We appreciate that some people may need extra help and advice to make the most of their time spent in the Cathedral. If you have any requests please contact Reception on 01603 218300.
Wheelchair users
Level access into the Cathedral is available through the Hostry Visitor & Education Centre which is open 0930 - 1630 Monday - Saturday. Outside those hours and on Sundays there is level access through the South Door and a ramp and lift give access via the West Door.
A ramp can be provided to the Presbytery if you ask a verger on arrival.
At all times there is wheelchair access to the Refectory Restaurant and Coffee Shop, Gift Shop and Library.
We have a small number of wheelchairs available for free loan to visitors for use within the Cathedral and Close. Please contact the Vergers (01603 218325) in advance of your visit.
This is a medieval building and it is not always possible to provide all the facilities that we would wish. For example, there is currently no access for a wheelchair user to the Treasury or Cloister Garth (grass).
Parking
Limited parking is available for vehicles bearing an official Blue Badge. Disabled parking permits will be issued by the gatekeepers for a duration of two hours on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Three designated parking bays are provided next to the accessible entrance to the Refectory Restaurant, Library and Cloisters and a further three at the West Front.
A space is provided at the South Door for a minibus carrying disabled passengers. Minibuses must book this space in advance through the Cathedral Estates Manager (01603 218309).
Toilets
There is a wheelchair accessible toilet on the lower floor corridor of the Refectory Restaurant and Coffee Shop which also includes baby changing facilities.
Lifts
One lift in the Refectory building serves the Refectory Restaurant & Coffee Shop and Library. Another lift in the Hostry Education & Visitor Centre links the Cloister, Hostry ground floor and Hostry first floor.
Those with impaired vision
Care is needed on the uneven floors (including some tombstones) and steps.
Large-print editions are available for ‘Discover Norwich Cathedral’ – an exciting trail around the building, written in partnership with ‘People First of Norfolk’.
Tactile tours can be arranged. Please contact Reception (01603 218300) for adults, or the Education Department (01603 218320) for schools.
Induction loops
Induction loops have been installed in the Weston Room in the Hostry Visitor & Education Centre, as well as in the Cathedral itself.
Groups
We can make special arrangements for disabled groups. Please apply in advance to Reception (01603 218300). Special Schools should apply in advance to the Education Department (01603 218320).
Holy Communion
Please inform one of the stewards or Vergers if you are unable to go up to the altar so that we can make special arrangements. The Vergers (01603 218325) can be contacted in advance.
Where to get help
In the Cathedral and precincts, staff and volunteers are identifiable by their badges- a black cross on a white background. Guides wear a green sash whilst on duty. Please contact a member of staff or a volunteer if you have any particular needs.
If you feel that any of the information in this section has not dealt with your special requirements we will be pleased to answer any queries or concerns that you may have. We are continuously looking to improve accessibility and facilities for people with special needs.