Stonemasonry at the Cathedral
Worcester Cathedral is one of only eleven cathedrals in the country to have its own dedicated Stonemasonry Workshop and Stonemasonry team.
Our team is comprised of six full-time stonemasons committed to ensuring that the beautiful architecture is preserved and that the health of the building is secured for worshipers and visitors to enjoy now and in the future.
With over 900 years of historical stonework to look after, the team is kept incredibly busy! Working on a diverse range of projects, the team could be high up on the side of a turret replacing a worn-out merlon or in their workshop carving a new head-stop for a window arch.
Curious to know what a head-stop or merlon is? During normal operating times, you can book a tour to the works yard so you can see the masons in action.
Training
For over twenty years Darren Steele, our Master Mason and Works Manager, has endeavoured to care for the building and has devoted his efforts into the training of Apprentice Stonemasons. This was recognised in 2015 when he was only one of five in the country to be awarded the Master Craftsman's Certificate after being nominated by the Worshipful Company of Masons, one of the ancient Livery Companies of the City of London.
Our traditionally-based Apprenticeships can take 5 years to complete; they include in-house training, working and learning with the team on-site and study time to gain stonemasonry qualifications. We are proud to say that the Worcester Cathedral Workshop has become a sought-after location for bursary placements and apprenticeship training. The Cathedral, in association with the Cathedral’s Workshop Fellowship also puts forward post-apprentice stonemasons for a Foundation degree in Applied Historic Building Conservation and Repair. To find out more click here https://cwfcathedrals.co.uk/
It is our hope that this ancient craft and the skills to conserve and preserve the Cathedral are passed on from one generation to the next.
Tower Pinnacle Project
In the early hours of 27 November 2021, Storm Arwen tore a pinnacle from the Northeast corner of the Cathedral Tower.
The stone fell through the roof of the North Quire Aisle, damaging the 14th Century vaulted ceiling beneath.
The vaulting and the roof were repaired in 2022, but now the new pinnacle, which has been expertly designed and crafted by our talented team of stonemasons, is being put into place.
Find Out More & Support the Tower Pinnacle Project
Support Our Stonemasons
The Cathedral is in need of constant care and attention. Although some stones can and have lasted for 900 years time, weather and pollution continues to take its toll. We have endeavoured to look after our building but we always need support to fund our works phases. If you would like to help, we would be delighted to hear from you.
Make a Donation