British Cathedrals Embrace Summer Fun With Ferris Wheels, Labyrinths, And Sea Creatures ‌

Cathedral Square Wheel opens its gates in the historic grounds of Birmingham Cathedral, locally known as Pigeon Park, situated on Colmore Row. CATHEDRAL SQUARE WHEEL

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LONDON — How about a trip on a Ferris wheel, walk a labyrinth or rest under the stars? It’s summertime and British cathedrals took on a holiday atmosphere — complete with some unusual activities. You might even encounter creatures from the deep oceans or step back in time.

Such activities have become very much part of a British summer highlighting the way in which cathedrals have adopted innovative visitor engagement policies. Over the past few years, Norwich Cathedral hosted a “helter skelter” in the nave, enabling visitors to see its incredible ceiling in a new way, while St. Albans Cathedral has hosted graffiti artists.

None of these activities are treated as standalone events, but rather as part of a larger plan designed to encourage visitors to engage with wider concepts such as the environment and the community.

Church officials across the U.K. said holding such events throughout the summer is proving to be an ideal way to engage with wider audiences, especially people who might not otherwise have entered a cathedral. With many of the activities free or low cost, as well as ensuring side chapels are kept for quietness and prayer, it means that there is something for everyone.

Not everyone is able to enjoy a trip to the beach. The Anglican house of worship known as Lichfield Cathedral — located about 120 miles from London — set about bringing the beach to a totally landlocked area. Sand, deck chairs, children’s activities and even a magician appeared within its grounds the past few weeks.

As the cathedral’s Vicky Osborn explained, the concept is ideal for the cathedral engagement program.

“The beach offers hospitality – a place to relax and enjoy the company of others, hope — when people may not have the means to visit the seaside, healing — an opportunity to refresh and lift the spirits, holiness — a space for reflection and introduction to key themes of faith.”