Venue Description

St Albans Cathedral is the oldest site of continuous Christian worship in Britain. It stands over the place where Alban, the first martyr, was buried after giving his life for his faith over 1700 years ago. The building itself is a blend of architectural styles spanning a millennia and contains recycled Roman bricks from Verulamium. Of special interest are the 13th century wall paintings, a rare watching loft and the fully restored medieval shrines of St Alban and St Amphibalus, the priest who converted Alban to Christianity.

Accessibility

Cathedral Entrances Their are two step free entrances to the Cathedral: The Welcome Centre Entrance or the West End Entrance. Lifts and ramps The main Cathedral is mostly based on one level although in some areas wheelchair access requires the use of lifts or ramps. The lifts are self operating, though they feature instructions on how to attract attention if you require further help. Volunteers are on hand to advise on access and can summon help from virgers to provide access ramps. There is one lift located at the West End to enable access to the Nave of the Cathedral, and another located in the Lady Chapel, to enable access to the Shrine Chapel. The lifts are self-operating. The Cathedral has several built in ramps and several portable ramps. If you require help with the lifts or a portable ramp, please make contact with a virger or one of our Welcome Desk volunteers, who will be happy to assist you. Accessible Toilets The main wheelchair accessible toilet is located in the Welcome Centre. For further information, please download the full access statement. Borrow a wheelchair There are a limited number of wheelchairs available near the West End entrances to borrow for a visit. These are usually available on a first come first served basis, but please contact the Cathedral Office on mail@stalbanscathedral.org or 01727 890210. Unfortunately we cannot provide assistance around the Cathedral for wheelchair users. Guide and Assistance Dogs Guide and assistance dogs are welcome in the Cathedral. Seating There is seating available in the Nave, Crossing and Lady Chapel Concerts and events Entry to the Cathedral is free The Cathedral offers free tickets to carers for some concerts and events. For more information, contact the Cathedral Box Office on 01727 890290 or boxoffice@stalbanscathedral.org. Hearing loop system There is a hearing loop system for services and concerts. Large Print Guides There are large print booklets available for Cathedral services.

Accessibility Guide

Accessibility Guide Link: https://www.stalbanscathedral.org/access

Access Statement

Access Statement Link: https://www.stalbanscathedral.org/access

Accessible Performances

We offer free guided tours for individuals with visual impairments. A dedicated group of our Cathedral guides have been trained by VocalEyes to deliver these audio-described tours so that our magnificent building can be more accessible. Book your tickets online, email the Box Office at boxoffice@stalbanscathedral.org or call 01727 890290. Please note booking closes at 4pm the day before the tour, book in advance to avoid disappointment. Tickets admit one person with a visual impairment and one companion.

Toilets

There is a public access male/female disabled toilet in the Welcome Centre. Entry is through a door 90cm wide, wash basin, soap dispenser and sensor hand dryer at low level. The light switch is low level with good fluorescent lighting. Horizontal and vertical grab-rails are provided at the rear and to the right (facing the toilet). The toilets have alarm to call for assistance. If concerned inform a virger to check after a period of time. In an emergency an alarm horn is sounded around the Cathedral and public buildings. There are no specific alarms or warning lights in the toilet.

Staff

Information about the staff has not been added for this venue.

Assistance dog facilities

Assistance dog exercise facilities

The Cathedral orchard is right outside the Cathedral itself and offers large green space for dogs to run around. Verulamium Park is a short distance downhill from the Cathedral as well.

Other assistance dog facilities

A water bowl is available from the Welcome Desk for assistance dogs.