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Would you like to visit us with your church? We warmly invite you and your parish to come to Christ Church and discover your Cathedral.

Parish pilgrims sit in the great hall having afternoon tea
Making a Parish Pilgrimage

Parish Pilgrimages are an exciting way for churches in the Diocese of Oxford to explore their Cathedral. During your visit, you’ll learn about the 1300-year history of worship on this site with the assistance of your friendly and informative Cathedral Guide, before sampling the delights of afternoon tea in our famous Great Hall. The day finishes with reserved seats at Choral Evensong, sung by our world-famous Cathedral Choir. 

People have visited this medieval church for over 800 years, ever since local pilgrims came here to pray at the shrine of St Frideswide, the patron saint of Oxford. As Parish Pilgrims, you and your church will follow in their footsteps. We hope to welcome you here soon!

 “Parish pilgrimages are a wonderful way to come out of your Church as a group and experience your Cathedral."

Revd Dr Laura Biron-Scott, Vicar of Holy Trinity, Headington Quarry

The usual programme for the day is as follows:

  • 3pm Arrive at Christ Church (Tom Gate entrance) for a guided tour of the Cathedral
  • 4.30pm Afternoon tea in the Great Hall
  • 5:15pm A talk, or a tour of the gardens
  • 6pm Choral Evensong
  • 7pm End of visit

Booking

See available dates and make your booking.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How much does it cost?

    There is no charge for the tour. The cost of afternoon tea ranges from £6 to £16 per person, depending on which food and drink options you choose when you confirm your booking.

  • What dates might be available?

    We host Parish Pilgrimages on week days in University term-time. For a full list of available dates, please visit our booking page by using the following link: See available dates

  • Do you offer parking?

    Unfortunately, parking is not available at Christ Church given our city centre location. The nearest Blue Badge parking spaces are right outside Tom Gate, with more opposite in Pembroke Square. Paid parking is available at Oxpens (OX1 1RQ) and the Westgate Shopping Centre (OX1 1TR), though we would recommend the Park and Ride schemes, which often prove the easiest way to travel into the city centre.

  • What accessibility information do I need to know?

    Step-free access to the Cathedral and the dining hall is available via Tom Gate, on St Aldates. Entrance to the Cloisters and Chapter House requires using several steps, but this is a small and optional part of the tour. If you have mobility requirements please contact us at cathedral@chch.ox.ac.uk to ensure we can further support you during your visit.