After a few “where’s the rendezvous” shenanigans, we met our Guide, Patrick just inside Tom’s Tower.

We were there to see the Cathedral, that is hidden inside Christchurch College – but Patrick started by taking us to the Great Hall, introducing us en route to some stairs used in the Harry Potter films, the “Robert Peel Door” (“No Peel “ spelled out in nails on a door - you can read more about it here ) and some Alice in Wonderland inspirations – Fire Dogs with elongated necks, a window with “Wonderland” characters, a Christmas Tree with Playing Card decorations (and, later in the tour, the Cheshire Cat!).

Then into the Cathedral – A new window to admire; a memorial to Bishop George Bell (noteable for his part in WW2) – Shrine of St Frideswide, and much more besides; then out to the Cathedral Garden – also inspiring Wonderland and Looking Glass scenes.

Patrick was a wonderful guide, knowlegable and enthusiastic! He invited us back in 2024 or 2025 to do the stained glass tour, with the expection of one, or maybe two new windows installed in time for our next trip!