Lincoln Cathedral

United Kingdom · Religious Institutions

‘I have always held and proposed against all comers to maintain that the Cathedral of Lincoln is out and out the most precious piece of architecture in the British Isles' - John Ruskin Its main purpose continues to be, as it has always been and will be, the daily round of prayer and worship of God. But this is more than what might be viewed as conventional organised religion, since the building and all that goes on inside it can speak to different people in different ways. It has down the centuries been populated by ordinary people who have built, maintained, worshipped, made music, celebrated, mourned and so many other things and activities. It is owned by no one and open to all. It welcomes over 200,000 visitors every year and is working with other destination partners in Visit Lincoln to welcome many more. It has: - a team of some thirty crafts men and women, including apprentices, who work full-time conserving the fabric of the building which dates from 1072, - a world class choir, - a Medieval and Wren library holding an eclectic collection of books and manuscripts, - a hospitality offering through a Refectory and the Cathedral Centre, including making available for special occasions the Chapter House and Nave. - a 1215 exemplar of Magna Carta normally on display at Lincoln Castle - a Shop providing corporate and other gifts It is supported by some four hundred volunteers.