Image (optional): 

Families are challenged to discover the WOW factor at Gloucester Cathedral during October half term.

On Tuesday 27 and Wednesday 28 October from 10am to 4pm, the Cathedral is taking part in The Big Draw. Art and craft activities for the whole family will include drawing, collage and modelling in clay with help from volunteers from Gloucestershire Arts and Crafts Group. The Cathedral’s Artist in Residence, James Wright, will be on hand on Wednesday to give advice.

In medieval times, the big draw was Edward II. Thousands of pilgrims flocked to his tomb and the money they brought enabled the Abbey to build much of the glorious architecture we admire today, including the famous cloisters.

Families will be asked what their “big draw” is at Gloucester Cathedral today and mark the spot with a wooden WOW. They will then capture their favourite bit in a drawing, collage or sculpture.

The Big Draw sessions have been funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund which celebrates its 15th anniversary this year. The Heritage Lottery Fund contributed £40,000 to the restoration of Edward II’s tomb. Other funders were the Gloucestershire Environmental Trust and the Summerfield Trust and the project cost well in excess of £100,000.

Also during half term week from Monday 26th to Saturday 31st, from 10.30am to 4.00pm children can take part in the Eager Explorers trail. With the aid of a special rucksack containing binoculars, a torch, magnifying glass, compass, ruler, pencil and clipboard, intrepid young sleuths can delve into the hidden corners of the Cathedral. Younger children can take part in the Teddy Trail with Brother Edward Bear.
Up in the Gallery, families can try their hand at completing the giant stained-glass-window jigsaw featuring King Edward II, explore the Whispering Gallery and get up close to the Great East Window.