Experience a kaleidoscope of bridal fashion that spans several centuries, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship and evolving trends that have defined one of the most memorable days in countless lives.
The exhibition explores how wedding gown styles and materials have changed over the centuries, and how their adaptions reveal as much about social history as fashion and fame.
Each one of the dresses on display has a story to tell and includes dresses specifically created for blockbuster movies, to replicas of gowns worn by royal brides.
A significant feature of the exhibition is a hand picked assortment of bridal veils from the collection at the Royal School of Needlework. The RSN was founded in 1872 to revive the beautiful art form of embroidery and they have worked on several wedding gowns including the dress worn by Catherine, Princess of Wales, in 2011.
Several of the dresses on display at the exhibition are on loan to the Cathedral with kind permission from Kevin Thornhill. His collection has taken around 40 years to acquire. It started with gowns from family and friends and now includes pieces donated from the UK, Canada and America. He has a number of gowns from notable designers and currently there are around 350 gowns in the collection, including copies of Royal Wedding gowns and the Royal family’s most famous tiaras.
Entry to the exhibition is included with your Cathedral visitor ticket or pass.
Opening Times
Monday – Saturday: 10am – 4pm
Sunday: 12pm – 3pm
Please check for any restrictions or changes to opening hours
Facilities
- Assistance dogs welcome
- Facilities for Disabled Guests
- wheelchair access
Accessibility Facilities
- Assistance dogs welcome
- Designated wheelchair public toilet
- Staff available to assist
