Peterborough Cathedral’s “Crisis” Campaign hits £100,000

Historians from around the world have come out in support of Peterborough Cathedral’s Crisis Campaign with online fundraising  lectures.

Peterborough Cathedral’s “Crisis” Campaign hits 100k mark and historians rally to offer fundraiser lecture series on Katherine of Aragon’s legacy.

Peterborough Cathedral has announced the launch of the Katharine of Aragon Legacy Lectures, a weekend of online talks by leading historians, organised by Dr. Owen Emmerson in support of the Cathedral in Crisis Campaign.

Taking place on April 5th and 6th, 2025, this special event has been curated by Dr. Emmerson, in partnership with Tudor history expert Natalie Grueninger, to raise vital funds for Peterborough Cathedral.

The lectures will feature leading historians who will share their expertise and passion for history including: Professor Tracy Borman, Kate McCaffrey, Dr Nicola Tallis, Dr Johanna Strong, Natalie Grueininger, Gareth Russell, Alfred Hawkins and Dr Peter Stiffell, with more to be confirmed.

This online event offers a unique chance for history enthusiasts to support the preservation of one of England’s most iconic landmarks – home to Katherine’s tomb – which announced its funding“crisis” campaign two weeks ago.

The lectures will be a mix of live and pre-recorded sessions and will be available to view for 2 weeks post event. Each lecture has been kindly donated to raise money for the fundraising campaign.

Dr Emmerson said:

“It is an honour to lend my support to this incredibly worthy cause. Peterborough Cathedral is not only a place of enormous historical significance, but it is a vital hub for its community—a space where lives are celebrated, struggles shared, and hope renewed. I hope that collectively we can keep its doors open for generations to come”. 

Tickets are now available on Eventbrite.: Historians Supporting Peterborough Cathedral Tickets, Sat, Apr 5, 2025 at 9:00 AM | Eventbrite

And Peterborough Cathedral is thrilled to announce that its Crisis Campaign has reached a significant milestone of £100,000, marking a major step towards the £300,000 target needed for urgent repairs and essential costs.

This achievement comes thanks to the incredible generosity of local donors, supporters, and patrons who have stepped forward to help preserve this historic landmark for future generations.

The Cathedral’s Crisis Campaign was launched to address critical repair work and essential costs that will prevent the closure of the Cathedral on certain weekdays, ensuring that this iconic building can continue to serve the local community and remain a beacon of heritage and history. The campaign has gained considerable momentum, and the outpouring of support has been nothing short of inspiring.

“We are incredibly grateful to everyone who has contributed to the campaign so far,” said Paul Stainton, Head of Marketing and Communications.

“Reaching £100,000 is a significant milestone, but our journey doesn’t end here. We are truly honoured to have the support of so many people in the community and beyond who care about the future of this building. Their support and involvement will not only amplify our efforts but also draw much-needed attention to the importance of preserving our Cathedrals for future generations.”

The Cathedral has received widespread support from across the country, with many local businesses, community groups, and individuals rallying behind the cause.

To learn more about the Peterborough Cathedral Crisis Campaign and how you can contribute, visit: Chapter of Peterborough Cathedral fundraising & online donations | KindLink

With no regular funding from the Government, and limited funding from the Church Commissioners, our cathedrals survive or fall by their ability to find creative ways and partnerships to generate the income needed to fund, not just operational costs, but also the huge costs of repair and maintenance.

Only ten of our cathedrals, plus the two Royal Peculiars of Westminster Abbey and St George’s Chapel, Windsor, charge an entrance fee.

Despite that, all our cathedrals are free to enter for worship, for prayer and to light a candle, and no-one would ever be turned away.