Carlisle Cathedral has announced that people will soon be allowed to bring their doings along with them for a visit.

While guide, therapy, and assistance dogs are already welcome in the Cathedral, and dogs have always been allowed on the grounds, it has extended the invitation to all well-behaved dogs.

Starting from Saturday, visitors can bring their dogs on a short lead into the Cathedral.

It’s hoped the new policy will make Carlisle Cathedral more accessible and welcoming to visitors.

Very Rev Jonathan Brewster, Dean of Carlisle, said: “Increasingly cathedrals are becoming more dog-friendly, and as the Cathedral for Cumbria and the Lake District, we wish to welcome all! We understand that dogs are part of the family too, so please feel free to bring them along on your day out exploring Carlisle.”

There are some caveats, such as only one dog per adult is permitted. Also, dogs are not allowed at services, on tours that go above ground level, in the Treasury or inside the Cathedral Café.

Dogs are welcome on the grounds and in the café’s outside seating area. A water bowl is available opposite the main door of the Cathedral.