Introduction

Norwich Cathedral was founded in 1096 by Bishop Herbert de Losinga and built using Normandy stone shipped over from Caen. By 1145 the building had been completed, under the direction of Bishop Herbert's successor, Eborard de Montgomery.

The Cathedral was established as a Benedictine monastery with its 'rule' based on worship, hospitality and learning, three principles which continue to underpin the work of the Cathedral today. An excerpt from the Rule of St. Benedict is read at Evensong each day and the Cathedral has three Residentiary Canons, one taking responsibility for each of the three principles.

In 1272 serious riots and fighting erupted, resulting in almost all the Norman monastic buildings, including the Cloister walkways, being destroyed by fire. In 1362 the timber spire fell in a hurricane and in 1463 it perished after a disastrous lightning strike. It was Bishop James Goldwell who commissioned the rebuilding of the spire, using brick encased in stone and raising it higher than any of its predecessors. This is essentially the same spire which dominates the city today.

Today the footprint of the original monastery has been recreated with the addition of the Refectory Restaurant and the Hostry Visitor & Education Centre, opened by HM Queen Elizabeth II in May 2010. The Cathedral itself is one of the finest complete Romanesque buildings in Europe, and boasts the highest Norman tower and largest monastic Cloister in England. It houses more than a thousand beautiful medieval roof boss sculptures.

Norwich Cathedral has survived riot, war, plague and fire to fulfil its mission. For over 900 years it has dominated the Norwich skyline bearing witness to the glory of God. It has always been greatly loved by the people of Norfolk and was voted the county's favourite building.

Highlights

Admission & opening hours

Tours & education

Amenities & facilities