Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Frequently Asked Questions – School Visits
We’ve answered the most common questions about planning and booking a school visit to Guildford Cathedral below. If you still have queries, we’re happy to help — just email schools@guildford-cathedral.org or call us on +44 (0)1483 547880.
📅 Do we need to book in advance?
Yes. All visits must be booked in advance, as the Cathedral is a working building and may be closed to groups during services or events.
We recommend booking at least one month ahead, or half a term in advance to secure your preferred date.
Visits are usually available Tuesdays to Thursdays, between 10.00am–12.30pm (half day) or 10.00am–2.30pm (full day). Other times may be possible by arrangement.
📝 How do we book?
Decide whether you'd like a School Workshop (on set dates) or a tailored School Visit. You can find our Contact Form here or email schools@guildford-cathedral.org.
We’ll aim to confirm your booking within 7–10 days, and send you additional information to help plan your visit.
📆 Can we choose our date? Can we book last-minute?
You’re welcome to request preferred dates, and we’ll do our best to accommodate you. However, dates book up quickly, so please plan ahead. Last-minute bookings may be possible, depending on availability — feel free to call and check.
🕰️ Why does booking take a little time to confirm?
As a busy place of worship and events, all school visits must be approved by our Diary Management Team. Please have two or three possible dates in mind when you contact us.
💷 What does it cost?
Visit our Prices page for the most up-to-date information on School Visits and Workshops.
💳 How do we pay?
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You’ll be invoiced after your visit (please don’t bring payment on the day).
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A non-refundable deposit is required when booking.
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Payment can be made by cheque (payable to Guildford Cathedral) or via bank transfer — contact us for details.
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Payment terms may vary for special events.
🔄 What if we need to cancel?
We understand plans change. Please give as much notice as possible. Cancellation charges apply as follows:
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Less than 2 weeks’ notice: 25% of visit cost
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Less than 1 week: 50%
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Less than 48 hours’ notice or no-show: 100%
We’ll always try to offer a new date if given enough notice.
🎒 What should we bring?
We provide all learning materials. Please bring:
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Packed lunches or snacks
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Suitable clothing
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First aid kit (with the group leader)
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Optional: cameras and small amount of spending money for the shop
🥪 Where can we eat lunch?
If arranged in advance, we can provide an indoor lunch space, though it may not fit a full class at once. Pupils may need to eat in shifts.
On sunny days, we recommend picnicking outside on the south side of the Cathedral, away from the road. Please take all rubbish with you.
🚻 What facilities are available?
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Toilets are located across the road by the main Cathedral Office
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A small souvenir shop is open for groups of up to 10 pupils at a time (with an adult). We can also bring a selection to you — please ask.
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Free parking is available onsite
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Please note: some areas have limited disabled access
🚌 Where do we go on arrival?
Coaches may drop pupils directly in front of the west doors at the front of the Cathedral. Parking is available around the side of the Cathedral green in a designated coach bay
Please enter through the west doors, where a team member will greet you.
If possible, please arrive with pupils already grouped for activities.
Running late? Please call us as soon as you can.
⏱️ How long can we stay?
Programmes are tailored to suit your learning objectives and group size.
Visits begin no earlier than 10.00am and end by 2.30pm.
If you'd like time for lunch or extra exploration, please mention this on your booking form so we can plan accordingly.
👀 Can I come for a pre-visit?
Yes — we encourage it! Please phone ahead to make sure no services or events are taking place during your intended visit.
If you’d like a member of the Schools Team to meet you, this must be arranged in advance (available Tues–Thurs, 9.00am–5.00pm).
👩🏫 What is expected of teachers and adults during the visit?
Teachers and accompanying adults are responsible for:
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Supervision and behaviour of pupils throughout the visit
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Providing first aid if required
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Supporting Cathedral staff during activities, especially in case of misbehaviour
While we lead workshops and guided sessions, your support helps ensure a smooth and respectful experience.
🙏 How should pupils behave in the Cathedral?
Please remind pupils that the Cathedral is a sacred space. We ask them to:
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Speak and behave respectfully
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Avoid running, shouting, or using mobile phones
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Refrain from eating or drinking inside
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Keep valuables with them
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Take photos (except in the Treasury)
⚠️ Are there any risks or hazards?
The Cathedral is generally low risk with appropriate behaviour. Please note:
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There may be lit candles in prayer areas
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Some artwork or sculptures may not be safe to touch
It is the group leader’s responsibility to complete a risk assessment. A template is available to download here, and we can provide the Cathedral’s internal risk assessment on request.
📚 Do I need to book even if we don’t need a guided visit?
Yes — all group visits must be booked in advance, even for self-guided visits. This helps us manage the building’s capacity and preserve its peaceful atmosphere.
Some days may be unavailable due to services or events.
💡 What if we want to do something different?
Just let us know! We're happy to adapt our programme or create something bespoke for your pupils.
Still have questions? We’re here to help. Contact the Schools Team at schools@guildford-cathedral.org or call +44 (0)1483 547880.