Southwell Minster
A magnificent Minster showcasing stunning Romanesque and Gothic architecture, rich history, and unique exhibitions.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Southwell Minster
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magnificent Minster showcasing stunning Romanesque and Gothic architecture, rich history, and unique exhibitions.
"A gem steeped in history and architecture, with a poignant WW1 stained glass window and remarkable knitted exhibitions."
🎯 Plan for Exhibitions
Check for special events like 'The Longest Yarn' – they're incredibly detailed and popular!
🤝 Friendly Staff
Staff are knowledgeable and welcoming, happy to share insights about the Minster.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Chapter House
Southwell Minster
Admire the stunning Gothic architecture of this significant medieval space.
WW1 Soldiers Stained Glass
Southwell Minster
A poignant and heartbreaking window depicting local soldiers' stories from the war.
The Longest Yarn Exhibition
Southwell Minster
Incredible knitted scenes and life-size figures depicting wartime life.
Visually Impaired Stations of the Cross
Southwell Minster
Remarkable small sculptures designed to help the visually impaired understand Christ's last days.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Donations & Entry
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Plan for Exhibitions
Check for special events like 'The Longest Yarn' – they're incredibly detailed and popular!
🤝 Friendly Staff
Staff are knowledgeable and welcoming, happy to share insights about the Minster.
☕ Minster Cafe
Enjoy refreshments at the cafe located within the Minster grounds.
🚗 Parking Available
There's a car park opposite the Minster with no height barrier.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Plan for Exhibitions
Check for special events like 'The Longest Yarn' – they're incredibly detailed and popular!
🤝 Friendly Staff
Staff are knowledgeable and welcoming, happy to share insights about the Minster.
☕ Minster Cafe
Enjoy refreshments at the cafe located within the Minster grounds.
🚗 Parking Available
There's a car park opposite the Minster with no height barrier.
🛍️ Vintage Finds
Explore 'Love at First Sight Vintage' tucked away down an alley for unique treasures. +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Southwell Minster for its rich history, stunning architecture, and unique exhibitions like 'The Longest Yarn'. The stained glass and Stations of the Cross sculptures are highlighted as particularly moving. Staff are noted as friendly and knowledgeable, and the free entry with appreciated donations makes it accessible. Some visitors found queues for popular exhibitions to be long.
"A gem to visit when in the area. Steeped in history and architecture. The grounds are well maintained, and members of the church were pleasant and helpful.
The stained glass window of WW1 soldiers is a must-see and tells a heartbreaking and real story of locals going off to war.
Another unique feature is the small sculptures depicting the Stations of the Cross, designed to assist the visually impaired learn the story of Christ's last days. Remarkable."
Insight Services
"The Longest Yarn - Britain at War. Such an amazing knitting exhibition. Stunning knitted scenes in glass cabinets depicting events from the war. These scenes must take hours and hours to complete. There are also life size knitted soldiers/air crew/men & women accompanied by dedications to real life characters/relationship. All set within the beautiful surroundings of the Minster. There's a carpark opposite the Minster (no height barrier) and some road parking. Free entry to the Minster (donations appreciated). A book (£15) is also available. The Minster Cafe is within the grounds. Very well organised, most definitely worth visiting."
Polly Wainwright
"Cathedral and Parish Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary it is quite simply stunning.
Combined with a visit to the archbishops Palace next door they request a donation of £5 pp.
Do some research beforehand and you will not be disappointed 👌"
Andrew Clark
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Southwell Minster is located in Southwell, Nottinghamshire. If driving, there's a car park opposite the Minster with no height restrictions. For public transport, Nottingham City Transport operates services to Southwell from Nottingham city centre.
Yes, Southwell is often described as a very nice town in Nottinghamshire, perfect for a day out from the city.
Many visitors enjoy a leisurely stroll through the town, taking in the historic atmosphere and visiting local shops and cafes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Southwell Minster is free, but donations are highly appreciated to support its upkeep. Card machines are available for donations.
Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check the official Southwell Minster website before your visit.
Yes, you can visit the Archbishop's Palace next door. A donation of £5 per person is requested for entry.
While not explicitly mentioned in all sources, the knowledgeable staff are often available to provide information and insights.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the stunning Chapter House, the poignant WW1 soldiers stained glass window, the unique Stations of the Cross sculptures, and any special exhibitions like 'The Longest Yarn'.
The Minster is a historic building, but efforts have been made for accessibility. The 'Stations of the Cross' sculptures are specifically designed to assist the visually impaired.
It's an incredible, highly detailed exhibition featuring knitted scenes and life-size figures depicting wartime events. It requires significant time and effort to create.
Information on toilet facilities is not explicitly detailed in all reviews, but the presence of a cafe suggests amenities are likely available.
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but it's always good practice to be respectful of ongoing services and other visitors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Southwell offers several dining options. 'Sage' restaurant is praised for its quality seasonal dishes using local produce. 'The Little Brunette Bakery' is recommended for brunch.
Yes, there is a cafe located within the grounds of Southwell Minster, offering refreshments.
Sage restaurant in Southwell focuses on great quality seasonal dishes, often using local produce, and is considered one of the best in Nottinghamshire.
The Little Brunette Bakery is highly recommended for brunch in Nottinghamshire.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the stunning Gothic architecture of the Chapter House, the intricate details of the stained glass windows, and the unique knitted scenes of the 'Longest Yarn' exhibition. +1
While generally allowed for personal use, always be mindful of ongoing services and other visitors.
Morning light can be beautiful for capturing the exterior and interior details of the Minster.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the Minster, Southwell is a pleasant town for a stroll. Consider packing a picnic to enjoy on the grounds or finding a family-friendly cafe. The town's charm and the opportunity for unique finds in charity shops can also add to a family's day out.
🛍️ Budget Travelers & Thrifters
While entry to Southwell Minster is free, remember that donations are appreciated to help maintain this historic site.
💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Consider a stay at 'The Old Cinema', an Airbnb with a private hot tub terrace, perfect for a romantic night or weekend.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvels of Southwell Minster
The Minster also features remarkable stained glass windows, including a particularly moving one dedicated to WW1 soldiers, which tells a heartbreaking story of local sacrifice.
Beyond its primary religious function, Southwell Minster has become a venue for unique exhibitions. The 'Longest Yarn' exhibition, a massive undertaking of knitted scenes and figures depicting wartime life, has drawn significant attention and praise for its incredible detail and emotional impact.
Exploring Southwell: More Than Just the Minster
For those who enjoy unique shopping experiences, Southwell is a haven for charity shopping. TikTok creators often highlight their finds from local charity shops, showcasing everything from brand-new Rubik's Cube sets to designer jumpers at bargain prices.
Foodies will also find Southwell appealing. 'Sage' restaurant has garnered praise for its high-quality, seasonal dishes made with local produce, with some even calling it one of the best restaurants in Nottinghamshire.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit