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York Minster Facts and Figures

York Minster is one of England's most popular attractions . More than two million people pass through it annually from all over the world. And no wonder why: This architectural and artistic masterpiece took more than 250 years to build. It is filled with unique and fantastic carvings and the greatest collection of intact, Medieval stained glass windows in the world.

Northern Europe's Biggest Gothic Cathedral

Its size is also fantastic.

• Length - 525 feet (160 meters) - That's 165 feet longer than an official, NFL football field. 
• Width - 249 feet (76 meters) - Slightly wider (by about 7 feet) than a UK soccer pitch.
• Height to vault - 88.5 feet (27 meters) - The interior of the main part of the cathedral is about the height of an 8-story building.
• West towers - At 184 feet each (56 meters), they are nearly as tall as a 17 story building. 
• Lantern tower - 233 feet (71 meters) is about the same as a 21 story building. It's a 275 step climb up a winding staircase to reach the highest spot in the city of York. At 16,000 metric tons, it weighs about the same as 40 jumbo jets.

As Northern Europe's largest consecrated Medieval Gothic space, York Minster is also one of the world's largest Medieval Gothic Cathedrals. Only Chartres, in the Loire region of France, is larger.

What Is a Minster? York Minster's 2,000 Years of History

Minster is a very old term for a collegial church, established as a community, to spread Christianity and Christian learning. Besides York Minster, only Westminster Abbey still retains this title, representing England's oldest type of ecclesiastical center. Its use in York is tied to this cathedral's long and complex history.

York Minster is, at the same time:

• A church where worship services are regularly held
• A cathedral, seat of the Archbishop of York

The Original Minster

Before construction even began on the current cathedral, around 1215, York was already a minster. It was built for the baptism of Anglo Saxon King Edwin of Northumbria, on Easter Sunday in 627. In order to marry the sister of the Christian King of Kent, Edwin, a Druid worshipper, agreed to convert. A wooden church, the first York Minster, was built for the occasion, and later replaced by a stone church.

About 1100, the Normans replaced that with a much larger church, which forms part of the foundation of the current York Minster.

An Earlier, Roman History

Constantine was proclaimed Emperor of the Western Roman Empire while in York—then called Eboracum. York had been an important Roman stronghold from about 70 A.D. and, between 208 and 211 A.D., the Emperor Septimus Severus ruled the entire Roman Empire from York.

In 313 A.D., Constantine proclaimed religious tolerance throughout the Roman Empire, later becoming the first Christian Emperor.

The proclamation of Constantine as Emperor may well have taken place in a Roman basilica that lies beneath York Minster. The basilica, part of the long established Roman settlement, was only discovered, along with the foundations of the Norman church, in 1967 during works to shore up the foundations of the Minster's Lantern Tower. These early finds are exhibited in the Undercroft.

Why Admission Charges? Isn't the Minster a Church?

Of course, York Minster is a place of Christian worship, and if you are there for religious services or to pray, entrance is free. But running the Minster, catering to the various needs of worshippers, sightseers, individuals, and school groups—up to 2 million people a year—plus maintaining the building's ancient fabric and providing for the occasional Anglican Synod—requires deep pockets and a hefty budget.

There's a staff of 150—including those working as carvers and stonemasons in York Minster's own stone yard, glaziers who look after York's amazing stained glass, 500 volunteers who need to be organized and trained, and even a police force of nine constables. The only other church to have its own police force is St. Peter's Basilica in Rome .

All of this, as you might imagine, costs a pretty penny. In fact, it costs York Minster more than:

• £10,000 per day
• £415 per hour
• £7 per minute

Amazingly, neither the UK government nor the Anglican Church contribute toward the maintenance of the beautiful and historically unique York Minster. That's why visitors have to. Reluctantly, in 2003, York Minster began charging entrance fees for non-worshippers.

Mistletoe on the High Altar

York Minster is the only Cathedral in the UK that puts mistletoe as well as holly on its high altar at Christmas . This ancient use of mistletoe, connected with Britain's Druid past, is also linked to York and the North of England.

In the North of England, mistletoe grows on lime, poplar, apple, and hawthorn trees. Druids believed it had the power to ward off evil spirits. They also used it as a sign of friendship—thus the custom of kissing under the mistletoe.

Because of mistletoe's connection with the Druids, the early church associated it with sinners and evil and banned mistletoe for use and display in churches.

But they have always been a pretty independent lot in York. Mistletoe at Christmas remained popular there after the Druids were long gone. For a while mistletoe was incorporated into a service of repentance and pardon. York Minster held a winter Mistletoe Service where York's miscreants and evil doers were invited to seek forgiveness.

Holding up a branch of mistletoe, the priest would declare, "public and universal liberty, pardon and freedom of all sorts of inferior and wicked people at the minster gates, and the gates of the city, towards the four quarters of heaven."

Today, the Mistletoe Service is no longer offered in quite that way. But a sprig of mistletoe still decorates the high altar during the holiday season as a reminder of ancient customs and the spirit of forgiveness.

York Minster's Tower

York Minster's Central Tower, also known as the Lantern Tower, is an amazing feat of 15th-century engineering. Built between 1407 and 1433, it stands more than 230 feet—the height of a 21-story building, and weighs 16,000 metric tonnes—the weight of 40 jumbo jets!

Anyone up to climbing the 275 steps to the top can enjoy close-up views of York Minster's pinnacles, gargoyles, and carvings.

Climbing to the highest point in York, by a wide margin, visitors at the top of the tower can see across the rooftops to make out the city's medieval lanes and snickleways. The view also takes in miles of countryside, extending, on a clear day, to the Yorkshire Wolds.

Children under 8 years old are not permitted to climb the Tower. Children under 16 years old can only climb accompanied by an adult. Groups of more than 10 children under 16 must be accompanied by at least three adults. Smaller groups of children can be accompanied by two adults.

The Rose Window—A Stained Glass Phoenix Rising From the Ashes

The Rose Window, a stained glass masterpiece high in the South Transept of York Minster, was nearly lost after lightning struck the Minster in the 1980s causing a severe fire in its wooden roof.

The stonework of the Rose Window was completed in the mid 13th century but the stained glass was added near the end of the 15th century to commemorate the end of the War of the Roses and honor the Tudor dynasty.

After fire destroyed the South Transept roof in 1984, inspection revealed that the stained glass in the Rose Window was severely cracked. The 73 panels, containing 7,000 pieces of stained glass had shattered into about 40,000 pieces! Miraculously it was all still in place.

Craftsmen secured the stained glass with adhesive film before removing it, one section at a time. Special adhesives—which would mimic the refractive properties of the glass—had to be researched and were specially developed by 3M Corporation before the window could be restored. Each restored section is sandwiched between layers of clear glass—the restorers jokingly refer to it as a Tudor sandwich—and the whole is further protected by more sheets of glass.

The stained glass restoration process, along with the restoration of the roof, took about four years and cost $4 million.

Polishing the Minster's Crown Jewels

York Minster's collection of Medieval stained glass windows is among the finest and rarest in the world. Most of the important windows, including the Great East Window and the Five Sisters still have their original, Medieval stained glass. Some of it dates from as early as 1270. More than half of all the stained glass in England is in York Minster.

