Access

• There are two ramps to gain access into the cathedral. One outside by the main entrance of the cathedral and another by the south door
• There is ramp access to the Gift Shop and Café
• There is stairless access to the grounds and buildings within the inner close (except for the Dean Garnier Garden)

• There are disabled toilets available within the cathedral located in the Fleury building & Café (these also include baby changing facilities) 

• In the Winchester area, disability toilets are available by Winchester Discovery Center (now the ARC) & Abbey Gardens 

• There is a stair lift within the north transept to improve accessibility around the cathedral. However, it is designed for standard wheelchairs and has a weight limit of 250kg (roughly 40 stone)
• There is also a lift within the Kings and Scribes exhibition which makes all 3 floors accessible

Update: Please note the lift in the Kings and Scribes exhibition  is currently out of action. We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause to your visit. 

• Those with blue badges can park in Colebrook street (which is roughly a 3 min walk away) 

The cathedral offers a variety of options to make the experience inclusive to all visitors. These include: 

• Maps and information leaflets which can be offered to those with hearing difficulties 
• A braille guide, in addition to our guided tours which includes general information and a braille map (this is located on the information desk) 

• A 3D display of the cathedral (‘touch and feel’ model) which allows those with visual difficulties to gain a sense of the cathedral architecture and layout (Also located by the information desk) 
• On request, the entrance desk is able to make visitors aware of events throughout the day that may affect visitors with disabilities such as Sensory Processing Disorder (i.e. planned fire alarm tests or organ practice) 
• You are welcome to borrow a wheelchair during your visit (subject to availability).

Due to the age and nature of the building, there are areas that are not considered accessible to those with physical disabilities. These include: 

• The Crypt that can only be accessed by stairs 
• The Fisherman’s & Guardian Angels chapels which both have a small step which may create a barrier to entrance 
•  The tower and roof tours which require a general standard of fitness and ability to climb 213 steps 

• Entry to the Dean Garnier Garden which is restricted by stairs  

Our Essential Companion scheme makes it simple to bring or companion with you, free of charge.

Just show the carer ID card when you are paying for your general admission, and your carer or companion won’t need to pay an entry fee when accompanying you on your visit.

If you don’t have a carer ID card, you can still bring a carer or companion free – the carer ID card just makes it quicker and simpler for you.

• You are very welcome to bring your ESA dog with you, we just ask that your ESA dog has a clear piece of working equipment (collar or harness) which notifies staff and other visitors that it is a working dog.