Marking a significant step forward in its conservation efforts, Gloucester Cathedral has been awarded a £250,000 grant for the next phase of its Great Cloister Project.
Gloucester Cathedral's Great Cloister is recognised across the world as the earliest example of fan vaulting – a pioneering architectural innovation which became a defining feature of English Gothic design – but is in desperate need of repair to protect its future, after decades of weathering and deterioration.
Built between 1351 and 1412, the cloisters are one of the cathedral's most celebrated features and have featured in a variety of film and television productions, most famously as Hogwarts in the first three Harry Potter movies, and attract over 300,000 visitors to the cathedral each year.
The Great Cloister Project is a 12-year programme which aims to protect and preserve the cloisters for future generations.
The £250,000 grant has been awarded by the Wolfson Foundation – an independent, London-based charity which focuses on research and education in science, health, heritage, humanities, and the arts – and will support the next phase of works to repair the medieval stonework, replace roof structures and conserve historic stained glass on East Walk.
Dean of Gloucester, the very reverend Andrew Zihni, said: 'We are incredibly grateful to the Wolfson Foundation for its generous support. This funding marks a significant milestone in securing the future of one of the world's most remarkable medieval buildings. The Great Cloister is not only a masterpiece of architecture but also a living and sacred space where people gather to worship, learn and connect.
'This investment enables us to protect that heritage while inspiring future generations through conservation, craftsmanship and public engagement.'
The project is also supporting a number of apprenticeships in heritage crafts and skills, including traditional stonemasonry, where apprentices can train with and work alongside the cathedral's renowned stonemasons.
The cathedral remains open throughout the restoration works, allowing visitors to see these skilled craftspeople at work, and take part in tours, demonstrations and learning activities.
Chief executive of the Wolfson Foundation, Paul Ramsbottom, added: 'It is a delight to be able to support the Great Cloister, one of the glories of medieval architecture. In addition to the wonders of the stonework and fan vaulting, the project also supports the ongoing development of vital conservation skills through the cathedral's imaginative apprenticeship and specialist training programmes.
'It will allow current and future generations to be inspired anew by this remarkable space.'
