Hereford Cathedral

The ancient cathedral at Hereford is one of the oldest in England with the oldest parts of the existing building dating back to the 12th century.

The peaceful banks of the River Wye have housed a cathedral since Saxon times, but the current building is primarily Norman with splendid turrets and high arched windows. The newly refurbished Lady Chapel was built in the 13th century and is considered to be among the finest examples of Early English architecture in the country.

The cathedral also bears the marks of distinguished architect James Wyatt, who was commissioned to carry out repairs to the Nave in 1786. Eight centuries of Christian worship have left their mark in fine tapestries, wood carvings and beautifully stained glass. The restored shrine of St Thomas of Hereford - a former Bishop who was canonised in 1320 - rests in the North Transept.

One of the best-known maps of the medieval world, the famous 'Mappa Mundi', is on permanent display in Hereford cathedral. It portrays the world around Jerusalem as known around 1300 and is essential viewing for scholars, historians and any visitor interested in gaining a quick glimpse into the world imagined by 13th century cartographers.

The Chained Library is now housed at the west end of the Cloister, in a new building designed by Sir William Whitfield. However, despite the modern surroundings, the original form of security (i.e. the chains) remains. The early days of the library recognised the importance of learning in the community, but also considered it vital that books were chained down to prevent readers removing them at the end of the day. With its earliest book dating from the 8th century, the chained library is now an important national treasure containing over 300 illuminated medieval manuscripts as well as many examples of early printed books. The cathedral, Mappa Mundi and Chained Library are open for most of the year but you are advised to check all opening times before you visit.

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