The Cathedral of St John the Baptist, a stunning architectural masterpiece, recently opened its doors to a group of staff and volunteer City Hosts from Visit Norwich. On a crisp Wednesday morning, March 26, the Cathedral’s Heritage Officer, Richard, warmly welcomed the visitors and led them on a fascinating guided tour around the exterior of the building. As they wandered around the Cathedral’s perimeter, Richard shared his extensive knowledge, pointing out the intricate details and remarkable features of the architecture. The group was then invited inside, where they were awestruck by the sheer scale and grandeur of the interior. The tour not only highlighted the Cathedral’s historical significance but also its profound spiritual importance, both for the city and the Catholic community across the Diocese of East Anglia.
The visit was meticulously organized by Sarah Miller, the Bookings and Marketing Coordinator, as part of an ongoing effort to foster a stronger relationship between the Cathedral and Visit Norwich. The primary objective was to equip the City Hosts with a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Cathedral, enabling them to share accurate and engaging information with visitors to Norwich. By doing so, the Cathedral aims to enhance the overall visitor experience, ensuring that those exploring the city are aware of the Cathedral’s rich history and cultural significance. As the group explored the Cathedral, they began to appreciate the intricate tapestry of stories, legends, and myths that are woven into the fabric of this magnificent building.
Later that day, the Visit Norwich members were treated to a unique and exclusive networking event at the Cathedral, which included a Hidden Places tour. This exceptional experience offered a rare glimpse into areas usually closed to the public, such as the Sacristy, the Choristers’ tunnel, the concealed room above the Walsingham Chapel, and sections of the roof space. As they ventured into these hidden areas, the group discovered a treasure trove of secrets and surprises, each one revealing a new facet of the Cathedral’s history and character. The tour was a resounding success, leaving the visitors with a lasting impression of the Cathedral’s beauty, mystique, and significance.
The evening drew to a close with a drinks and canapés reception in the Narthex, with breathtaking views over the Cathedral garden. The relaxed atmosphere provided an ideal opportunity for local businesses and organizations to mingle, forge new relationships, and discover some of the Cathedral’s lesser-known treasures. As they sipped their glasses of wine and savored the delicious canapés, the guests couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe and wonder at the majestic surroundings. The Cathedral, with its stunning architecture and rich history, provided a unique and unforgettable backdrop for the evening’s festivities.
Charley Purves, the Cathedral Manager, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration with Visit Norwich, highlighting the mutual benefits of the partnership. By working closely together, the Cathedral hopes to increase visitor numbers and raise awareness of its status as one of only nine cities in the UK with two cathedrals. Furthermore, the Cathedral aims to promote the ‘garden quarter’ of the city, a beautiful and tranquil area that encompasses Chapelfield Gardens, the Cathedral Garden, and the Plantation Garden. This idyllic quarter, with its stunning gardens and historic buildings, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by visitors to Norwich.
As the evening drew to a close, the guests departed, filled with a newfound appreciation for the Cathedral and its significance. The visit had not only provided a unique insight into the Cathedral’s history and architecture but had also forged new connections and relationships between the Cathedral, Visit Norwich, and the local community. As the Cathedral continues to work closely with Visit Norwich, it is likely that this collaborative effort will yield numerous benefits, not only for the Cathedral but also for the city of Norwich as a whole. By promoting the Cathedral and its surrounding gardens, the city can expect to attract more visitors, boosting tourism and enhancing the local economy. As the Cathedral’s doors close on another day, its beauty, history, and significance remain, waiting to be discovered by those who venture into its hallowed halls.
