Gloucester stands out as a city filled with history, architecture, and stories that stretch back over a thousand years. Its compact size makes it easy to explore on foot, and the wealth of attractions means tours are a great way to dive deeper into its past and present. We particularly love the Gloucester Cathedral, especially its crypt tour, which reveals the hidden layers beneath the stone walls and offers a peek into Saxon times. For those interested in something a bit spookier, the ghost-themed walking tour takes you through the shadows of the city, sharing eerie tales and sightings. And if you’re after a broader overview, the Highlights Tour covers the cathedral’s most famous sights, including its Harry Potter filming locations. Each of these experiences offers a unique way to see Gloucester—and they’re all well-rated by visitors.
Below, we’ve rounded up the top three tours in Gloucester. Whether you want to explore history, enjoy a spooky story, or see the highlights, this list will help you make the most of your visit.
1. Gloucester Cathedral: Crypt Tour
At number one, the Gloucester Cathedral: Crypt Tour stands out for its intimate look at the earliest parts of the cathedral’s structure. This 25-minute tour takes you beneath the South Transept, where you’ll descend into the cathedral’s hidden crypts—some of the most atmospheric spots in the entire building. As you walk through, you’ll see remains of what is believed to be part of the original Saxon church, making this tour a must for history buffs and architecture lovers alike. The crypt offers a glimpse into over a thousand years of layered history, where stone walls whisper stories of monks, kings, and medieval life.
What makes this tour special is the chance to stand in one of Gloucester’s oldest spaces, far from the crowds and with a guide eager to share stories of its construction, the Saxon origins, and how the crypt has survived through centuries of change. Visitors consistently give it a high rating of 4.9 out of 5, praising its atmosphere and depth of history. The short duration makes it ideal if you’re tight on time but want a meaningful experience.
Bottom Line: If historical sites and underground spaces excite you, the crypt tour offers a compact but rich journey into Gloucester’s ancient past.
2. Gloucester: Ghost-Themed Guided Walking Tour
For those who enjoy a thrill, the Gloucester: Ghost-Themed Guided Walking Tour is a highlight. This 2.5-hour walk takes you through the city’s darker side, exploring haunted streets, old priories, and pubs with stories of paranormal activity. Starting from the city center, your guide shares hair-raising tales about ghosts, spirits, and the mysterious sightings that have been reported over the centuries. Among the sights visited are Greyfriars Priory, Gloucester Cathedral, and the Dick Whittington Pub, each with its own ghostly legend.
What sets this tour apart is the mix of history and supernatural stories, complemented by the guide’s personal paranormal experiences. The reviews consistently praise the engaging and passionate guides like Becky, who make the stories feel real. Priced at around $25.59, it’s a fun, interactive way to learn about Gloucester’s darker history while possibly feeling a little spooked. Many guests appreciate this tour as a memorable evening activity—one reviewer called it “great fun, very informative and interactive.”
Bottom Line: Perfect for fans of ghost stories and spooky history, this tour combines entertainment and education with a dash of ghostly mystery.
3. Gloucester Cathedral: Highlights Tour
Third on our list, the Gloucester Cathedral: Highlights Tour provides an in-depth look at the most famous parts of the cathedral in about 50 minutes. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour covers the stunning cloisters, which served as the filming location for the Hogwarts corridors in the Harry Potter movies, making it a must-see for fans. Visitors also learn about the tomb of King Edward II and the coronation of Henry III, giving insight into the cathedral’s significance in England’s royal history.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on the architectural evolution over 1,000 years and its access to the cathedral’s most iconic features. Guests often comment on the engaging narration and the magnificence of the building, which they find worth the 50-minute investment. The review mentions the “unexpected bonus” of the ‘Mars’ artwork, adding a modern touch to the historic setting.
Bottom Line: If you’re interested in history, royalty, and Harry Potter, this highlights tour offers a concise but comprehensive experience of Gloucester’s most impressive cathedral features.
How to Choose the Best Tour for You
Choosing the right tour depends on your interests, schedule, and budget. If you’re fascinated by history and architecture, the crypt tour and highlights tour are excellent choices, with the crypt offering a more intimate, underground experience and the highlights tour providing a broad overview. For paranormal enthusiasts or those looking for a fun evening outing, the ghost tour provides a lively, spooky perspective on Gloucester’s streets.
Think about how much time you want to spend—if you only have a short afternoon, the crypt tour packs a punch in just 25 minutes. For a more leisurely exploration, the highlights tour lasts around an hour and a half. Budget-wise, the ghost tour is quite affordable at around $25, while the others are similarly priced or included as part of a larger ticket.
Booking early is recommended, especially for the highlights tour and ghost walk, as they tend to fill up quickly during peak season. Check availability and start times in advance to ensure you get your preferred slot.
Final Thoughts
Gloucester offers a variety of ways to experience its history and stories. The crypt tour is perfect for history lovers craving an underground adventure, while the ghost tour adds a fun, spooky element not to be missed. For a quick but meaningful look at the cathedral’s most famous sights, the highlights tour is hard to beat.
For travelers interested in history, architecture, or ghost stories, these tours provide a well-rounded selection. If you’re visiting during the busy season, booking early will help secure your spot. Whichever you choose, each promises a memorable glimpse into Gloucester’s past—and a few stories you’ll be telling long after you leave.
Happy exploring!
