Mobility Access

Dedicated disabled parking for blue badge holders is available within the Cathedral Close at the West front of the Cathedral.  A paved path on a slight incline runs from this parking area to the main entrance to the Cathedral at a distance of approximately 109 yards / 100 metres.

There is a ramped access route into the Cathedral and once inside all areas are accessible, except for St Chad’s Head Chapel, which can only be accessed via a flight of steps. 

The Quire can be accessed by a ramp in the North Quire Aisle.

Unfortunately, there is only one disabled toilet which is located outside the Cathedral in the Old Stables Courtyard on the South side of the Cathedral Close near to the Dam Street entrance into the Close.  The accessible route from the Cathedral to this toilet is via the West End entrance.  The distance between the West End Entrance of the Cathedral and the Disabled toilet is approximately 546 yards/ 500 metres. This is opened with a radar key and keys are available from Chapters, Reception or the Vergers. 

The Shop at No.9, the Cathedral Shop, is located opposite the West End Entrance of the Cathedral and there is level access via the signposted route that provides entry into the rear area of the shop.  The distance between the Shop and the West End entrance of the Cathedral is approximately 328 yards/ 300 metres

Chapters, the Café in the Close is located on the South Side of the Cathedral Close and has ramped access.  The distance from the West End Entrance of the Cathedral to the Café is approximately 437 yards/ 400 metres.

There is reasonable level access in the Cathedral Close although there is a steeper gradient at the eastern end of the Close moving in a southerly direction. As the Cathedral and Close are historic areas, there are some uneven surfaces in places 

Mobility scooters and manual wheelchairs are welcome within all areas of the Cathedral and Close

Assistance dogs are welcome in all areas of the Cathedral and Close and water is available on request.

Deaf or hard of hearing access

The Cathedral is equipped with induction loops. Hearing aids should be switched to the T position.

Blind or partially-sighted access

A dedicated audio tour of the Cathedral for the blind and partially sighted is available on request from the Shop at No 9.

You can also find out more about The Diocesan Digest, the Sound Magazine for the Cathedral and Diocese.

Assistance dogs are welcome in all areas of the Cathedral and Close and water is available on request.