Thank you for booking a place on our Discovery Day in 2023.

Your Choices for Workshops, Tours and Talks

Please choose up to 5 workshops which you would like to do on the day – 3 workshops and 2 reserve choices.
Please select your preferred sessions in order of preference 1 to 5.

Please note:

• Not all workshops, tours or talks are available for every session.
• Those with limited numbers will be allocated on first come, first served basis.
• If, for some reason, your choice is not available on the day we will endeavour to substitute with one of your other choices.
• You will be given a personalised timetable on arrival.
• We suggest you make a note of your choices for your records.

You can see a full list of the descriptions of  the workshops, tours and talks below >>

Workshops, Tours and Talks

1. Buildings Archaeology Workshop
   Under the expert guiding hand of our main speaker Dr James Wright, and building on his talk, take a closer look at our historic buildings, share your observations and develop your knowledge and confidence. This is a fun way to start critically evaluating buildings. (session 1 only)
2. How to ‘Read’ the Minster
   Two of our Minster Guides take you on a journey of discovery, explaining the significance of church layout, construction, symbolism and messages within our beautiful building and its treasures. (Maximum 15 per session)
3. Meet the Embroidery Guild
   Our needlework tutor, Emma Frith, and members of the Minster Needlework Guild look  forward to welcoming you to their brand-new needlework studio in Trebeck Hall – the first time it has been open to the public. They will guide you through making these bold and bright lavender sachets with felt appliqué and simple embroidery stitches. All fabrics and tools are provided. All levels of experience, beginners welcome. (Maximum 8 per session)
4. Music / singing
   Guy Turner has been a Minster Lay Clerk (singer) for fifteen years and, in the song school, used daily by the choristers but not open to the public, he gives an insight into being part of a Cathedral Choir. Expect archaic terminology, amusing anecdotes and recordings of the choir in action.
5. High and Lofty
   Southwell Minster’s music department offer a rare chance to see our historic quire organ loft. Includes a demonstration of the organs by members of our Music Department with some unusual sights from the top of the pulpitum and some architectural peculiarities. (Group numbers limited. NB: Narrow flight of stone steps)
6. Tower Tours
   Get some spectacular views from clerestory level inside as well as from the top of the Minster (weather permitting) as you join our experienced guides for a climb up the central tower, visiting the ringing room and bell chamber on the way. (Maximum 15 per session. NB: approximately 200 spiral steps; dark narrow spaces; sensible shoes and head for heights needed)
7. Minster Treasures with the Vergers
   Guided by our team of Vergers, in the clergy vestry, not generally open to the public, have a close look at our silverware, precious textiles, valuable paintings and other special pieces not normally on public view. Learn about their history and use as well as the roles – past and present – of a verger. (4 steps to the Clergy Vestry)
8. Exploration of the Palace Gardens – Claire Connely, Head Gardener
   Join Head Gardener, Claire Connely, as she takes you on a tour of the Palace Gardens including the recently developed Paddock. As you roam the grounds, Claire will tell you all about the history, design and planting of the Palace Gardens and how the Leaves of the Southwell have been incorporated within them. (Sessions 1 and 2 only. NB: Uneven ground, possibly wet depending on weather)
9. Historic Library – Honorary Librarians
   A chance to visit and view some of the Minster’s treasured books and documents accompanied by one of our librarians. (Group numbers limited. NB: Includes Steep steps up to the Library)
10. Flower arranging with Flower Guild
    A talk, demonstration and ‘have a go’ session led by the Minster Flower Guild, whose spectacular creations adorn the Minster throughout the year. Materials provided (scissors / secateurs may be useful to bring). A fun activity for all levels of experience. (No extra charge, but a suggested of £5 donation towards the cost of flowers is invited)
11. Prebends, Property and Potwell Dyke
    In the company of the Minster’s Chief Officer Nigel Spraggins or Fund Raiser Ruth Massey, find out about the privileges and opportunities of being the custodian of beautiful landscapes and precious historic buildings. This gentle stroll takes in the Minster’s land and property including a Site of Importance to Nature Conservation (SINC), a scheduled monument where once stood a Roman Villa and Anglo Saxon burial ground, Bishop’s Manor, Sacrista Prebend and the houses of Vicar’s Court. (NB: 1.5km route with uneven ground, steps, paths)
12. Bible in 25 Minutes
    We often know the individual stories but how do they fit into the BIG picture? Canon Missioner, Paul Rattigan, takes you on a romp through the story of God’s people from beginning to end. Bring any awkward questions that you have about the Bible and talk to him about his role at the Cathedral. (session 1 only)

Please make your choices using the form above.

You can view the full programme for the day on the Discovery Day event page.