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Mappa Mundi

Hereford, United Kingdom•4.6(109)•Historic House, Museum

Discover one of the world's most unique medieval treasures — the Hereford Mappa Mundi, a 14th-century map drawn on vellum, plus the world's largest surviving chained library and the historic Magna Car

Mappa Mundi offers families an extraordinary journey into medieval history and heritage housed within Hereford Cathedral. The venue's crown jewel is the Hereford Mappa Mundi, a remarkable 1.59 x 1.34 metre map created around 1300 on a single sheet of calf vellum. This fascinating document shows the world as medieval Christians understood it, with Jerusalem at the centre and east at the top, revealing the geographical and spiritual worldview of late medieval Europe. The exhibition also features the Chained Library, the largest surviving chained library in the world, containing approximately 1,500 books dating from around 800AD to the nineteenth century, including 227 medieval manuscript books still studied by scholars worldwide. Visitors can also view the historic Magna Carta 1217, one of the most important documents in history and the foundation of English common law. Beyond these remarkable collections, the cathedral itself showcases architectural excellence spanning from Norman times to the present day, including the Romanesque Nave, beautifully restored shrines, and an award-winning twentieth-century library building. The venue is suitable for all ages from birth onwards, with pushchair-friendly facilities, food available on-site, and an indoor setting ideal for family visits. School visits are specifically catered for, making it an educational destination for children learning about medieval history and heritage.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Opening Hours

Monday: 10:00 – 17:00
Tuesday: 10:00 – 17:00
Wednesday: 10:00 – 17:00
Thursday: 10:00 – 17:00
Friday: 10:00 – 17:00
Saturday: 10:00 – 17:00
Sunday: Closed

Venue Details

Venue Type

Indoor

Typical visit duration

1-3 hours

Booking

Walk-in

Recommended ages

0 months (newborn)+

What this place offers

ToiletsToilets
Public transportPublic transport nearby
Accessible toilets
Free WiFi
Baby changingBaby changing facilities
Food available
On-site parking
🐕Dog-friendly
Parking nearby
Pushchair friendlyPushchair friendly

Google Reviews

4.6(109 reviews)
F
Flora Stanbridge

Flora Stanbridge

a month ago

Great exhibition covering what the Mappa Mundi is, which blew me away as it's incredible to be able to see part of history like this. To think our ancestors produced this wonderful map and we can still view it today was really amazing. The chained library is also fascinating and contains lots of interesting items on display. Entry is £7.50, not included in the general cathedral entry as this is of course free.

M
Melanie Cohn

Melanie Cohn

6 months ago

Very nice educational display with great docents that helped answer my questions. The cathedral itself is gorgeous. Plus there is a nice café and several gift shops. Highly recommended for artists and history buffs.

S
Sue

Sue

a year ago

Incredibly well preserved medieval map of the world! Includes a 3D copy and English translated version. Volunteer staff were incredibly knowledgeable and really enhanced the experience. So very rare, you should absolutely make it part of your visit to the Cathedral. Ticket price per adult was £7.50 at the time of visiting but also included entry to the chained library, another unique exhibit! Lovely coffee shop on site with pretty outdoor seating on dry days. WC's are also available.

T
T at Fletch

T at Fletch

a year ago

We visited 1pm and found the map enlightening and bigger than expected. It was a shame we couldn't hear the audio describing it 🙁 due someone talking to loudly.. The persons voice just echoed everywhere!! We ended up asking said person to try and lower his voice.. To little avail.. I think a gently reminder at reception asking the public to keep noise to a minimum, might atleast help.

D
Derek C

Derek C

2 years ago

Got absolutely absorbed in the Mappa Mundi. A great insight into the religious thinking of it's day. A helpful volunteer helped to illuminate our experience. The chained library was interesting as well, but of course you cannot removed the books 📚 🔒. Recommended. £7.50 entry fee but we must have stayed for nearly 2 hours.

Reviews last updated: 7 October 2026

Events at Mappa Mundi

No upcoming events scheduled

Check back soon for new events at this venue.

This venue was last updated on 7 October 2026

Frequently asked questions about Mappa Mundi

Is Mappa Mundi free to visit?

Mappa Mundi is a paid attraction — see the official website for current ticket prices.

What ages is Mappa Mundi suitable for?

Mappa Mundi is suitable for visitors of all ages, from babies through to adults.

Is Mappa Mundi dog-friendly?

Dogs are not permitted at Mappa Mundi.

Is there parking at Mappa Mundi?

Mappa Mundi doesn't have on-site parking, but parking is available nearby.

Is there food at Mappa Mundi?

Yes, food is available on site at Mappa Mundi.

Is Mappa Mundi pushchair-friendly?

Yes, Mappa Mundi is pushchair, pram and buggy friendly — most areas are step-free so you can navigate easily with little ones in tow.

How long should we plan to spend at Mappa Mundi?

Plan 1–3 hours for a visit to Mappa Mundi.

How do I get to Mappa Mundi by public transport?

Mappa Mundi isn't on a major public transport route — driving is recommended.

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