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Southwell Minster

Southwell, United Kingdom•4.8(1.9k)•Heritage Site, Museum

Explore a magnificent medieval cathedral with guided tours, beautiful palace gardens, and family-friendly learning activities in a historic setting.

Southwell Minster is a stunning medieval cathedral that welcomes families to discover centuries of history and architecture. Visitors can enjoy guided tours of the cathedral highlights, explore the Archbishop's Palace and its surrounding gardens, and participate in virtual tours and drone flythroughs for those unable to visit in person. The venue offers dedicated children's worship services and family learning programs, making it accessible and engaging for younger visitors. The Refectory Cafe provides refreshments, and the on-site shop offers souvenirs. The palace gardens create a peaceful outdoor space for families to enjoy, while the historic Chapter Library appeals to those interested in the building's rich heritage. Southwell Minster hosts regular concerts and events, including organ concerts and Friday lunchtime performances, adding cultural enrichment to visits. With free entry, dog-friendly facilities, and pushchair accessibility, families can explore at their own pace and enjoy the spiritual and historical significance of this important cultural landmark.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Opening Hours

Monday: 10:00 – 18:30
Tuesday: 10:00 – 18:30
Wednesday: 10:00 – 18:30
Thursday: 10:00 – 18:30
Friday: 10:00 – 18:30
Saturday: 10:00 – 18:30
Sunday: 10:00 – 16:30

Venue Details

Venue Type

Indoor & Outdoor

Typical visit duration

All day

Booking

Walk-in

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

☕ Food & Drink

Refectory Cafe

Cafe and shop offering refreshments to visitors

Hours: Monday-Saturday: 9:30am-4pm, Sunday: 10am-4pm

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Google Reviews

4.8(1.9k reviews)
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Warren Sparrow

Warren Sparrow

3 weeks ago

Beautiful cathedral that is absolutely huge. There is a great shaded area outside for you to sit and look at the church, do a bit of reading or just watch the people go by. While we were there, there was a gentleman painting the church. Very peaceful and you have the option of going inside and looking around for a small donation.

S
shelley trickett

shelley trickett

2 months ago

Beautiful building to just walk around complete with a coffee shop on the grounds (a little expensive,£4.50 for a mocha but it was good coffee so ok for a treat) some stunning historical headstones in the grounds and also the entrance to some formal gardens and ruins. There's a small museum too on site that I believe to be free. Inside it's beautiful and peaceful with various sections marked with information boards. Photos are a mixture of the outside and the gardens at the side. There was a service on so didn't go inside that day 4 stars because they've now put a sign up saying voluntary donation of £5 for going inside and it's always been something that's free. We always leave a donation but I don't like being pressured about this.

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Hritik Barate

Hritik Barate

3 months ago

Southwell Minster is a breathtaking architectural gem, perfectly blending a sturdy, grand Norman nave with an elegant Gothic quire. The highlight is undoubtedly the Chapter House, home to the exquisitely detailed "Leaves of Southwell" stone carvings. It offers a serene, welcoming atmosphere, free from the crowds of larger cathedrals. Located in a charming market town, it is an essential stop for any history or architecture enthusiast.

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David Alexander

David Alexander

6 months ago

A magnificent cathedral, qith many interesting facets. Fantastic medieval carvings. Still very much at the centre of the community both as a spiritual centre and venue for other events. A fascinating cross section through history. Excellent and friendly vergers. Great gift shop for souvenirs. Pleasant gardens with nature and art trails.

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Victoria Mullis

Victoria Mullis

9 months ago

Fascinating place to visit. Beautiful building very interesting. Lots of features. The guides were excellent, very informative and helpful. You were given an information sheet of key points of interest upon entering which was useful. I personally liked looking for the wooden mice carved into some of the furniture near the altar. There is also a good size cafe and shop with toilets just on the edge of the grounds. Definitely recommend a visit. There is free parking for 1 hour only but you can pay for longer, directly opposite the Cathedral which is handy.

Reviews last updated: 29 September 2026

Events at Southwell Minster

No upcoming events scheduled

Check back soon for new events at this venue.

This venue was last updated on 29 September 2026

Frequently asked questions about Southwell Minster

Is Southwell Minster free to visit?

Entry to Southwell Minster is completely free — there are no admission charges, making it a great no-cost option for a family day out.

Is Southwell Minster dog-friendly?

Yes, dogs are welcome at Southwell Minster.

Is there parking at Southwell Minster?

Southwell Minster doesn't have on-site parking, but parking is available nearby.

Is there food at Southwell Minster?

Yes — Refectory Cafe is on site at Southwell Minster. Cafe and shop offering refreshments to visitors

Is Southwell Minster pushchair-friendly?

Yes, Southwell Minster 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 Southwell Minster?

Southwell Minster is a full-day experience — plan accordingly.

How do I get to Southwell Minster by public transport?

Southwell Minster is well-served by public transport.
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