Preserving medieval craftsmanship and improving access at the heart of the Cathedral Close.
The Challenge
Built in the 15th century, the Cathedral Cloisters are among the most significant and best-loved features of Chichester Cathedral. Comprising three covered passageways — eastern, southern and western arms — they frame the Cloister Garth, also known as the ‘Paradise’ garden.
For over 600 years, the Cloisters have served as a vital thoroughfare for clergy, staff, worshippers and visitors. With five public entrances and daily footfall, they remain central to the Cathedral’s life.
By the mid-2010s, the western arm was the last remaining section in urgent need of conservation. While the eastern and southern arms had been restored within the previous two decades, the western arm showed significant deterioration:
- Window tracery and stone cills were in poor condition
- Mortar pointing had badly decayed
- Rainwater goods required full replacement
- The gateway into the ‘Paradise’ garden, temporarily altered decades earlier, needed a permanent and appropriate solution
Without intervention, both structural integrity and historic character were at risk.
The Solution
In 2017, a skilled team of craftsmen and conservators undertook four months of careful restoration work.
The project included:
- Repair and selective replacement of medieval masonry
- Comprehensive refurbishment of glazing
- Removal and renewal of defective mortar pointing
- Replacement of rainwater goods with durable cast-iron fittings
- Installation of a new stone gateway, iron gate and accessible ramp, creating a permanent and welcoming entrance into the ‘Paradise’ garden
The works were carried out during the busy lead-up to Advent, providing visitors with a rare opportunity to witness heritage conservation in action.
In 2025, further funding was secured to restore and replace damaged paving within the Cloisters, improving safety and accessibility while preserving the historic setting.
The Impact
The restoration has:
- Secured the structural integrity of the western Cloister
- Preserved medieval craftsmanship for future generations
- Improved drainage and long-term resilience
- Enhanced accessibility through the new ramped entrance
- Safeguarded a space used daily by thousands of people
Today, the Cloisters once again reflect the beauty and craftsmanship of their medieval origins while continuing to serve the Cathedral’s living community.
Funding & Partnership
The project was led and funded by the Chichester Cathedral Restoration & Development Trust.
Support was generously provided by:
The First World War Centenary Cathedral Repair Fund, The Hans and Julia Rausing Trust (on behalf of Helen, Lady Broughton), The Headley Trust, The R H Scholes Trust and The Arts Society Chichester
In 2025, funding was secured from the Benefact Trust, towards the restoration and replacement of damaged paving in the Cloisters to ensure safety, preserve heritage and improve accessibility for visitors. This funding covers roughly half of the project cost, if you would like to support this project do get in touch with ellen.cheshire@chichestercatehdral.org.uk or make a donation to our work to improve accessibility here at the Cathedral.
Looking Ahead
The Cloisters remain one of the Cathedral’s most used and cherished spaces. Ongoing inspection and careful maintenance are essential to preserving both their historic fabric and their role in daily Cathedral life.
Continued support ensures that this unique setting remains safe, accessible and beautiful for generations to come.
Support Our Ongoing Work
Projects like the restoration of the Western Cloister are only possible through generous philanthropic support.
Your gift will help us conserve historic spaces, improve accessibility, and protect Chichester Cathedral’s heritage for the future.
Chichester Cathedral Restoration & Development Trust CIO
Registered Charity No. 1156729
Please note: CAF Donate deducts a processing fee of up to 3.7% from online donations.
