Following the enormous success of our Open Day in 2008, we are once again throwing open our doors and inviting people from all over the Diocese and beyond to discover more about the history of our iconic building and the people who live, work and worship here.

Visit the Cathedral on Saturday 19 June 10.00am – 5.00pm and share in a day which is being specially created to provide interest and fun for all ages with an emphasis on participation.

This is an opportunity to go ‘behind the scenes’ and see how our medieval Cathedral works in the 21st century, and how our staff and volunteers provide over 1200 services a year and welcome in excess of half a million visitors to the Cathedral and Close.

There will be displays showcasing many of the skills practised here, from the exceptional work of the medieval glazing specialists, conservators and masons in the Works Department through to the embroiderers and flower arrangers.

The Vestry, Muniments Room and Library will be open - although given the limitations of space and architecture, visits to these places will be carefully controlled.

Hear the Cathedral Choir and Junior Choir, join in an open choral workshop, have a mini tour and hear the Cathedral’s history in ten minutes! Bring your children to enjoy fun workshops and hands-on activities with the inspirational Education Department, meet the clergy informally and learn about the work of the Friends.

See the beautiful uninterrupted view of the nave from a walkway high up by the Cathedral’s west window, walk around the ancient cloisters and be amongst the first to enjoy the new-look freshly landscaped cloister garden.

There will be a marquee on the West lawn serving refreshments all day - including the Refectory’s delicious home made cakes.

What’s more - why not make a day of it and also visit the other Close attractions - Salisbury and South Wilts Museum, The Rifles Museum and The Wardrobe, Sarum College and the gardens of Mompesson House and Arundells - who are joining the Cathedral’s initiative and opening free of charge for the day.

The day concludes after a special service beginning at 4.00pm. Visit www.salisburycathedral.org.uk for more details and see next month’s issue of Cathedral News.