The Great East Window was painted by a Medieval stained glass painter, John Thornton, between 1405 and 1408. One of the leading stained-glass craftsmen of his day, Thornton was paid about £56 for his three-year effort, in 1408. Some estimates suggest that the payment would be worth about £300,000 today. According to an article in the Yorkshire Post, the current cost of cleaning and restoring the Great East Window is about £6 million. The BBC reported that the job could take as long as 15 years. In 2015, after the windows hid behind scaffolding for 12 years, glaziers began returning the cleaned and protected glass to the 600-year-old stone framework. And in 2016, experts said it would be another three years before the restoration was complete.

Maintaining the Minster's amazing Medieval windows is a full-time job. There are 128 stained glass windows, containing about 2 million individual pieces of Medieval glass. Each window must be taken apart so that each piece of stained glass can be individually cleaned. Then the windows are reassembled and re-leaded. Each window is cleaned about once every 125 years.

The Chapter House—York Minster's Beautiful Octagonal Room

The beautiful and airy octagonal room is one of the oldest parts of the Minster. It was begun in 1260 and completed in 1286.

Created as a meeting place for the Dean and Chapter of York Minster, it is still used for the same purpose. Although the Minster is the seat of the Archbishop of York, its day-to-day running and most of its daily worship services are governed and organized by the Dean—a senior Anglican priest—and a six-member Chapter, today composed of three Clergy Canons and three Lay Canons appointed by the Archbishop.

The statutes that govern the Minster have changed very little since the first Norman minster was begun, in 1080 by Archbishop Thomas of Bayeux.

Each of the seven walls of the octagonal room known as the Chapter House has six seats to emphasize the equality of the Chapter members. No one can sit in the center. The eighth side of the octagonal room is the archway of a passage leading to the nave. There are also seven windows—among the oldest in York Minster, with Medieval stained glass dating from 1270. Above the archway on the eighth wall, the stonework of the seven windows is repeated.

The Chapter House Ceiling—A Medieval Engineering Marvel

Ferne Arfin

The Chapter House Ceiling is a complex wooden vaulted structure. Created at the end of the 13th century, the ceiling is unusual for its period in that it is a free vault, unsupported by a central column. The decorative medallion in the center is hand painted with red, blue, green, ivory and gilt. And the central boss (the medallion-like circle connecting the radiating ribs), which would have been barely visible from below, is an elaborate, vividly-painted design featuring a lamb and other Christian symbols.

York Minster Carvings—Unique Evidence of Each Stonemason's Personality

Some of the York Minster's finest, most interesting, and oldest carvings decorate the walls of the octagonal Chapter House. Most were made by individual craftsmen between 1270 and 1280. Their ideas and sense of humor are reflected in the characters and gargoyles depicted, ranging from drunkards and shrews to souls in torment.

York Minster still maintains a small staff of craftsmen, including stonemasons and glaziers, whose skill and artistry is the equal of their 13th-century predecessors. And they are still adding their own humorous touches to York Minster's carvings in secret places around the Minster. Among the carvings of the Great West Doorway, two tiny corbels, each about the size of a fingernail, are carved with the heads of a Klingon and a Ferengi—Star Trek characters.

Elsewhere in York Minster, children have had a chance to contribute imagery for the ages. After an electrical storm set fire to the roof of the South Transept, the British children's television show, Blue Peter, invited its audience to contribute designs for bosses (the connecting medallions that join the ribs in a vaulted ceiling) in the new ceiling. Six were selected and can be spotted by the eagle-eyed—or with binoculars—in the ceiling, about 88 feet above. One of them shows Neil Armstrong's first steps on the moon.

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York Minster

Top choice in York

York Minster is the largest medieval cathedral in northern Europe, and one of the world's most beautiful Gothic buildings. Seat of the archbishop of York, primate of England, it is second in importance only to Canterbury, seat of the primate of all England – the separate titles were created to settle a debate over the true centre of the English Church. Note that the quire, east end and undercroft close in preparation for evening service around the time of last admission.

The first church on this site was a wooden chapel built for the baptism of King Edwin of Northumbria on Easter Day 627; its location is marked in the crypt. This was replaced with a stone church built on the site of a Roman basilica, parts of which can be seen in the foundations. The first Norman minster was built in the 11th century and, again, you can see surviving fragments in the foundations and crypt.

The present minster, built mainly between 1220 and 1480, manages to encompass all the major stages of Gothic architectural development. The transepts (1220−55) were built in Early English style; the octagonal chapter house (1260−90) and nave (1291–1340) in the Decorated style; and the west towers, west front and central (or lantern) tower (1470−72) in Perpendicular style.

Don’t miss the undercroft (open 10am to 4.15pm Monday to Saturday, 1pm to 3pm Sunday), which houses an excellent interactive exhibition – York Minster Revealed – buried within the foundations, leading visitors through 2,000 years of history on the site of the cathedral, amid Roman and Norman remains. At the heart of York's cathedral is the massive tower , which is well worth climbing for the unparalleled views of York; it’s £5 extra for a ticket and a fairly claustrophobic climb of 275 steps.

Get In Touch

01904-557200

https://​www​.yorkminster​.org​/

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History Hit Story of England: Making of a Nation

York Minster

York, England, United Kingdom

Lily Johnson

26 jan 2021.

About York Minster

York Minster – officially known as The Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of St Peter in York – is a vast gothic cathedral that has towered over the historic city for hundreds of years, inspiring awe in its onlookers. One of the largest of its kind in northern Europe, York Minster is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore York’s medieval past, or simply take in one of the most beautiful religious buildings in the country.

York Minster history

The first church built on the site of York Minster was a small wooden structure completed in the 7th century for the baptism of the Anglo-Saxon monarch, King Edwin of Northumbria. From this era came the name ‘Minster’, a word used for ecclesiastic schooling institutions in the Anglo-Saxon period. A stone replacement soon followed, yet this was destroyed in a fire in 1069.

It was the Normans who began building the basis of the York Minster that exists today. Begun in 1080 and completed in 1100, a vast cathedral building was constructed, the remnants of which can still be viewed below the Minster today.

Over the following centuries York Minster was enlarged and renovated, with much of the work instigated by Archbishop Walter Gray. By 1472 the striking Minster was complete, with the addition of the north and south transepts, the nave, the Lady Chapel, the Quire and the western towers. The collapsed central tower was also rebuilt, yet had to be supported once again in the 20th century!

Since these major works, York Minster has remained largely the same, making it an authentic example of stunning medieval architecture.

The Minster today

Today York Minster is the crown jewel of historic York. In addition to admiring its beautiful architecture and imposing proportions, guests can visit the undercroft to see ancient Roman and Norman ruins, and climb the 275 steps of the central tower for great views of the city.

The Minster’s stained glass windows are also a marvel, with work dating from the 12th century, and a stunning collection of carved stone statues dating from the 15th century depict England’s monarchs from William the Conqueror to Henry VI . Crypts of long-passed warriors, priests and noblemen provide an atmospheric walk around the cathedral, in if you’re lucky you may hear the Minster choir at practice!

As well as individual passes, there are various types of guided tours available (mostly for group booking) including a free guided tour of up to 1.5 hours which details the history of York Minster.

Getting to the Minster

York Minster is located in the centre of York, and is a 10-minute walk from the train station. Bus services run to nearby Museum Street, a 5-minute walk away, and there are on-street parking bays in the vicinity. Due to visitor numbers however, other carparks in the city may be advisable, such as the nearby Bootham Row. York also operates various Park and Ride services into the centre.

