The Lantern Tower is located above the Crossing at the High Altar end of the Choir.

Lantern Towers are characterized by openwork or glazed upper sections designed to flood the interior with natural light, often positioned over the crossing of the nave and transepts.

Beyond functionality, lantern towers symbolize spiritual enlightenment, drawing on medieval design principles that integrated light as a metaphor for divine presence.

In the original plans for the cathedral drawn up by the English architect William Butterfield the lantern tower was the highest point at 42.67 metres.   In E.J. Woods’ revision of the design of the cathedral, the spires of the west front topped with crosses became the highest points at 51 metres. 

In 2020 the Lantern Tower received seismic strengthening as part of the ongoing conservation work of the cathedral. Steel rods and bands were inserted into the Lantern Tower to limit possible damage in the event of an earthquake.