Roof Visits

Ascend through nearly 950 years of history, guided by knowledgeable volunteers, to the roof spaces of Chichester Cathedral.
 

Event details

Tickets
https://www.ticketsource.com/chichester-cathedral/e-olkkvg
Date
Wednesday 1 July 2026, 12:00
Venue
Chichester Cathedral
Category
Tours, Tours, History & Heritage
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This 45 minute journey includes climbing winding staircases and exploring roof spaces previously closed to the public.

During peregrine fledging season the Cathedral’s lantern (the open area beneath the spire) is closed. Throughout this period we will explore two rarely-seen areas of the Cathedral, the North and South Transept roof spaces, rebuilt after the 1861 spire collapse. You’ll get a close-up look at historic timberwork, ingenious roof construction, and the stories of local donations that helped rebuild the Cathedral. 

Please note: this visit does not include access to the Cathedral Lantern.

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Please ensure you read our full Terms & Conditions below

Terms & Conditions

Climbing 164 spiral steps is strenuous and should not be attempted by anyone who has a health condition which could be adversely affected by sustained physical exertion. 

Additionally, we strongly recommend that those with mobility difficulties or concerns with heights and confined spaces do not undertake the tour. 

If you have any concerns about your ability to undertake the tour or you suffer from any of the following medical conditions, please consult a medical professional who can advise you:  

  • Angina, palpitations or heart conditions such as a narrowed heart valve
  • High blood pressure / poorly controlled blood pressure
  • Respiratory conditions such as asthma
  • Back, joint or limb pain or injury
  • Arthritis
  • Labyrinthitis and Ménière's disease
  • Vertigo
  • Major surgery in the last 6 months
  • A fit or seizure in the last 6 months 

Please bring any essential medication with you (for example, asthma inhalers, diabetic medication etc.).  

Any visitor under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or any other substance which could impair judgement, co-ordination, and cause risk to yourself, and others will not be admitted to the tour.  

This tour is not suitable for anyone under the height of 1.2m. Babies and young children will not be permitted on this tour. 

Children, aged 16 and under, must be accompanied by a responsible adult on a one-to-one basis. 

Smoking and vaping are not permitted while on the Cathedral site. 

Those who experience claustrophobia may not wish to take this tour. There are several tight spiral staircases and small and narrow doorways on the route to the roof spaces.

 

Important information
  • Please arrive 10 minutes before the tour time: a health & safety briefing precedes the tour. If you arrive late, you will not be permitted to join the tour.
  • Photography of the tour is permitted at points. Your guide will indicate these locations. Tripods are not permitted on the tour.
  • Tours may be cancelled due to safeguarding or safety concerns from Cathedral Guides, or high winds and inclement weather.
  • Refunds will be processed in case of cancellation.
  • Please note that there are no places to sit throughout the tour.
  • Please note tours are in English only.
  • Please note there is no wheelchair access to the roof spaes.
  • Dogs are not permitted on this tour.
  • Food and drink is not permitted on the tour.
  • Suitable footwear, with good grip, must be worn.
  • Small, cross body bags are permitted.
  • We are not able to store personal items, larger bags or luggage on site.