Pictures: My trip to the top of Hereford's most iconic building

It has been shut off to the public for the last two years due to Covid, but this weekend it’s reopening.

I was lucky enough to be given a tour to the top of Hereford Cathedral tower, days before its reopening on Saturday.

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I have a fascination with old buildings, and this felt like a perfect opportunity to learn a bit more about our cathedral while taking in some of the county's most amazing views.

All Saints Church and the Green Dragon Hotel from the top of Hereford Cathedral

They are absolutely sensational and show the city off in all it's glory, especially on a sunny day.

I was shown around by the cathedral's visitor and engagement officer Owen Towndrow.

First stop on my tour was the lantern gallery, which was about halfway up the spiral staircase to the top.

Once there, you can see the cathedral from an entirely different perspective and viewpoint.

The south transept from the Lantern gallery in Hereford Cathedral

Being shown around the tower on a walkway, I got a spectacular view of the nave, and the south transept from up above the choir and it was truly a stunning sight.

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Next stop on the tour is the bell-ringing chamber. If you are lucky enough to visit when the bells are chiming, you will certainly notice their presence and might want to cover your ears.

Also housed in the bell ringing chamber is a working timer that the bells still chime to, dating back to the 19th century.

Heading up to the top and the exertion of the walk up to the summit was rewarded with amazing 360-degree views of the city taking in landmarks including the river Wye, All Saints and St Peter's Church, the Town and the Shire Hall and many more.

St Peter's Church and the Town Hall from the top of Hereford Cathedral

But it's not just the city that the cathedral roof offers a great view of. On a clear day you can see over the whole county and far beyond to the Black Mountains and the Brecon Beacons and Wales in the west, to the Malvern Hills and Worcestershire in the east.

The only thing missing from the amazing views is the iconic cathedral itself.

Hereford Cathedral's tower tours return on Saturday, April 16. Tours cost £6 for adults, £5 for students and £3 for children under 16, and can be purchased on the day.