Wells Cathedral organ restoration gets royal boost
By Laura Linham 24th Apr 2026
One of Wells Cathedral's best-known voices is still far from home, but its restoration has now received royal attention.
The Duke of Edinburgh visited Harrison & Harrison Ltd in Durham, where craftspeople are working on the cathedral's Grand Organ.
The historic instrument, which has nearly 4,000 pipes, is being restored as part of a £3.2 million project.
The Duke spent almost two hours with the specialist team carrying out the work.
He was joined during the visit by the Lord Lieutenant and the Mayor of Durham.
For Wells, the visit shines a national spotlight on a project that matters to cathedral worshippers, concert-goers, visitors and the wider city.
The Grand Organ is one of the cathedral's major historic attractions and has long been part of services, civic occasions and performances in the building.
Harrison & Harrison has maintained the instrument for more than 120 years.
The restoration is expected to continue until 2027, when the organ is due to return to Wells Cathedral.
The project has already received support, but fundraising is continuing through the Friends of Wells Cathedral Grand Organ Appeal.
When the organ returns, it will mark a major moment for the cathedral and for Wells.
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