Welcome to Southwell Minster, the cathedral and parish church on this site for over 900 years, and today home to a worshipping, busy and active community; and serving a lively and growing diocese.

Many of our visitors are surprised to discover the Minster is next to this beautiful garden, in the grounds of the ruins of the Archbishop of York’s Palace. Southwell became a popular ‘stopping off’ place in medieval times, strategically positioned close to the Great North Road, the main highway from London to Scotland. And so, the town was important for kings, judges and bishops; for trade, business, holding law courts and maybe just taking a rest as well! We count Richard II, Cardinal Wolsey and Charles I among our numerous and notable guests.

For many of us, to stand on an ancient site like this gives a sense of perspective, especially in times of uncertainty and change. The Minster holds firm as a place of peace and prayer and inspiration and still today, as it has always done through the long centuries, embraces all who come with its welcome and tranquillity.

Here, with the signs and promise of an English Spring all around me – seeds and bulbs long buried in the dark, cold earth in winter – everything is bursting with new life.

A reminder which takes us to the very heart of the Christian faith. It is through the gloom and sorrow of Jesus Christ’s death on the cross, that God breaks through, giving hope and new life. On that that first Easter Day, Jesus appears to his disciples in a garden near his empty tomb and invites them to trust and love and follow his life-changing way.

We look forward to welcoming you to the Minster, whether your visit is ‘virtual’ through the website or in person, please ‘stop off’ and take time to be refreshed by this glorious place.

The Very Reverend Nicola Sullivan
Dean of Southwell