We do not use fluorescent or flashing lights within the ceremony, however cheering and clapping is encouraged. Every effort will be taken to meet the access requirements of anyone wishing to attend a graduation ceremony.

Please note: following a venue change to Bristol Beacon from July 2024, we are updating our access information for graduations. Please check this page for updates in 2024.

Submit a requirement

If you or your guests have any access requirements, or if you have any questions about accessibility, please contact the graduation team by the booking deadline. We cannot guarantee that the appropriate arrangements can be put in place for any requests received after the deadline.

Bristol Cathedral

On your graduation day you will visit three main areas. The venue is largely accessible, with level access to all three areas possible from outside the cathedral.

The Cloisters

This is where students will register their attendance and collect their graduation robes. Temporary ramps will be in place for the duration of the graduation ceremonies as there is a single step down and back up as well as two steps into the room where you collect your robes. Only students will need access to this area on the day.

The walk is approximately three minutes (150 yards) from the front of the Cathedral/Marquee to the cloisters entrance. Please note the route may have some uneven flooring and does require you to go up and down a slight hill. Members of staff will be on hand to assist with the route on the day should this be helpful.

Accessible parking

There is no available parking at the cathedral, however you can park all day in any on-street pay and display parking bay in the city of Bristol, free of charge, providing your badge is on display. The closest on street parking on Deanery Road is approximately 50 yards, or a one minute walk from the Cathedral however, please note this can get extremely busy around graduations.

For more information on where to park with a blue badge, please visit the Bristol City Council website

See graduation travel to find out more about carparks or other ways to travel to your graduation.

 

Accessible toilets

Accessible toilets and baby changing facilities are located at the end of the Cloisters at Bristol Cathedral. A radar key is not required to access these facilities. Level access is available from the outside of the building, when entering via the car park. Unfortunately, level access is not available from within the cathedral itself or via the back doors of the marquee.

Assistance animals

The cathedral is located on College Green so there is green space immediately outside the venue for them to use. Water is available at the cathedral also. If you or your guests will be bringing an assistance animal, please contact the graduation team so we can discuss your requirements. 

Hearing loop

Bristol Cathedral has a hearing loop fitted, so please contact the graduation team with your student number if you need it switched on for yourself or your guests. 

Screens and subtitles

Screens are located throughout the main cathedral to assist graduates and guests to view the ceremony. Subtitles will be available onscreen for the duration of the ceremony, excluding when names are read out as students cross the stage.

Sign language

A Bristish Sign Language (BSL) interpreter can be arranged for graduates of guests attending a ceremony. Please contact the graduation team with your student number if you would like us to arrange this so we can discuss any further requirements with you.

Further information

For more information about facilities, please visit the Bristol Cathedral website or contact the graduation team.

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