Hereford Cathedral

Hereford Cathedral is the Anglican seat of the Bishop of Hereford, located in the city of Hereford in western England on a site used since the 7th century. It is known for its medieval treasures and long ecclesiastical history.

The building houses the late medieval Mappa Mundi, one of the largest surviving medieval world maps on a single sheet of vellum, and an early chained library with historic books and manuscripts. The cathedral nave, chapter area and clergy stalls are major interior highlights and the building contains medieval and later stained glass, tombs and carved stonework.

Construction spans Norman and Gothic periods - much of the fabric seen today dates from the 11th to the 14th centuries, with later modifications. The cathedral has served as the diocesan church and a center of worship, scholarship and local administration for centuries.

The cathedral stands in the centre of Hereford beside the River Wye and the cathedral close. It is the focal historic building in the city and is accessible on foot from the town centre.

• Mappa Mundi viewing: The Mappa Mundi is displayed in a dedicated gallery within the cathedral complex and is usually shown alongside other medieval manuscripts.
• Chained library access: The chained library contains early printed books and manuscripts and can be seen during museum opening hours; allow 30-45 minutes to view both library and map.

What to See #

• Mappa Mundi: Late 13th-century world map on a single sheet of vellum kept at the cathedral; displayed in a purpose-built gallery with explanatory panels about medieval geography and symbolism.
• Chained Library: One of the few surviving chained libraries in Britain containing early printed books and manuscripts; original fittings survive and some volumes date to the 15th and 16th centuries.
• Cathedral nave and chapter area: The central worship space of the cathedral with Norman and Gothic fabric, original screens and tombs; the nave and aisles form the core of visitor access and services.