St Edmundsbury Cathedral Abseil

The abseil takes places down the first half of the Cathedral tower of St Edmundsbury Cathedral. The decent is 80 feet long and it set 150 feet in the air.

Please report to the EACH gazebo in front of The cathedral on arrival. We will get you checked in and ready for the challenge!

There will be no designated parking for participants of the abseil; however, you can use our recommended car park for a small hourly fee – Ram Meadow, Cotton Ln, Bury St Edmunds, Bury Saint Edmunds IP33 1XT.

There are other carparks around the town which you are able to use. There are also public transport options and you can access the town via bus and train.

Rain and wind can cause issues when abseiling. The weather will be monitored on the day, if high winds/heavy rain do occur there is the possibility of a cancellation/postponement as participants safety is paramount.

Yes, the abseil is a popular event so in order to secure you time slot please register in advance at each.org.uk/support-us/events/st-edmundsbury-cathedral-abseil-2025

The minimum age is 16+ years to participate. Participants under the age of 18 require on the day supervision from a parent or guardian.

There is no maximum weight limit however the harnesses must fit correctly in order to participate. The maximum harness sizes are 60” for the waist and 34” for the leg. If you have a medical condition which may affect you abseiling please consult with your doctor prior to participating. 

You do not need any experience to participate. Our team of highly skilled instructors from Howard Adventure will ensure you are safely equipped with everything you need to make your abseil safe and enjoyable. You will be checked to ensure that your equipment is fitted correctly, during the ground training and by the safety supervisor prior to the descent.

It is important to note:

There is a requirement to protect the cathedral throughout the event. All participants will be required to maintain a steady speed of descent and no jumping will be possible during this abseil.

It is recommended that participants wear suitable clothing for the time of year and envisaged weather conditions, eg. items that provide protection to the body including the arms and legs. Trousers must be worn.  Clothing is to be secure with pockets fastened or emptied of any contents. Watches, rings and neck jewellery must be removed prior to the event. For footwear: boots, flat soled shoes or trainers that provide both grip and stability should be worn. Long hair must be tied back in a fashion as to allow the correct use of a helmet.

Yes! We would love for you to invite family and friends, to help cheer you on for this challenge. They will be directed on the day to where they can safely spectate. (Please note only instructors and participants are allowed at the top of the Cathedral building)

Everyone is at least a little bit scared as they take part in the event – it’s part of the thrill. When you’re on the roof, look straight ahead at the amazing views over Bury St Edmunds – don’t look down!

If you feel especially scared, please let our staff and volunteers know how you’re feeling – we’re there to help you feel as comfortable as possible as you take part.

Everyone worries that they are not going to raise enough, however, very few people actually have much difficulty once they get into the swing of fundraising. We have lots of materials and ideas to support you on our resources page, why not hold a cake sale at work or share your fundraising page with your friends, family and colleagues.

If you need more support please get in touch with the team on 01508 500895 or email [email protected].