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The Narthex

Welcome to the Narthex!

The Narthex is the Cathedral of St John the Baptist’s new Heritage Lottery Funded visitor centre. It comprises an Education & Interpretation Gallery, a shop, a refectory with outdoor patio, a function hall, licensed bar and community garden. With level-access and excellent facilities, the Narthex is an ideal location to discover more about the Cathedral or just to relax in a beautiful and tranquil setting.

Do come and visit us soon!

For more information about the Narthex please contact: or call 01603 724381.

Why is it called the Narthex?

A narthex is a transition space, a preparation between the outside world and the special world of the House of God - the church or cathedral. Many churches have a narthex (most usually in the form of a large porch), and that is precisely what this building, the Narthex, seeks to be: an inroduction and an entrance - the "front door"

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