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Free-City-Guides.com

Independent Advice for your city break

It’s described as “one of the world’s greatest cathedrals” and when you visit, it certainly has the wow factor! Building began on the current church in 1220 but was not declared complete until 1472. There are lots of features to look out for. The stained glass windows are particularly impressive, as are the carvings on the choir screen. We also enjoyed sitting in the octagonal chapter house. For an extra fee you can take a tower tour up the central tower for great views of York. There is free entry to the Minster with the York City Pass .

We took one of the many guided tours that are included with your admission ticket and we’d recommend you do the same.  Without the tour, you just get to wander around and since little is labelled, you’ll probably feel the admission price is a bit of a rip-off. However, with the tour, you get a brilliant insight into the history of the Minster, its notable features and how it continues to be a busy working church today. The guided tours are available at 10am, 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm and 3pm and last approximately one hour.  If you haven’t got time for the tour,  don’t miss the Chapter House, at the rear of the building which was completed in 1290.

If you want a terrific view of York, we’d recommend the Tower Tours too. These are at set times, roughly every 45 minutes and apart from the view, you’ll see some of the intricate stonework of the Minster close up.

York Minster is open Monday to Saturday from 9am (9.30am November- March) to 5pm and on Sunday from 12 noon to 5.00pm. There is no sightseeing on Good Friday and Easter Sunday or on Sundays before 12.00 noon. There are also occasions when York Minster is open for services only. Adult admission to the Minster is £9 but if you want to climb the central tower a combined ticket is available at £14 (2012 prices). Children under 16 are free as part of a family group.

Free entry is allowed to the Minster for services. Also, if you just want to have a quick look inside, you can enter through the ticket doors and inside there is a small area before the ticket desk where you can take in the expanse of the interior. If you then decide you don’t want to buy a ticket, you can leave through the revolving door.

LOCATION & CONTACT

Address: York Minster, c/o Church House, Ogleforth, York, YO1 7JN Tel: 0844 939 0011 (within the UK) Email: [email protected]

MORE ON YORK MINSTER

York Minster – Official website York Minster – Wikipedia Hop-on, Hop-off Bus Tour  – Stops at major locations in York VisitYork.org  – Official York Tourism Website York Pass  – Free entry to York’s attractions Rough Guide To Yorkshire  – Amazon.co.uk Yorkshire Travel Guides  – Amazon.com (USA)

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Why You Need to Visit the Beautiful York Minster in York England

No visit to York, England is complete without a visit to the York Minster.

A minster is simply a large and important church, typically a cathedral, in England and was often built as part of a monastery.

The York Minster is definitely worthy of your time.

In fact, it really is one of the best things to do in York .

So let’s start with the where so you know first, where York is.

Then specifically where you can find the minster within the city of York.

Where is York and the York Minster

York is a city located in the northeast of England in the historic county of Yorkshire.

You can get to York by train from London in about 2 hours, so it can be a day trip.

But York has a lot to offer so do stay a few nights.

The York Minster is not quite in the very center of the historic center but a bit to the northeast. 

You really can’t miss it as it is well posted as are many of the other sites in York.

Why do I need to visit this grand cathedral?

Great question.

Here are a few reasons why I think it’s worthy of your time.

There has been a church on this site since about 625

That is a long time.

Now the current iteration was started in about 1080 and took about 400 years to become what you see today.

But there are records talking about a wooden church on this site in 625.

So obviously this site has a lot of history even if the exact building wans’t on it back in 625.

That says a lot.

The architecture is spectacular

I love architecture — especially old architecture.

You know, ancient Roman or Greek, Renaissance, Gothic, Georgian, Romanesque.

I’m not a fan of most modern works, to be honest.

So this Gothic cathedral is one that I really appreciate.

York Minster is actually the 2nd largest Gothic cathedral in Northern Europe.

It is very impressive.

Those high, arching ceilings?

I was so enamored with the ceilings that are so simple yet so beautiful with their clean lines and the little bit of decoration.

They have a geometrical thing going on that I really like.

So if you are a fan of Gothic architecture, you’ll love York Minster. 

Follow My Adventures

Join me on facebook, the stained glass windows.

There are a lot of gorgeous stained glass windows in York Minster.

And some of the windows date back to the 12th century.

The windows tell the stories of the city of York, the county of Yorkshire and the Christian faith through the years.

These windows are incredible works of art.

Both the Great West window and the Great East window are worth spending some time looking at.

And do take note of the Five Sisters Window.

This window was restored and rededicated to the women of WWI between 1923 and 1925. 

It’s the only memorial in the country dedicated to all the women of the British Empire who died during WWI.

So it’s pretty special.

But all the stained glass windows are spectacular so do take some time with them.

Epic fail on my part in that I didn’t go underneath the main church to the crypt or the Undercroft Museum (see below).

However, if you’re a regular reader of this blog, you know I love York, that it is one of my favorite cities and that I really want to go back.

So next time I will be sure to check this out.

There are actually 2 crypts underneath the York Minster.

The western one was actually discovered following a fire in 1829 and brought back into use.

It’s here that you’ll find the tomb of St William of York, the only saint to be buried at the minster.

He was canonized in 1227.

While visiting a crypt might sound a bit creepy, I find crypts are always interesting places to learn about who was important to a people so do be sure to check it out.

Don’t miss it like I did!

The Undercroft Museum

I missed this too but don’t be like me.

This museum looks fabulous!

It houses 2000 years of history and it’s the only accredited museum in a cathedral in the country.

You’ll find the remains of Roman barracks, see York’s Viking connection and gaze upon artifacts that have never been on public display.

The museum is also interactive which I find makes the experience more enjoyable.

There is also an impressive library and archives that I believe you can see by appointment only.

I had no idea all this was in the York Minster.

When I travel to York again I will be sure to spend more time at the York Minster.

There is so much here!

Central Tower

Another epic fail on my part was not going up the central tower.

It’s the highest point in the city and you can climb the 275 steps up it (it is an additional fee)  and take in the views of York which I hear are splendid.

Going up towers is always a highlight, in my opinion, as long as you can make the climb and don’t have a fear of heights.

I’ll definitely do this next time.

I think I missed some of the above parts of the Minster because I was so focused on not missing Evensong.

What is Evensong?

I talked about this in the post on the Salisbury Cathedral if you want to read about another amazing English cathedral.

But Evensong is a short, religious ceremony that is focused on song — which is sung by the choir.

And it is surreal, ethereal, amazing and moving. 

I highly recommend getting in the queue to be present at this ceremony.

Only a small number of people are allowed into the choir area where you’ll be seated.

As I said, it is a short religious ceremony but you certainly don’t have to be a religious person to appreciate it.

I’m not religious and I simply love Evensong.

Typically Evensong takes place late afternoon, around 4 or 5pm and, as I said, the choir are the stars.

To hear these beautiful voices melding together in an old, stunning cathedral is quite moving. 

Do plan your visit to York Minster around Evensong.

It is so worth it!

Final thoughts on York Minster

This is a highlight of the city of York without a doubt.

I know I will wander through it again.

This time I won’t miss all the great things underneath it nor going up in the tower.

And I’ll stay for Evensong.

I really can’t recommend York and the York Minster enough for your travels to England.

If you’ve been to York and the cathedral, I’d love to hear what you think.

Leave a comment below.

Please note that Wander Your Way does not recommend international travel at this time due to the current global health situation with the COVID-19 pandemic. Although some countries are beginning to open, it is complicated.

