I've lived in Bristol for eight years and Virginia has been here for four but we've never got round to visiting the Gothic masterpiece just 10 minutes from Lifestyle District HQ in Clifton, Bristol. We had a few hours to spare recently so decided to put that right.

I walk past Bristol Cathedral daily but have become immune to its beauty. Boy have I missed out! Originally founded more than 850 years ago, the building is an awe-inspiring structure. Everything about it is massive; from the high vaulted ceilings to the huge stained glassed windows through which light pours in from outside.

I've looked into it and Bristol Cathedral is apparently one of the finest examples of a 'hall church' which means the aisles are the same height as the choir. This explains why the windows are so big. Well done to the architect who opted for that design!

Among the statues, tombs and gargoyles we spotted a plaque dedicated to Mary Carpenter, the educational reformist who is linked to another of our favourite Bristol buildings, the Red Lodge Museum. There are also some amazing stained glass windows in the corridor that leads to the cathedral cafe including a rather magnificient depiction of Henry VIII.

Discovering the beauty of Bristol Cathedral after many years living so close to it is a perfect lesson in not ignoring the attractions on your doorstep!

Words: Dan - Pics: Virginia