WELLS Cathedral will introduce an admission charge for adult visitors from next month.

Those who wish to visit the cathedral will be asked to “contribute to the upkeep with an admission charge” of £14.

Wells Cathedral needs to raise £4,500 every day to cover running costs, and the admission charge will help “to maintain and care for Wells Cathedral and all it offers to the community for future generations”.

A message published on the Cathedral’s website explained Church of England sites “receive limited funding from the church and government and rely on donations, legacies, and grants as well as the income they can generate for themselves”.

The full message read: “It is our responsibility to maintain and care for Wells Cathedral and all it offers to the community for future generations.

“However, the Cathedrals of the Church of England receive limited funding from the church and government and rely on donations, legacies, and grants as well as the income they can generate for themselves.

“That means here at Wells we must raise £4,500 per day through our own endeavours and with the vital help of our visitors, congregation, and supporters.

“From Monday, April 22, 2024, this means we will ask adult tourism visitors to contribute to the upkeep with an admission charge.

“There will never be a charge for people who wish to come into the Cathedral to pray, attend a service, or light a candle; everyone is welcome.

“Under 18s will be free and details of the new Residents’ Pass and Parish Pass, which both allow barrier-free entry, will also be available here.”

Admission to the cathedral from Monday, April 22, 2024.

The website also includes details of admission prices.

Adults £14 with re-entry for 12 months from the date of purchase and includes a ground floor tour or audio tour, access to the new Undercroft Exhibition, and a specially designed Children’s Explorer Backpack.

Adults Reduced Price

£8.00 on Sundays and other select times with re-entry for 12-months from the date of purchase.

Admission is free for under 18s.

There will also be the new Residents’ Pass and Parish Pass, which both allow barrier-free entry.