Canterbury Cathedral Open Evening on Tuesday 7 October 2014.

The popular annual event is an opportunity for visitors from the local community and beyond to sample life behind the scenes at the Cathedral.

The event starts with Evensong sung by the Cathedral Choir at 17:30 and activities and displays run from 18:30 – 20:40.  The evening will finish with a special concert sung by the Cathedral choristers, followed by Compline at 21:00.

Cathedral explorers will have the opportunity to try their hand at a number of skilled crafts including applying gold leaf, carving stone, and brass rubbing.  Free guided and audio tours will be on offer and there will be visits to the private chapels, the Bell Tower, the organ loft, and the choir practice room.  Refreshments will be available in the Chapter House.

Remembering World War I will be at the centre of this year’s event; examples from the rich collections at the Cathedral Archives will be on display to tell the story of life in the Cathedral City between 1914 -1918.  The exhibition will feature manuscripts, photographs and patient records illustrating the Voluntary Aid Detachment hospitals; a series of documents relating to the War Work Depot; letters from soldiers from the front; the diary of a cavalry office and WWI pilot; artefacts relating to HMS Kent; details of how the casualties of the war were remembered, and the construction of the memorials in the Cathedral and in the City.  Activities for children will include making a remembrance poppy and lavender bag.

Lisa Emanuel, Cathedral spokesperson said “ This popular evening gives visitors the opportunity to see the Cathedral in a different light and there will be something for all the family to enjoy. The evening provides a fascinating opportunity to learn and sample the skilled craftsmanship that goes into preserving one of this country’s most iconic landmarks. Entry is free so why not take the opportunity to discover more about this ancient and beautiful World Heritage site”