Bishop of Guildford to join thrill seekers in Leap of Faith

Bishop of Guildford to join thrill seekers in a Leap of Faith to raise funds for Guildford Cathedral’s vital work

Guildford Cathedral is calling on adventurers to take part in its thrilling Daring Descent on Saturday 14 June 2025, an exciting fundraising event aimed at supporting the Cathedral’s vital upkeep and work.

Participants will climb the Cathedral’s spiral staircase, consisting of 249 steps, to a height of 160 feet, roughly the height of ten double-decker buses, where they will enjoy stunning panoramic views of Guildford before experiencing the thrill of abseiling back to the ground.

This unique event will feature 20 brave individuals, including Right Reverend Andrew Watson, the Bishop of Guildford, who will be raising funds for both Guildford Cathedral and the Bishop’s Communities Fund. The remaining participants will focus their fundraising efforts on the essential £3,500 it costs every day to keep the Cathedral’s doors open, supporting its operations, services, and community outreach.

“We are incredibly grateful to all who are participating in the Daring Descent to raise funds for the ongoing maintenance and mission of Guildford Cathedral,” said Nicola Pratt, Head of Development at Guildford Cathedral. “It costs £3,500 every day to keep our doors open, and these funds will ensure we can continue to serve our community, preserve our historic building, and offer a beautiful space of welcome, worship and culture.”

The Bishop of Guildford’s Communities Fund, for which Bishop Andrew is also raising money, gives grants to a variety of local which provide much needed support and outreach to some of the most disadvantaged and vulnerable people in our Diocese.

While 20 participants have already signed up, including Cathedral Staff and their families, Choristers, Congregation members and Diocese of Guildford Staff, Guildford Cathedral is encouraging even more thrill-seekers to join in and help raise much-needed funds for this beloved local landmark. Experience is not essential as instructions and full safety equipment will be provided by experts.

Get your camera at the ready as this experience will be worthy of posting on your social media! This is an experience to tick off the bucket list, all whilst raising vital funds for a good cause.

Whether a seasoned abseiler or a first timer, the Daring Descent promises an unforgettable experience for those taking part.

To sign up for the event or for more information, please contact Nicola Pratt, Head of Development at Guildford Cathedral on 01483 547884 [email protected]

For more information about our exhibitions, tours, and events, visit www.guildford-cathedral.org.

Guildford Cathedral is the newest Church of England Cathedral consecrated on a new site and the only Cathedral dedicated to the Holy Spirit. Known for its stunning architecture and vibrant community, it serves as a spiritual home and cultural landmark in Surrey.

When WWII halted the building process, leaving the Cathedral partially completed, fears arose that it might never be finished, and there were even talks of demolishing what had been built. In an incredible display of support, thousands of individual bricks were purchased by members of the public and community groups. Even Queen Elizabeth II participated, buying and signing a brick. These contributions marked the beginning of the journey of the “People’s Cathedral.

Today, Guildford Cathedral stands strong on Stag Hill, an instantly recognisable symbol of Guildford visible for miles around—a beacon of hope and a sign of homecoming. Inside, the Cathedral’s natural light highlights its open space, creating an atmosphere of stillness and peace. It serves not only as a place of worship but also as a vibrant venue for community events.

This remarkable building is a testament to what can be achieved when people pull together. From the passion and dedication that made its construction possible in the 20th century to the present day, Guildford Cathedral remains “Open to God, Open to All.”