If you do decide to travel internationally, please do your research or use a travel planning service such as  Wander Your Way .  Please stay up to date using official sources like the  WHO  and  CDC .

I  am continuing to write about incredible destinations and to offer tips on travel to Europe, so that you will find some solace in these posts — so you dream about travel and learn about places. And hopefully make that bucket list! This way when we can all fully travel again, you’ll be ready to go. For now, stay close to home and stay safe!

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18 Incredible York Minster Facts

Full of beauty, history and with plenty of stories to tell – you’re never going to believe these incredible york minster facts..

The icon of the city, you can’t visit York and not venture inside York Minster. It may be beautiful on the outside, but this cathedral is even more breathtaking on the inside. Constructed between 1230 and 1472, it’s one of the best examples in the world of Gothic architecture.

With over 2,000 years of history to explore, from roots in the Roman Empire to connections to Blue Peter, it’s a building with plenty of interesting tales. Once inside you’ll be immersed in a world of ancient clocks, spooky apparitions, tragic fires and numerous restoration attempts.

With its tower taking the trophy for the tallest point in the city, it’s a somewhere to visit for the views alone. There’s also the octagonal Chapter House – another amazing example of English gothic architecture, with its vaulted ceiling and intricate carvings.

It’s time to take you on a whistle-stop fact finding tour of York Minster. Listening carefully? These could come in handy for a pub quiz soon!

1. York Minster is the largest gothic cathedral in northern Europe.

Seville Cathedral is the largest in Europe, but York Minster takes the trophy for being the biggest in northern Europe. It’s famed for its incredible gothic architecture, with work starting in the 1200s and not finishing until the 1470s.

The cathedral is 160m long, 76m wide and the tallest tower stands at an impressive height of 71m.

2. The Lantern Tower is the tallest landmark in York.

York Minster’s impressive tower is 233 feet tall (71m), making it the tallest spot in the entire city of York.  Once you reach the top, you’ll be able to see the cathedral’s impressive gargoyles and carvings up close.

You can buy a ticket to enter the Minster only, or a combined ticket which admits you to the Minster and the Lantern Tower. It’s a steep climb up 275 steps, but the panoramic views from the top are absolutely incredible. It’s a photographer’s dream!

It’s worth noting that there is only one route up and down, so you’ll be booked onto a time slot and make the climb as a group. If you’re claustrophobic, don’t like heights, or have little kids, I’d avoid it! Find out more about climbing the Lantern Tower here .

3. This cathedral’s medieval stained glass windows are record breakers!

The Great East Window dates back to the 1400s, and is the largest window in the world which showcases medieval stained glass work. Take time to admire it in all its glory!

4. In the 1980s, York Minster was struck by lightning, which started a fire.

Early in the morning of 9th July 1984, York Minster suffered a serious fire in its south transept. It’s thought that the building was struck by lightning, starting a fire in the roof, which later collapsed. The heat even cracked the beautiful fragments of glass in the Rose Window, but miraculously it stayed intact.

5. This wasn’t the first York Minster fire.

Tragically, York Minster has several tales of terrible fires in its history. There was a fire in 741, which destroyed the original structure. A newer, Norman cathedral was damaged in 1137, then another fire in 1840 devastated the roof.

6. Some of York Minster’s bosses (ceiling carvings) were designed by kids as part of a Blue Peter competition!

After the fire in the 1980s, the children’s TV programme Blue Peter ran a competition for kids to design carvings, which would appear on the new ceiling. There were over 30,000 submissions, and six were selected. They included an image of an astronaut on a moon, a whale and a diver, and the Mary Rose. It was seen as a nice way to incorporate some modern elements to the historic building.

7. York Minster isn’t the cathedral’s official name.

Even York’s residents might not be aware the cathedral has another name! Its official name is the Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of St Peter in York. Wow your buddies at a pub quiz with that expert knowledge.

8. ‘Minster’ is an Anglo-Saxon name for a settlement of clergy involved in daily prayer.

We don’t hear it in relation to churches today much, but the term ‘minster’ was a lot more common in Anglo-Saxon period. The word ‘cathedral’ was used after the Norman Conquest in the 11th Century. There are a few other famous minsters around though, including Southwell Minster and, most famous of all, Westminster.

9. The cathedral is rumoured to be haunted.

With so many years of history under its belt, it’s hardly surprising to hear of a few ghostly goings on inside the cathedral. One tale is that a man in naval clothing approached a lady as she walked through the cathedral, and whispered something to her. She later revealed that it was her brother who had died at sea, returning to tell her about the after-life.

There’s another spooky apparition who has been spotted sitting in the pews, thought to be a man named Dean Gale who died in 1702, at the age of 26. York is reckoned to be one of the most haunted cities in Europe, so beware!

10. It costs a whopping £15,000 per day to keep York Minster open to the public.

Imagine the heating, lighting and staff costs for a huge architectural masterpiece like this. There’s an admission fee to enter the cathedral as a visitor, and an additional cost to climb the tower. However, you can enter for free if you’re attending a service, praying, lighting candles or you’re a resident of York.

11. You can hear a choir singing in York Minster every single day.

Cathedrals are famed for their beautiful music, and York Minster is no different. Each evening during term time, the evensong service features music by the choir from the Minster School.

12. In 2005, Dr. John Sentamu became the first Archbishop in the Church of England from a black or minority ethnic group.

He was enthroned as the Archbishop of York and leads several services at the cathedral, as well as heading up the twelve dioceses in the northern province of the Church of England.

13. The cathedral’s beautiful Great West Window is nicknamed the Heart of Yorkshire.

Rumour has it, any couple that kisses underneath it will stay together forever. How cute is that?

14. York Minster has 12 bells, but they were silent on Christmas Day 2017, for the first time in 600 years.

Locals are used to hearing the York Minster bells ringing out across the city, but they fell silent for a year after a controversial dismissal of 30 campanologists (bell-ringers). 40 applications were received and a new team were instated to take over the duties.

15. York Minster is home to a few unique clocks.

Head to the north transept and you’ll see a large astronomical clock which charts the movement of the stars and sun around York itself. The clock was designed to commemorate men from the RAF who fought during WWII. If you spend time looking at it, you’ll notice the clock is shown from the perspective of a pilot flying over the building.

There’s also a 400-year-old mechanical clock close by, which shows two knights striking the quarter hours by striking each other.

16. York Minster is home to the only memorial in the country dedicated to all women of the British Empire who lost their lives during the First World War.

Don’t miss a visit to the Five Sisters Window, which is made up of five panels containing over 100,000 tiny pieces. It was restored after donations by over 30,000 people and the names of 1,513 women who lost their lives were inscribed on oak screens in St Nicholas’s Chapel.

17. The cathedral has its own police force.

York Minster’s police force was established in the 13th Century, and is one of just a few cathedrals in the world to have its own set of constables. In addition to patrolling the cathedral and its grounds, they sort out any problems, give first aid and keep a beady eye on CCTV.

18. If you attend a service at the cathedral anytime soon, you might not hear the York Minster organ.

York Minster’s Grand Organ dates back to the early 1830s and is currently undergoing a £2m refurbishment. Work has been done on the 5,403 pipes, which has included cleaning, replacing anything that’s beyond repair, as well as repainting. In the meantime, the cathedral has a spectacular grand piano to accompany key services.

If you’re planning a trip to York, have an amazing time. I hope you’ve enjoyed these York Minster facts too. Don’t forget you can plan your visit here .

