and history, the Cotswolds in particular are home to one of the oldest cathedrals in the land: Gloucester Cathedral.
Built in 678 CE by an Anglo-Saxon community, Gloucester Cathedral has stood the test of time, as it has seen everything from indoctrination to coronations of kings.

Around 1000 CE, the cathedral became a Benedictine Monastery, and by 1100 CE, St. Peter’s Abbey was consecrated.

In 1216, King Henry III was the first king to be coroneted there, with several other chains of monarchies being reconnected thereafter.

Various historical ceremonies took place up until 2006, when the last known activity there was the replacement of gargoyles on the south aisle of the cathedral.
In addition to learning about the history, what else can you expect when visiting Gloucester Cathedral?

Situated in the British countryside you’ll see centuries of some of the finest architecture seen in the area, active services because the church is still operational, music and even guided tours and group visits of the cathedral, tower and surrounding areas.
If you decide to tour the grounds and cathedral in a tour or by yourself, you’ll eventually pass the east window in the Chapter House. Crafted by Christopher Whall, a key member of the Arts and Crafts movement of the early 20th century, the east window features arguably his finest work in the form of stained glass named The Lady Chapel.

The Great Hall in Harry Potter…

Gloucester Cathedral also plays a momentous backdrop to the Hollywood series, Harry Potter. The interior and many areas around the outside of the cathedral featured extensively as locations in the film series.

Considered by many to be the finest stained glass exhibition of that period in England, visitors will be able to witness one of the most beautiful examples of fine art in all of England.

So, if you’re ever in the Cotswolds, don’t forget to visit Gloucester Cathedral.

While the Cotswolds contain more sites and history than you could possibly get to in a day,  Gloucester Cathedral is one destination that you’ll be glad you fit into your schedule.