Explore Exeter Cathedral's hidden secrets

This January, Exeter Cathedral is offering a fascinating range of behind-the-scenes experiences for visitors, including the chance to step into the roof void of the iconic building and explore its historic architecture.

The Cathedral’s Roof Tours provide a rare opportunity to discover the hidden spaces above the nave, South Tower, Lead Room, and Ringing Chamber. For those brave enough, and weather permitting, the tour extends to the roof of the North Tower, offering sweeping views of Exeter and beyond, including the city’s historic skyline, the surrounding Devon countryside, and the River Exe.

The Roof Tours are scheduled for the following dates in January:

- Tuesday 7, at 11:15am
- Friday 10, at 2:15pm
- Tuesday 14, at 11:15am
- Friday 17, at 11:15am
- Saturday, 18 at 2:15pm
- Tuesday 21, at 11:15am
- Saturday 25, at 11:15am

The tour lasts approximately 90 minutes and is priced at £18.50 for adults and £8 for children (aged 8–17, when accompanied by an adult). Due to the steep climb up over 150 steps, the tour is not accessible to those with mobility challenges.

In addition to the Roof Tours, Exeter Cathedral is offering a brand-new Uncovering the Civil War tour, which will delve into the Cathedral’s role during the 17th-century conflict. The tour will examine the evidence of the Civil War’s impact on the Cathedral’s structure and decoration, shedding light on the building’s turbulent past. This tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of history, architecture, and conflict.

From February, visitors can also look forward to the return of Museum of the Moon by world-renowned artist Luke Jerram. The seven-metre illuminated sculpture, which features detailed NASA imagery of the moon’s surface, will be displayed in the Cathedral’s nave. The installation, which made its Exeter debut in 2022, will be accompanied by a surround-sound composition by award-winning composer Dan Jones, creating an immersive lunar experience. The installation explores the moon’s scientific and cultural significance and invites reflection on humanity’s relationship with the celestial body.

These experiences provide an exciting way for visitors to engage with Exeter Cathedral’s rich history and its ongoing cultural relevance. Whether exploring the architectural secrets of the Roof Tour, learning about the Cathedral’s role in the English Civil War, or marvelling at the Museum of the Moon, Exeter Cathedral is offering something for everyone this January.

For more things to do in Exeter this January, click here.