If you’re looking for other travel inspiration, don’t forget to see where else we’d recommend in England , Scotland and Wales .

Who’s ready for some more fun facts?

If you’re looking for some recommendations, these are a few of our favourite fact books to buy. We use these when planning fun quiz nights with family and friends. They’re also great for entertaining the kids too!

• Interesting Facts for Curious Minds
• 1,144 Random, Interesting & Fun Facts You Need To Know
• The Intriguingly Interesting Book of 555 Fascinating Facts

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England ❁ Travel ❁ Travel Destinations

Things to Do and See at York Minster Cathedral

December 15, 2019

I usually hate the words "simply must," in a blog post. But if you go to York you simply must visit York Minster Cathedral. Here are some things to do and see at this wonderful medieval gem that is my personal favorite of the cathedrals I've had an opportunity to visit.

My final morning in York, I headed out early as the sun peeked out after  a few cold rainy days. I wanted to beat the daytime crowds that assembled in town during that holiday weekend. Walking near York Minster to give it one final “goodbye,” I found myself playing “get-in-the-way” with a couple also trying to take photos.

He had been embarrassing his significant other in an attempt to sound English but then, suddenly, exclaimed in a  very  American accent, “THIS is a CATHEDRAL!!! We have churches in Atlanta, but…THIS? It’s a CATHEDRAL!”

I share his enthusiasm for visiting York Minster Cathedral. It  is  a CATHEDRAL at its best. Perhaps some of my interest in  this  particular cathedral stems from my fandom for Susanna Clarke’s 2004 Hugo Award winner  Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell   . York Minster features prominently in an early chapter of the book, and I can see where its many heads and carved kings would inspire fantasies about what they might say if only they could speak!

During my time in York, I spent a significant amount of my visiting York Minster Cathedral and walking around under its magnificent ceilings. Read on for some things to do when you’re visiting York Minster cathedral.

A Bit of History

The present-day Minster, which was built between 1220 and 1472 (( Click here  for a timeline on the York Minster website.)) stands on the remains of its predecessors, as old churches often do. York Minster (official name: “Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of St Peter in York,”) stands on the remains of an older stone church that stood on the remains of a wooden church that stood on the remains of a Roman fortress.

York Minster is the seat of the church in the North.

Visiting York Minster: Tickets and Tours

If you want to visit York Minster, you can purchase  advance online tickets,  or you can try to buy tickets at the door. The  York Pass    also includes admission to the Minster as well as other local attractions.

Check the calendar in advance. On some days, the cathedral is reserved for worship services. If you’re attending a worship service, like  Evensong , there’s no charge.

If you want more information on the cathedral than a self-tour might provide, you can sign up for a  walking tour of York    that includes the Minster. Still, I’d recommend signing up for the  hidden minster tour that consists of a visit to the chapter house roof — a part of York Minster you can only access by guided tour.

Visiting the York Minster Chapter House

The York Minster Chapter house should probably get its own post. 

The York Minster Chapter House  started construction in 1260 and was finished by 1296 . Religious assemblies were called chapters . The York Minster chapter, from what I understand, still meets here today.

Here’s more about some aspects of one of my favorite parts of York Minster cathedral:

The York Minster Chapter House Ceiling

The York Minster chapter house has a freestanding, octagonal ceiling — that is, there is no central pillar holding it up. Surrounded by intricate stained glass windows, it’s an impressive work in itself.

The Carved Heads of the York Minster Chapter House

The chapter house, which dates from 1260, is, by far, my favorite part of the cathedral. It’s a circular, freestanding space, with a magnificent ceiling and ringed with (why I love it) quite expressive carved heads.

There are animals, everyday people, people pulling faces. Ordinary people like the merchant and his wife peer out from the pillars. One happy man smirks with a surprised lion atop his head. An eagle is pecking out the eye of another, less fortunate, man.  One article  suggests that the figures represent virtues and vices. I like to think that many of these figures are people that the stone carvers knew and loved (or didn’t.)

Visiting the York Minster Chapter House Roof: Hidden Minster Tours

When the opportunity to climb up in a cathedral presents itself, I take it. The only way to climb here is to take the  hidden Minster tour that includes the chapter house roof  (there’s also a new hidden minster tour for the crypt which, unfortunately, I wasn’t able to take.)

The roof of the chapter house is a pitched timber roof, so with York Minster’s history of fires, you can be sure they’re always on guard for fire hazard here. The beams here are impressive — it’s hard to take a picture that does it justice due to its scale and low lighting.

The tour also includes a visit to the stonemason’s loft and tracing floor, where the stonemasons would trace their designs to display to clients. The loft also includes a collection of old cutting patterns.

Visit the Kings of England at the York Minster Kings’ Screen

The choir screen — the screen separating the choir from the nave — at York Minster is unique. Fifteen carved, stone kings grace the screen.  We have a separate post just about this part of the cathedral, with a close-up photo of each king. We wrote a post about this, specific part of the cathedral here.

View Some Spectacular and Well-Preserved Medieval Stained Glass

York Minster is home to the oldest intact stained glass and the largest expanse of stained glass ( the recently restored Great East Window ) in the UK.

The Great West and East windows are magnificent. But stained glass abounds throughout the cathedral from the five sisters’ window (not pictured) to the windows surrounding the circular chapter house.

I wish I could have spent more time examining individual windows at the cathedral. However, there are plenty of reading resources about the  stained glass of York Minster.    The  Great East Window   , which depicts scenes from Genesis through the Apocalypse, has inspired the most study.

Attend Evensong

Even if, like me, you’re not a churchgoer, you might find yourself moved by attending Evensong. After a long journey to York, sitting quietly and listening to the choir in the evening offered a space for quiet contemplation. Below is a sample of music from York Minster Evensong from Soundcloud. I was a good girl and, as they asked, did not record the service myself while I was there. The  Choir of York Minster offers plenty of their recordings on CD.   There is no charge to enter the minister to attend an evensong service. 

View the King’s Book of York Heroes and the York Gospels at York Minster’s Undercroft Museum

If you love beautifully bound books or medieval manuscripts, these are a must-see. The undercroft museum at the Minster houses these as well as other artifacts including a carved Viking horn.

The  King’s Book of York Heroes  is a memorial to those fallen in the Great War (WWI). Only the exterior was on display, but it says that 1441 names, biographies, and photos are recorded in this vast tome, beautifully bound in carved oak.

My notes failed here, but I believe this is a photo of the  York Gospel,  housed at York Minster, a 1000-year-old, leatherbound, illuminated manuscript.

Visit the Crypt and Various Burials in the Cathedral

The crypt at York Minster has a unique design with columns and arched ceilings. Despite all of my other photos, I somehow failed to take photos of the crypt area. But you can get an idea of what the York Minster crypt is like  here .

Of course, old cathedrals serve double-duty as cemeteries, and you’ll find other memorials and tomb effigies here, as you will at other English churches.

Interested in Visiting York Minster Cathedral? Here are some related resources.

• York Minster website
• Viator tours that (may) include visiting York Minster Cathedral 
• Read more about the  history of York Minster,  including its history of fires on the History of York website.
• Books about York Minster 
• You can buy replicas of some of the chapter house heads at the  York Minster shop .
• York Minster art, maps, and items on Etsy. 
• Take a  York Minster virtual tour  on VRYork.

You might also be interested in...

