Katherine Swynford Tour

Please note that booking tours online is currently unavailable while we upgrade our system. Our new system will be operational by the end of the week commencing Monday 18 May. During this time, you can book tours by calling us at 01522 561 600 or visiting us in person. 

“Sorceress”, “She-devil and Enchantress”, “Unspeakable Concubine” “An adulterer and pursuer of luxury”. These are just some of the insults hurled at Katherine Swynford in the 1370s and 1380s.

Join us for an exclusive tour which takes you behind the scenes in the life of this enigmatic figure who captured the heart of one of the most powerful men in medieval England; John of Gaunt.

With exclusive access to Katherine’s home in the Cathedral close, which is now the Deanery, you’ll have the rare opportunity to see her private chapel, great hall and living quarters, as well as exploring the areas most closely associated with her in the Cathedral.

Katherine spent much of her life in Lincoln and eventually married John of Gaunt here in 1396. She bore John four illegitimate children and King Charles III is one of her descendants. When she died in 1403 she was buried close to the high altar in the Cathedral.

You can find out more about Katherine at - https://lincolncathedral.com/katherine-swynford/

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Please note, due to the nature of the historic buildings included in this tour, it is not fully accessible - it includes narrow staircases and very uneven floors. Please call 01522 561600 if you have questions about joining this tour.

The tour will last approximately 60 minutes.

Please arrive at least 10 minutes before the tour start time, and pay admission at our welcome desk and receive your tour information.

Places are limited on each tour so it is recommended that you book in advance to guarantee a place.

Please note that tours may be cancelled at the Cathedral’s discretion.

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