Leicester Cathedral is delighted to announce the completion of its highly anticipated Heritage & Learning Centre, a state-of-the-art extension designed to share the rich heritage of the Cathedral and engage visitors in new and exciting ways.
The centre will officially open to the public on Saturday 14 June 2025, marking a significant milestone in the Cathedral's history. Protecting the historic setting, it enables the building to function as a 21st century cultural space without compromising the sacred workings of a Church of England cathedral, in advance of its centenary year in 2027.
Facing Cathedral Gardens, the Heritage & Learning Centre features an immersive exhibition space, with curated collections that celebrate Leicester's history and the Cathedral's connection to wider religious and cultural narratives. From Roman and medieval artifacts to contemporary storytelling, visitors will have the opportunity to explore the city and county's past while contemplating the significance of faith, art, and heritage in today's world.
The new centre also offers a dynamic educational space to welcome schools and community groups. Through guided tours, lectures, and hands-on activities, the Heritage & Learning Centre will foster a deeper understanding of the Cathedral's legacy and provide meaningful learning experiences for all ages. Toilets, offices, and storage facilities are additional features.
The project, with long-term partners van Heyningen and Haward Architects, has been made possible with funding by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, along with many other generous funders and donors.
Members of the public are invited to experience this new chapter in the life of Leicester Cathedral. From 11.00am, ribbon cutting, free family activities, and musical performances will mark the occasion. The first 100 visitors on the day will receive a free gift bag and the first 50 National Lottery players to present a Lottery ticket will receive a complimentary copy of the new guidebook.
Speaking on the completion of the building phase, The Very Revd Karen Rooms, Dean of Leicester, said:
"The opening of the Heritage & Learning Centre is a transformative moment for Leicester Cathedral and prepares us for the next 100 years. We are thrilled to offer visitors a space where they can reflect on the Cathedral's enduring history, interact with its stories, and engage with learning opportunities that illuminate our shared heritage.
"This project has restored and renewed this ancient building, and helps us to balance the needs of our services and worship, cultural tourists, school visits, community events, pilgrims, and visitors.
"While the construction phase of the Leicester Cathedral Revealed project has finished, our work very much continues with a funded activity programme – sharing the histories and stories of a working church, celebrating creativity, and providing a welcoming space for all. This new building expresses our commitment to be a cathedral for everyone."
For more information about Leicester Cathedral and the Heritage & Learning Centre, please visit https://leicestercathedral.org