Cathedrals ❁ Churches ❁ England ❁ Europe ❁ Medieval ❁ UK ❁ United Kingdom ❁ York ❁ York Minster ❁ York Minster Cathedral ❁ Yorkshire

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I LOVE the carved heads in the cathedral! It’s such a stunning Cathedral. I absolutely love York but it’s quite a busy city! Looks like you had a blast!

I had a great time — very cold and rainy when I was there, but I was prepared! And, yes…very busy. I was there over a bank holiday weekend and it seems everyone goes to York to party.

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York Minster Tower: How To Visit & Is It Worth The Climb?

York Minster is one of the most iconic sights in the English city of York, with the massive Central York Minster Tower at its heart. An authentic medieval masterpiece, the tower at York Minster is an instantly recognisable symbol of the city, and climbing it is highlighted in any guide to the best things to do in York .

But what should you expect when visiting York Minster Tower? Are the views from the top really that interesting? Is it worth your time, money and effort to attempt the climb to the top of York Minster Central Tower? Let’s take a look!

Grey Globetrotters Travel Blog contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. See my  disclaimer  for more information.

A Brief History of the Central York Minster Tower

York Minster (the Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of Saint Peter in York) is an Anglican cathedral dating back to 627. Construction of the current Gothic building, including the massive central tower, started in 1215 and was completed in 1405.

The tower collapsed in 1407, but work to rebuild it with reinforced piers started in 1420. This coincided with the construction of the twin Western towers, which house the Minster’s 36 bells. The Minster was consecrated in 1472.

York Minster escaped destruction by King Henry VIII during the Dissolution of the Monasteries (1536-1541) but has been damaged many times over the years through fire, looting and siege!

A 1967 survey revealed that the tower was close to collapse, and remedial works to reinforce the tower and cathedral foundations were completed in 1972.

There are many reasons to visit and take on the York Minster Tower challenge, including stepping into medieval history, getting incredible views, achieving a personal challenge, and discovering fabulous photo opportunities from the highest point in the city of York.

The central tower stands 235 feet (72 m) tall, and you can climb all the way to the top. The wide-reaching views from the top and from various points on the way up are incredible.

Climbing The York Minster Central Tower

The tower at York Minster has 276 steep, narrow and winding (mostly) stone steps.

There are a few places where you can pause to catch your breath, but long sections of the climb offer no places to stop. You will hold up other people if you need to pause, as there is no room to pass on the narrow steps.

Tip : If you’re a slower climber, let the fitter/faster people in your timeslot sprint up the steps ahead of you, so you don’t need to worry about taking your time. It’s what I did 🙂

On the way up, you’ll pass all sorts of tiny doors that lead into private areas of the Minster, and then will reach a pathway that takes you outside and across the roof.

From here, you can look down to the city below and get a bird’s eye view of gargoyles, tiny “Rapunzel-like” towers and flying buttresses, before continuing your climb up the central tower.

When you reach the top of the tower, you’ll be standing at the highest point in York, on a huge square the size of a tennis court! From every side of the square. you can see a different view of the city through the parapet, with far-reaching views across Yorkshire on clear days.

Tip: Book your tower tour so you’ll be at the top of the tower when the bells ring in the Western Towers (on the hour).

Is Climbing York Minster Tower Worth It?

Are you wondering if whether the time and cost of visiting the tower at York Minster is worth it, or should you skip this activity on your visit to York?

I love the history and atmosphere of York Minster, and climbing the tower is a great add-on to get a different perspective of the Minster and the city.

The climb is challenging unless you’re very fit, with limited things to see for much of the time, although the section across the roof is fascinating, and it’s tempting to linger here. Once you’re at the top of the tower, the views are fabulous, and you get a great panorama, although smaller kids might need to be lifted up to see everything fully.

My son loved the tower climb as a teenager – probably more from a physical achievement perspective, but he did rate the whole experience as “good”. High praise from a teen 🤣

If you only have one day in York, I’d probably skip this activity, but I highly recommend it if you visit for a few days.

Can You Enjoy the Tower Without Climbing It?

Yes. From outside the building, you can get a great idea of the tower’s size and admire the intricate stonework of medieval masons.

York Minster Tower with Kids

To join the tower tour, children must be 8 years old and above and capable of climbing (and descending) the 275 steps unaided.

If you have active kids, they will love the climb and will enjoy the markers that point out how many steps you have climbed. My son was fascinated by all the ancient graffiti carved into the stone walls on the way up.

Parts of the climb take you outside, onto the roof of York Minster. It’s the perfect place for your kids to get a closer look at stone gargoyles, intricate architecture and beautiful windows.

My son also loved peering down at the “ant-sized” people far below, but the path is very high up and narrow, so you’ll need to be careful!

At the top of the tower, information panels point out the major landmarks in the city and beyond. It’s fun to look at these with your kids and then look over the city to spot the landmarks together.

Practical Info

York Minster Tower tour times: Tower Trips run regularly throughout the day, from 10:15 am until – 3:30 pm, subject to availability.

Admission price: The tower tour is £6; however, you will also need an entrance ticket for York Mimster, which is £12.50. Click  HERE  to book a combined York Minster and Central Tower ticket, but note that you can only book your tower tour on the day you plan to vist.

Tip: Admission to York Minster is included in the York Pass . It’s worth considering if you want to visit at least three museums and/or attractions while you’re visiting York, as it will offer significant savings compared to buying tickets individually 🙂

How much time do you need ? It’s worth allowing yourself between 45 minutes and an hour for the York Minster Tower Challenge.

It took me just over ten minutes to climb to the top of the tower, with a few stops on the way to catch my breath and take photos. It can take much longer if you get stuck behind a “slowcoach”, as the steps are very narrow, with only a few “passing places”.

Most people spend 15-20 minutes at the top of the tower, catching their breath (!), enjoying the views and snapping photos before taking the stairs back down. You have to be very careful on the descent , so it’s likely to take at least five minutes to descend.

Accessibility: The York Minster Tower is not accessible for people with limited mobility, breathing problems, heart problems or high blood pressure. It’s also not suitable for children aged 8 and under.

Facilities: There are free lavatories in York Minster, in the North Quire Aisle. While there is no cafe within the Minster, plenty of coffee shops are nearby.

READ ALSO: The Best Things To Do In York

More travel inspiration for Yorkshire:

• Best Christmas Markets in Yorkshire
• Best Castle Hotels in Yorkshire
• Top Things To Do in Leeds & Where To Stay in Leeds
• Best Things To Do in Harrogate & Where To Stay in Harrogate
• Best Things to Do in Knaresborough
• Yorkshire Bucket List

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it for later and share it with your friends! If you’re on Pinterest, you can click the image below to save it 🙂

Coralie Thornton, the owner and author of Grey Globetrotters, has been a traveller for more than four decades. Her passion for adventure has led her through over 40 countries, seeking cultural experiences, delicious foods, and hidden gems. Today, she helps others experience the UK, Europe, Egypt and China, with meticulously crafted travel itineraries and affordable luxury travel guides.

One Day In York Itinerary – Top Things To Do In York, England

Many will argue that you haven’t truly experienced England until you’ve moved away from London, and the town of York will give you plenty of reasons to get away from the capital city and explore. The rich history and some truly beautiful pieces of architecture combine fabulously with some very nice restaurants, and the place has that quintessentially English vibe that enchants visitors and makes them want to come back again. But since you only have one day in York, you have to plan it well. Or you can just follow this itinerary to explore all the most important sights the town has to offer.

