Leicester Cathedral re-opened its doors to visitors and worshippers on Sunday 26 November 2023.

Doors opened at 10.00am for those attending the 10.30am Eucharist, with visitors welcomed from 12.30pm before ending the day with a Choral Evensong marking the re-opening at 3.30pm.

The reopening marks the culmination of the first phase of an ambitious and extensive £17 million renovation project made possible through the generous support of The National Lottery Heritage Fund and other donors.

The Leicester Cathedral Revealed project, which has been two years in the making, will unveil a transformed and revitalised Leicester Cathedral – with developments including a fully accessible and environmentally friendly heated limestone floor, and a stunning redecoration which enhances the natural beauty of the building's interior. The final phase of the project will see the opening of a Heritage and Learning Centre joined to the Cathedral in late summer 2024. It will house an interactive exhibition space, a dedicated learning and community area, as well as toilet facilities.

Robyn Llewellyn, Director, England, Midlands & East at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said:

"We are incredibly pleased by the re-opening of Leicester Cathedral, after a significant investment of over £6.3 million from The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Thanks to National Lottery players, visitors from far and wide will be able to visit the Cathedral and see the fantastic conservation work and improvements that have been undertaken. We are also looking forward to discovering the fascinating stories of the cathedral's history, along with the heritage of the city and its people in late summer 2024 when the Heritage Learning Centre is due to open.

Leicester has recently been chosen as one of our inaugural nine Heritage Places, part of our pioneering 10-year investment initiative. We believe that projects such as Leicester Cathedral Revealed and working at scale in an area can deliver profound impact for its local community, visitors and economy."

The Revd Canon Karen Rooms, Acting Dean of Leicester, said:

"We look forward to welcoming people to discover or rediscover our magnificent Cathedral. We have been able to create a space fit for our tens of thousands of visitors and worshippers – and for King Richard III. The support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund and other donors has allowed us to undertake this 'once in a century' redevelopment.

We chose the word 'revealed' for our project as it speaks to us of the industrial prosperity of the Victorian period – which the Cathedral reveals as a living story told in stone, fabric and glass. It tells of the pioneering spirit of reform – applauded by the church and exemplified by the Arts & Crafts movement. And it celebrates the convening power of the Cathedral – to reveal the Christian message and to promote compassion and peace in a city and county where all religions are respected.

We are restoring and renewing Leicester Cathedral so that it can be its very best as a place of worship, heritage, pilgrimage, hospitality, learning, sanctuary, and celebration."

The building is open as follows: Monday–Friday: 8.00am–6.00pm; Saturday: 9.00am–6.00pm; Sunday: 10.00am–4.30pm. Details of services can be seen below.

After re-opening on the feast day of Christ the King, the Cathedral will begin preparations for the Advent & Christmas season, Sing for Joy. More information on our special services, events, and more can be found on our website.

We are open!

Monday–Friday: 8.00am–6.00pm
Saturday: 9.00am–6.00pm
Sunday: 10.00am–4.30pm

Occasionally, there are special services or events which may affect our opening hours or restrict access to certain parts of the building. We will list these times on our website.

Daily Services

Monday
8.30am Morning Eucharist
5.30pm Evening Prayer/Choral Evensong

Tuesday–Friday
8.30am Morning Prayer
12.30pm Lunchtime Eucharist
5.30pm Evening Prayer/Choral Evensong

Saturday
9.30am Morning Prayer
5.30pm Evening Prayer

Sunday
10.30am Cathedral Eucharist
3.30pm Evening Prayer/Choral Evensong

Occasionally, there are special services or events which may affect our daily pattern of worship. For more information on our services, click here.

Can I see the Tomb of Richard III?

Yes, the Tomb is once again visible to the public. Please see our opening hours and closures page for any events that may affect access.

Where are the nearest toilets?

Our new toilet facilities won't be accessible until the new Heritage & Learning Centre is completed in late summer 2024. Until then, we will continue to have access to the facilities next door in St Martins House, along with food and refreshments in Café No:7.