Scaffolding is now in place at Wells Cathedral as work begins to dismantle and restore its historic Grand Organ — following its final service on Tuesday, 6 January 2026.

More than 100 people attended a farewell event after the Epiphany Eucharist, with performances by the Director of Music Timothy Parsons, Assistant Director of Music, and the Organ Scholar. A reception was hosted by the Friends of Wells Cathedral, who have pledged over £2.2 million to the restoration.

A temporary organ has now been installed for use during the two-year project. All 5,000 pipes will be removed for repair or replacement, alongside a full overhaul of the organ's console, pedals and stops.

The instrument — last rebuilt by Harrison & Harrison in 1973 — is showing signs of major mechanical failure, prompting urgent action. A platform has been constructed around the organ and a compound set up in the North Transept for pipe storage.

Organists welcome long-awaited rebuild

Andrew Scott, Managing Director at Harrison & Harrison, said: "We are delighted to be entrusted with rebuilding the organ at Wells Cathedral, an instrument with a rich and distinguished history… It is a privilege for us to carry that story forward."

Director of Music Timothy Parsons called the project "transformative" and said: "We are greatly looking forward to working with the team from Harrison's as the project comes to life."

The Dean of Wells, The Very Revd Toby Wright, added: "The Grand Organ is not merely an instrument, but the living breath of Wells, binding past, present and future together in song… However, our work is not finished. We still need to raise a further £1 million to complete the refurbishment."

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To support the Grand Organ Appeal, visit wellfriends.org/grand-organ-appeal

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