What’s the best time to visit York, England?

As is the case with pretty much all of England, the best time to visit York is probably summer because the temperatures usually don’t go as high as for example in the Mediterranean at that time of year. However, do keep in mind that summer months are quite wet, and rain is fairly common. Because of that May and September also might be good times to visit York – they are relatively warm, but with much less precipitation.

However, you may want to schedule your one day in York in accordance with one of the numerous fun festivals there. The Roman Festival starts in June and celebrates the city’s founding by ancient Romans which means you can find people dressed like Romans everywhere. Jorvik Viking Festival in February is incredibly popular too, and foodies will not want to miss the Food Festival in September, the largest food festival in the UK! Those are just the beginning, though, and you will find something interesting, whenever you come!

A few facts about York

The city started out under the name of Eboracum, as it was founded by ancient Romans in 71 AD. Today, it is one of 51 cities in England with slightly more than 200,000 people and incredibly rich history.

Don’t let the names around here confuse you – what are called bars are actually medieval gates, but the word “gates” in York denotes streets.

York has the longest city walls in England!

Plenty of bars to choose from here if you want to sit down and enjoy a nice drink and the local vibe – despite this being a relatively small city, there are more than 365 bars here, with more than 100 in the city centre. Do some digging before you come here and find the one that appeals to you the most.

The official title of the position of York’s mayor is The Right Honourable Lord Mayor, and this is the only city in England apart from London to bestow that title on the man in charge.

Remember Wars of the Roses? This series of English civil wars in the fifteenth century features the House of Tudor and the House of Lancaster on one side and the House of York on the other. The white rose that symbolized the House of York remains on the flag of Yorkshire to this very day.

One day in York Itinerary

Welcome to York, a city full of incredible history and a place that has played an incredibly important role in so many different periods of English history. There can be no doubt that a day in York is a day well spent as there is plenty to see and experience, but if you need a bit of help planning which places to see, here’s a handy itinerary to point you in the right direction. Enjoy!

Start your day in York with a nice walk

Nothing like a nice walk to start a fantastic day! And what better destination for that than York’s city walls ? The largest part of the walls was built during the Medieval period, although there are parts that go back all the way back to Roman times. The view from up there is quite beautiful, and there are many trees next to the walls which really adds to the experience.

Now, you can do the whole tour, but if you have just one day in York, it may be more prudent to explore just a part of the walls since the walls total more than two miles in length. The bit between Monk Bar and Bootham Bar is particularly pretty because of the Minster looming in the background. Oh, and the entrance is free.

Marvel at the York Minster

Once you’re done with the city walls, you don’t have to go far – the magnificent York Minster is right in front of you! This is one of the symbols of York and a true architectural masterpiece that dates back to the 13th century.

The highlights of the visit include the exceptionally beautiful stained-glass windows, the Treasury which houses numerous fascinating artifacts, and the Central Tower which can be climbed for a spectacular view. Be warned – there are 275 steps here! Keep in mind that this cathedral dedicated to St. Peter is only open till 3 PM, so do come and visit it in the morning.

Explore Shambles

Don’t let the name fool you – Shambles is an incredibly charming part of York and a place that is a must in any itinerary. Numerous shops, restaurants, cafes and other places of that kind are wherever you look, but what makes this place especially interesting is the fact that it dates from the 14th century, and you can still see hooks on the walls from the time when butchers had their stalls here.

It’s a perfect place to sit down for a drink, pick up a souvenir or even sit down for lunch, but those with a bit of adventurous spirit will absolutely love it because there are so many tiny streets (known as Snickleways ) just waiting to be discovered. Try to find Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma Gate if you can – it’s the shortest street in York!

Find a place for lunch

There are plenty of great places for lunch in York, and sitting down for a meal in the heart of this beautiful city is bound to be memorable. Ye Olde Starre Inne is certainly a place to consider because this is the oldest pub in York and offers excellent traditional British dishes. Incredibly, a part of the place dates back all the way to the 16th century!

Apart from that, Little Italy comes very highly recommended, Wine Stories is a great Greek restaurant, Rustique is an excellent choice for French cuisine, and Turtle Bay York offers Caribbean dishes. And that’s just the beginning – you won’t be hungry in this town for very long, that’s for sure!

Head to the National Railway Museum

Trains have played a huge role in York’s history, and you can learn all about that and so much more if you visit the National Railway Museum . Just cross River Ouse to the other side and you’ll quickly find it.

If there is a train lovers’ paradise, this has to be it – everything from locomotives from the early 19th century to Japanese bullet trains is here, and there are plenty of other very interesting things to do. You can, for example, see how Victorian railway stations used to work, climb closer to the ceiling of the museum and look at the trains from above, see the carriages that belonged to Queen Elizabeth and much more.

This short piece of text is not enough to show how awesome this place is, but trust me – well worth a place in your York itinerary.

Climb up to Clifford’s Tower

Go back across the river again and head slightly south. You will see a lone tower rising up above the city. That’s Clifford’s Tower , a building dating back to 1068, although back then it was a wooden construction – it got the current look in the 13th century. Interestingly (and horrifyingly), the tower was used to showcase the heads of executed people.

In any case, the view from up here is spectacular, and the place was recently polished up, so the climb will really be worth the effort.

Enjoy an evening cruise

After a long day in York, you certainly deserve some relaxation, so treat yourself to a sunset cruise along the River Ouse . It takes about an hour and allows you to get to know the city in a whole new way. Some spectacular photo-ops will present themselves along the way, and the boat taking you should be serving snacks and drinks. No doubt, this is a great way to catch your breath a bit after an itinerary like this, plus you will get to take some pictures that will last you a lifetime.

Plan a fun evening

To wrap things up, there are plenty of interesting choices in York. If you’d like to continue the romance after the cruise with your significant other, I would suggest heading to Delrio’s Restaurant for dinner. This Italian restaurant offers a very intimate atmosphere in a beautiful cellar, so the mood should be perfect.

If that’s not your cup of tea, you can visit some of the bars and pubs, and there are plenty of those to choose from – House of Trembling Madness is an excellent bar that promises a lot and delivers on those promises, BrewDog offers Scottish beers, and Pairing Wine Bar is a great choice for wine enthusiasts.

You can also go on a ghost tour, see a play in Theatre Royal which was built in 1744, or go clubbing if you have the energy ( Popworld and Flares are fine choices for that). In short, you’re gonna have a great time and finish off this one day in York in style!

Where to stay in York?

The Grand, York

City Centre, Station Rise, York, YO1 6HT

Luxurious accommodation in York is best epitomized by The Grand , an amazing five-star hotel right in the city centre. The most important feature is the incredible spa with a big pool, hot tub, sauna, and steam room. The rooms are impeccable and come with Molton Brown toiletries among other things, and the hotel’s restaurant and bar will offer plenty of excellent dishes and drinks. Oh, there’s also a fitness centre, too. In short, this is exactly what a five-star accommodation should look like. You’ll love it!

BOOK A ROOM HERE

The Churchill Hotel

65 Bootham, York, YO30 7DQ

Now, this is a beauty! Located in a Georgian mansion from 1827, The Churchill Hotel exudes class and elegance, befitting a hotel named after Britain’s most famous prime minister. The interior is exquisite, with many items related to Winston Churchill himself decorating the walls. The hotel is in a quiet neighborhood, although quite close to York’s centre, plus there is a wonderful beer garden to enjoy, too. Add to that excellent food and comfortable rooms, and this place becomes a real winner!

