Guided tours
There’s so much to see in the Cathedral. One of the best ways to explore is with our trained Cathedral Guides, who’ll tell you all about its fascinating history, characters and events. And if you’re visiting with children, you can follow our free children’s trail.
Cathedral tour
These tours offer a great introduction to the Cathedral and its history and treasures. Hear about Winchester during Anglo-Saxon times and what changed when the Normans invaded, and the many characters and events that have shaped the history of England and left their mark on this magnificent building.
When: Mon–Sat on the hour from 10.00am – 3.00pm
Duration: 1 hour – 1.5 hours
Price: Included in admission, no tickets required
Please note: Tours are offered in English
Find out more about the Cathedral’s history and treasures
Crypt tour
Explore one of the oldest parts of the Cathedral and the least altered part of the Norman building. The crypt provides a stunning setting for Antony Gormley’s sculpture Sound II.
When: Mon – Sat at 10.30am, 12.30pm and 2.30pm
Duration: 20 minutes
Price: Included in admission. Tickets available from the Entrance Desk
Please note: During the wet winter months the crypt can flood. If this is the case we are unable to run tours, but you can still see the crypt from a viewing platform.
Find out more about the Cathedral’s Sound II
Tower tour
Climb the 213 steps to the top of the tower and experience magnificent views across Winchester and the county. You will see the ringing chamber, the great Cathedral bells and walk the full length of the nave roof with its huge wood beams.
When: Wed 2.15pm and Sat 11.30am and 2.15pm (Jan-April and Oct-Nov). Mon-Fri 2.15pm and Sat 11.30am and 2.15pm (May-Sep)
Duration: 1.5 hours
Price: £6, available from the Entrance Desk
Please note: This tour is not suitable for children under the age of 12. Parts of this tour will not be enjoyed by those afraid of heights or confined spaces.
Find out more about the Cathedral bells
Audio tour
Find out more about the Cathedral with your guide, actor David Suchet. The tour is flexible, allowing you to explore the cathedral in your own time and listen to further information if you want. The audio tour soundtrack includes music by the Cathedral Choir.
When: During visitor opening hours
Duration: 45 minutes – 1.5 hours
Price: £3, available from the Entrance Desk
Find out more about the Cathedral’s history and treasures
Pre-booked group tours
We offer a wide range of themed tours for groups in addition to the tours above, tailored to the needs of the group. Special rates and catering packages are also available.
Download a themed tours list
- To find out more, email Sarah Williams, our Visitor Services and Volunteer Manager or call her on 01962 857225
Free children’s trail
We want children to enjoy visiting the Cathedral. Our specially designed children’s trail has been written by a professional children’s writer and is beautifully illustrated. Let the children lead the way using the large-scale map, and work through the activities with them.
You’ll find fascinating facts, wonderful stories and strange traditions, and discover animals, beasts and people along the way.
Duration: approximately 45 minutes
Price: Included in admission. Available from our welcome stewards and Entrance Desk
Find out more
Contact us
Email Sarah Williams, our Visitor Services and Volunteer Manager, or call her on 01962 857225
Download a map of the Cathedral and Close (PDF)
Includes the Visitors’ Centre, Education Centre and Cathedral Office
Visit our Cathedral shop
Find original and inspiring books, CDs, gifts and souvenirs