Norwich Cathedral: Through the glass - the colour of light

Every cathedral window tells a story. Many of our windows were commissioned to commemorate individuals, others are in honour of regiments who fought in various wars. The tour will include examples of different period styles and how they were made to fit within our Norman and Gothic architecture. Glass manufacture is not a new process. The ancient Egyptians had clear glass and the Romans developed coloured glass. In England we have glass remnants dating back to the seventh century. So much of the beautiful medieval glass which ornamented Norwich Cathedral, however, was destroyed following the Reformation and the Civil War. Puritans believed visual depictions of religion to be idolatrous and against the word of God. Consequently, the demand for windows of a religious nature ceased, and the knowledge and skills necessary to make the finest quality glass were lost. It wasn’t until the mid 18th century, nearly two centuries after the Reformation, that the medieval style of stained glass manufacture was re-discovered. A prime example of this is to be seen in our stunning West Window. On this tour you will see examples of medieval glass in the Erpingham Window, the oldest being 1330. And you will also be shown modern, 21st-century, glass made in the medieval way. The Trinity Windows showcase just how translucent and bright windows can be. Come and be bathed in colour.

Timings & Tours

Friday 12 September:

Tour 1030

Sunday 14 September:

Tour 1200

Location & directions

The Dean & Chapter of Norwich Cathedral, Chapter Office, 65 The Close, Norwich, Norfolk, NR1 4DH

Directions:

Meeting point and directions will be issued on booking

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:

Pre-booking required

Booking conditions:

If you can no longer fulfil your booking, please cancel this by emailing [email protected] to provide others with the opportunity to attend.

Booking contact name:

The Forum

Booking website:

https://norfolkhods.ticketsolve.com/

Booking opens:

27 Aug 2025 10:00 AM

Booking closes:

11 Sep 2025 03:00 PM

Accessibility details

Disabled parking must be pre-booked by telephoning 01603 218300. The organ may be playing during the Sunday tour

Additional information

Max no of people per tour:

15

Est. tour duration:

1 hour(s) 15 minute(s)

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