Lincoln Cathedral will be open to tourists, pilgrims and general visitors from Wednesday 5 August.
To welcome back visitors, and to thank everyone for their continuing support, for the first month there will be a reduced admission of £5 per adult and children under 16 will be free.
The usual admission fees will resume on Monday 7 September.
The Very Revd Christine Wilson, Dean of Lincoln said, “Lincoln Cathedral is a place of hospitality and welcome for all, so it is a great joy once again to invite visitors to come and explore this sacred space, discover its rich history and enjoy its unique and peaceful atmosphere.
“We know that many people have missed spending time in this inspirational and beautiful building, and we have missed having them here. It has been important that we take time to ensure we protect the wellbeing of all our visitors, staff and volunteers. Now that the necessary measures are in place, the whole team here is delighted to offer a warm welcome both to those who have visited before, and to those who are stepping inside Lincoln Cathedral for the first time.”
The doors will be open to visitors from 10am to 4pm Monday to Saturday and 11am to 3.30pm on Sundays.
The Cathedral had to close completely in late March, re-opening for private prayer on 15 June and for gathered worship on 5 July. Since then final preparations have been taking place to allow the Cathedral safely to reopen to tourists.
Lincoln Cathedral has been awarded the “Good to Go” mark by Visit Britain. The award signals to anyone wishing to visit that they can be confident that every opportunity possible is taken to ensure their wellbeing. The UK-wide industry standard and consumer mark demonstrates that the Cathedral is following government and public health guidance in relation to COVID-19.
To help to keep all visitors, staff and volunteers as safe as possible a one-way system is in place and hand sanitiser stations are available to use around the building. In line with Church of England and government guidance, visitors are asked to wear face coverings in all areas of the Cathedral.
The majority of the Cathedral will be open for visitors to explore and enjoy, including the Cathedral Shop and toilets, although the library, some chapels and the Refectory will remain closed.
The Cathedral’s knowledgeable and enthusiastic team of volunteer guides will be on hand around the building to share information and bring its history to life. There will unfortunately be no roof or tower tours as it is currently not possible to facilitate social distancing in the confined spaces of the Cathedral walls and staircases.
