How do I book?
The Schools Office takes bookings for primary, secondary and special schools and youth groups, holiday clubs, Brownies, Cubs, etc. We are open from 09.00 – 17.00 hrs from Monday to Friday, including school holidays. Teachers are welcome to visit and discuss the planning of a visit.
- Telephone the Schools Office to check availability of day and time on 01227 865262 or make an enquiry on schools@canterbury-cathedral.org
- A letter and booking form will be sent to you
- Complete and return the booking form to confirm your visit.
- Bring full payment on the day.
How much does it cost?
Allow £5 to £7 per pupil for your visit, depending on activities booked. Entrance prices are reviewed annually and so please contact the schools department for the correct cost of your visit.
How big can groups be?
1 adult is free per 10 pupils for secondary school groups and we expect at least 1 adult per 15 pupils. For primary school groups all adults – within reason – are free of charge. For guided tours, costume trails and the activity room, pupils are divided into groups of no more than 20.
How do I pay?
Please return your payment in full with the booking form, or pay on the day by cash, credit card or cheque made payable to Canterbury Cathedral. Payment in arrears will attract an administration fee.
Where do we park?
There are no facilities for parking in the Precincts, but there are many car parks nearby and the coach park is a 10 minute walk from the Cathedral. Visit http://www.canterbury.co.uk for further information.
What if we are delayed?
Please telephone us on 01227 865262. Guides are booked for specific tour times and they will wait for 15 minutes, unless we are notified of delays.
What if we have to cancel?
24 hours’ notice is required for a refund.
Where do we go when we arrive?
Please go through the ‘Booked groups and Pass holders’ Gate and a Shepherd in a blue jersey will take you to the Welcome Centre to register and pay, and direct you as required.
Can we bring children with special needs?
We welcome visits from Special Schools and children with special needs. A leaflet explaining our facilities is available from the Schools Office. Please let us know if you will be bringing wheelchairs.
It may be possible to arrange parking for Special School minibuses in the Precincts if booked in advance.
What about lunch?
You can buy some food at our kiosk just outside the shop in the summer, or you can bring your own. A lunch room for up to 50 pupils is available – there is a charge per head of £1.00 per pupil for each block of 30 minutes. Use the booking form to reserve your slot after discussing it with the Schools Office.
What do we need to bring with us?
Writing materials if using a trail sheet or sketching. Wear sensible shoes.
Do you provide worksheets?
Yes. We offer trail sheets for all age ranges.
What is expected of teachers?
To remain with their group at all times.
Can we buy some souvenirs?
There is a small shop in the Cathedral, and the main shop is at the exit. If you would like to order ‘goody bags’, then just tick the box on the booking form.
Where are the toilets?
There are free public toilets. It is the responsibility of the accompanying teacher/adult/supervisor to accompany the children in their care to the toilet.
Where can I find your risk assessment?
Contact the Schools Office.
May we come to the Cathedral before our visit?
Teachers are encouraged to come for a free pre-visit inspection to look around the Cathedral and the Schools Department. Just telephone or email to let us know you are coming.