England is home to many stunning cathedrals, rich in history, architecture, and spiritual significance. Here are some of the most iconic cathedrals you should consider visiting as a tourist:

1. Canterbury Cathedral (Kent)

• Why visit? As one of the oldest and most famous Christian structures in England, Canterbury Cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It has been a pilgrimage destination since the murder of Archbishop Thomas Becket in 1170.
• Highlights: The towering Gothic architecture, medieval stained glass windows, and Becket’s shrine.
• Fun fact: It’s the headquarters of the Church of England and the Anglican Communion.

2. St. Paul’s Cathedral (London)

• Why visit? St. Paul’s is an iconic feature of the London skyline with its massive dome, which was designed by Sir Christopher Wren after the Great Fire of London in 1666.
• Highlights: Climbing to the Whispering Gallery and up to the Golden Gallery for stunning views of London. The cathedral is also known for hosting royal weddings and state funerals.
• Fun fact: It survived the Blitz during World War II and became a symbol of hope.

3. York Minster (York)

• Why visit? One of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Northern Europe, York Minster is famous for its grand design and spectacular stained glass windows, including the Great East Window, the largest expanse of medieval glass in the world.
• Highlights: The medieval stained glass, the crypt, and the climb to the central tower for panoramic views of York.
• Fun fact: The foundations of York Minster include Roman structures from the city’s history as a Roman fort.

4. Salisbury Cathedral (Wiltshire)

• Why visit? Known for having the tallest spire in Britain, Salisbury Cathedral is a masterpiece of Early English Gothic architecture. It also houses the best-preserved original copy of the Magna Carta.
• Highlights: The 123-meter spire, the historic Chapter House where the Magna Carta is displayed, and the cathedral’s lush grounds.
• Fun fact: The cathedral’s clock, installed in 1386, is the oldest working mechanical clock in the world.

5. Winchester Cathedral (Hampshire)

• Why visit? Winchester Cathedral is one of the longest cathedrals in Europe, with a history that stretches back over a thousand years. It’s a mix of architectural styles due to centuries of additions and restorations.
• Highlights: The Norman crypt, Jane Austen’s final resting place, and the Winchester Bible, one of the finest illuminated manuscripts.
• Fun fact: The cathedral has served as the backdrop for several films and TV shows, including The Da Vinci Code.

6. Durham Cathedral (Durham)

• Why visit? A UNESCO World Heritage site, Durham Cathedral is considered one of the finest examples of Norman architecture in Europe. It also holds the relics of St. Cuthbert, a significant figure in early Christianity in England.
• Highlights: The beautiful Romanesque architecture, the cloisters (featured in the Harry Potter films), and views from the central tower.
• Fun fact: It’s one of the few cathedrals to have remained largely unchanged since its completion in 1133.

7. Wells Cathedral (Somerset)

• Why visit? Wells Cathedral is renowned for its early Gothic architecture and its stunning West Front, which is covered in intricate medieval sculptures.
• Highlights: The scissor arches, which were added to support the central tower, the clock (one of the oldest in Europe), and the chapter house.
• Fun fact: Wells Cathedral has a unique set of steps known as the "Staircase to Heaven" that leads up to the chapter house.

8. Gloucester Cathedral (Gloucestershire)

• Why visit? Famous for its stunning fan-vaulted cloisters, Gloucester Cathedral has been a filming location for the Harry Potter series. It also has a rich history, dating back to the 11th century.
• Highlights: The cloisters, the tomb of King Edward II, and the Great East Window, one of the largest in the world.
• Fun fact: Gloucester Cathedral has the longest medieval nave in Britain.

9. Lincoln Cathedral (Lincolnshire)

• Why visit? Once the tallest building in the world, Lincoln Cathedral is a breathtaking example of Gothic architecture. It was used as a double for Westminster Abbey in The Da Vinci Code.
• Highlights: The soaring nave, the Dean’s Eye (a stunning stained-glass window), and views from the tower.
• Fun fact: It was the tallest building in the world for 238 years until its central spire collapsed in 1549.

These cathedrals are not just places of worship but also historical landmarks that offer an immersive experience into England’s rich heritage. They are well worth visiting whether you are drawn to their architecture, history, or spiritual significance.