COVENTRY Cathedral is set to reopen from Monday May 17 with the launch of two new arts exhibitions and a new ticketing system.
The Self-Portrait Prize 2021 from the Ruth Borchard Collection – the only art competition of its kind to focus exclusively on self-portraiture – will run until July 11, alongside Concrete Collar by photographer Tom Illsey, until June 30.
Illsey’s photography explores ‘the beauty and complexity of Coventry’s ring-road’.
Since the New Cathedral opened in 1962, it quickly became a major tourist attraction welcoming thousands of visitors each year to view the art and architecture within the Basil Spence Grade I listed building.
Following national guidance, the Cathedral will be introducing a free Exhibition and Entry ticketing system for guaranteed access to the New Cathedral, current exhibitions, regular services and other daily activities. To browse the Arts & Events programme click here.
Dean of Coventry, Very Rev’d John Witcombe said: “We are so pleased to be able to reopen fully for visitors on 17 May. After such a long break, we look forward to welcoming people from the City and further beyond to come and experience our two cathedrals and the stories we have to tell.
“We are excited to be working in partnership with the City of Culture Trust to present four exhibitions in the coming months.
“We have check in, social distancing and new ticketing arrangements in place, please do come and visit. As ever, the Cathedral is free to enter for individual visits, yet rely on donations to enable us to maintain this.
“And if you’ve always wanted come, but never made it, this is an ideal opportunity! We look forward to seeing you.”
Services take place throughout the day in the New Cathedral. If you wish to join a service during the normal opening times it is recommended you book a ticket. Service outside of these times are operating as normal and do not currently require a ticket. For a full schedule of regular and special services visit the Cathedral website here.
Visitors are required to wear face coverings, apart from those who are exempt. Safety measures will continue to be in place, more information regarding Covid safety measures can be found on the Cathedral website.
The Cathedral Ruins do not require a ticket for entry. Contact Coventry Cathedral for up-to-date information on education and school visits, access to the Blitz Museum, the Tower Climb and any other questions here.
OPENING TIMES:
10am to 4pm, Monday to Saturday
12.30pm to 3pm on Sundays
A number of walk-up tickets will be available on the day but the Cathedral recommends booking a free ticket online to avoid disappointment. Sunday services, and any other services outside of the above tourism hours will be open to all as usual.
