Description
Discover more about Portsmouth Cathedral on a tour of our 17th century tower, not regularly open to the public.
Are you ready to embark on a journey through time and scale new heights of discovery? Prepare to be transported back in time as you ascend the heights of one of our city's most iconic towers. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply seeking awe-inspiring views, this tour caters to all.
Join us on Sunday 20th September to learn more about the tower and the bells held within. The tours will be run at 1400-1450 or 1500-1550pm. Booking required for tour. Maximum number of attendees per tour is 15 people, please see our website to make a booking.
Tour Waiver
The route up the Tower to the Dome Room consists of the following levels and potential hazards:
35 steps to the Organ Gallery with fixed handrail.
41 spiral stone steps from the Organ Gallery to the Ringing Chamber with a hand rope.
19 to the Clock Room without handrail.
Access to the Belfry is via a narrow door and angled wooden ladder with approximately 10 steps directly from the clock room.
4 steep wooden stairs with a handrail on both sides.
Hatch with low beam next to it.
Narrow platform leads to a metal ladder of 11 rungs, protruding wooden beam at head level and with further narrow hatch above.
Wooden ladder with 19 steps and handrail on right.
Hatch to Dome Room.
Access to the Dome Room is via a wooden ladder to a gantry which overlooks the bells, the gantry has a wooden rail around it, with a further ladder to a hatch above which leads into the Dome Room.
The tour is not suitable for those with fear of confined spaces, height or with mobility or breathing or other related health issues.
The stairs are narrow, and it is essential you wear suitable clothing and footwear, to minimise risk of any accident caused while in this restricted non-public area which could arise due to the historical nature of the building.
Please note that the tour may not be suitable for those who are sensitive to loud noises, as the bells and associated ringing equipment may be heard at close proximity within the tower.
Only small items can be carried, larger items must be left at ground level. Both hands should be kept free from the Organ Gallery upwards.
The instructions of staff and volunteers must be followed at all times and anyone not following their instruction will be escorted back to the ground floor level.
The spaces in the tower are restricted space with equipment mounted on the floor around which care must be taken. The clock and bell mechanisms and apparatus should not be touched. No access to the exterior of the tower is permitted.
The Cathedral authorities have taken every reasonable step to ensure safety and a full risk assessment is in place which can be viewed on request.
Date & Time
Sept 20, 2026 2:00 pm-3:50 pm
Venue Details
Portsmouth Cathedral - Tour
High StreetPortsmouth, Hampshire PO1 2HA