The Queens Hotel

City Centre, Queens Staith Road, Skeldergate, York, YO1 6DH

The Queens Hotel boasts an excellent location, right in the middle of it all, so from here you will be able to easily experience York to the fullest. Bars, restaurants and numerous important sights are within walking distance, but this is just one of the advantages. The value you get here for your money is excellent, with very comfortable rooms that come with a selection of complimentary toiletries. The food is served in a very relaxed restaurant, the bar is great, and the staff working here are exceptionally kind.

Astor York Hostel

124 Holgate Road, York, YO24 4BB

For those of you looking for a hostel, Astor York Hostel is an excellent choice. First of all, it is located in a beautiful Victorian building, close to the city centre, so the location is as good as it gets. On top of that, however, there’s a nice bar you can enjoy, two very big dining rooms, and a comfortable lounge. Everything is very clean, the rooms will meet all your expectations and more, plus the hostel organizes movie nights. You can’t go wrong with this one!

Day trips from York

Yorkshire boasts some of the most beautiful sceneries in the country, so it would really be a shame to miss out on a day trip from York if you have an opportunity to set one up. Quaint villages and lovely castles, all far away from the city bustle – this is a perfect opportunity to get to see the romantic side of England. Here’s what to consider.

Yorkshire Dales

Yorkshire Dales is a picturesque part of England, with green rolling hills and quaint little towns scattered around where you really get to enjoy a very special vibe. There’s also a national park here, so nature lovers will surely be happy, Bolton Castle is also one of the highlights around here, and this is generally a trip that always leaves you wanting more. Organized tours are also available.

If you want to explore other English cities, Leeds is a great choice because it’s less than an hour away by car. Spending one day in Leeds means enjoying some wonderful architecture, museums, galleries and excellent restaurants at very reasonable prices. This is a student city, after all. Undoubtedly, a great choice for a day trip.

There is also the option of spending one day in Manchester as your day trip from York. While it does take about two hours to get there, visiting this city is so worth it – it is a modern vibrant metropolis with amazingly beautiful libraries, a fascinating town hall, and excellent museums. There are plenty of great shopping venues too, and football fans are sure to love checking out the homes of two illustrious clubs: Manchester United and Manchester City.

A day trip to Whitby will not only allow you to see an incredible national park called North York Moors, but you will also get to know an exceptionally charming coastal town that has a lot to offer. Many will call this the home of fish’n’chips, and Whitby Abbey is famous for serving as an inspiration to Bram Stoker to create Dracula. And that’s just the beginning – Whitby guarantees a wonderful day out!

Extra tips for visiting York

– Always keep English weather in mind – expect rain and pack accordingly

– York is a relatively small city, especially its centre, so you can easily explore everything on foot. Feel free to leave your car at your accommodation or skip renting one out entirely. You can do just fine without it.

– A good thing to keep in mind, since again, this is England, that they use G sockets here. Think ahead if you want your phone charged and ready for taking pictures.

– York does not have an airport. If you’re thinking of flying in, the closest airport is in Leeds, which is not too bad. From there, it will take you an hour or an hour and a half to reach York city center.

– York City Pass will allow you to see many attractions at a lower price

Make sure you have everything you need

What to pack for your next trip.

Make your next trip as simple and as enjoyable as possible by packing smart. It’s amazing how much stress top travel items can save you, so choose carefully. Things like lightweight travel backpacks, for example, are ideal for short trips and allow you to move around with ease, and a passport holder will make sure you keep your documents safe at all times. Check our travel checklist guide for 2021 to make sure you haven’t missed anything, and travel to your next destination in style and with maximum comfort.

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15 Beautiful Medieval Churches to Visit in York, England

York is absolutely littered with old churches, many of them medieval. 14 th century York had more than 40 parish churches, plus the cathedral/minster and several monasteries. Many of them are still standing and can be visited. Read on for my comprehensive list of York’s Medieval churches, along with some honourable mentions.

York Minster

York Minster is the huge cathedral at the northern corner of the old city. It is the largest Gothic Cathedral in Northern Europe (don’t take my word on that – I haven’t gone to all the Gothic cathedrals in Northern Europe and measured them).

There may have been a wooden church on this site in York from the 7 th century, but construction on the first stone cathedral here started in the 11 th century. That cathedral was significantly remodelled from 1220 onwards and became the magnificent building that we see today.

The Minster is the only medieval church on this list that visitors have to pay to enter. While it’s not overly cheap, it is well worth paying for. You cannot go to York without visiting York Minster.

All Saints North Street

This is one of the more out of the way churches in the centre of York. It is located along a quiet stretch of North Street between Lendal and Ouse bridges; access from the Lendal Bridge end is difficult, so I recommend finding your way along from Micklegate.

All Saints North Street claims to have one of the best collections of medieval stained glass in England. This collection includes the Corporal Acts of Mercy window (showing a local wealthy merchant helping the sick and poor) and the Pricke of Conscience window (based on a middle English poem).

All Saints Pavement

Looking down along one of the first streets in York to be paved, All Saints has a tall lantern tower that can be seen from all around the city; presumably the light used to guide travellers towards the city.

This church has a long history, with firm evidence for it having existed since at least the 10 th century. It seems to have been a wealthy church with local leaders and merchants as parishioners and once housed a valuable holy relic. Enter the nave and look up – the stunning blue-panelled ceiling dates from the 15 th century.

St Helen Stonegate

Towering over St Helen’s Square, this church in the centre of York is dedicated to the mother of Emperor Constantine. There is a stained-glass window in the church with glass from the 14 th , 15 th , and 16 th centuries – two of the panels show images that probably represent St Helen and Constantine. Another interesting feature is a memorial to some particularly long-lived sisters.

Much of the church has been rebuilt several times over the centuries, most recently during the Victorian era. The oldest part still there is the font, which dates from the 12 th century. There is still some 13 th century stonework, but most of the building dates from the 14 th and 15 th centuries.

St Martin-le-Grand

Founded in the 11 th century, this church was extended in the 13 th century and had significant buildings works done in the 15 th century. In 1730 it became York’s official civic church, and the National Gazetteer of 1868 called it one of the most beautiful churches in York.

Unfortunately, St Martin-le-Grand was bombed during the Second World War. The remains were rebuilt into a memorial to the victims of war. The south wall is original, as is the window at the west end of the building (it was removed to keep it safe during the war and built into the reconstruction). Today, it is a very calm place to take some time out in the middle of the busy city centre.

St Mary Bishophill Junior

The first part of this church to be built was the tower, which dates from just following the Norman Conquest. Shortly afterwards, the nave was built for the growing congregation. As the room at the base of the tower is presently used as a prayer and meeting space, it claims to be the longest continually used worship space in York.

Saint Denys Walmgate

St Denys is a French saint who reportedly carried his decapitated head for several miles. It is worth visiting because of this story alone, even if the church wasn’t so interesting. The building was originally quite a bit larger but part of the land subsided when the King’s Fishpool was drained and a sewer built nearby.

The Norman-style entrance doorway is one of the oldest features, dating from the 1160s-ish. There are also some 12 th century carved heads and roundels (thought to be the oldest glass in York). Other notable features include the rest of the stained-glass windows and monuments to the powerful Percy family who lived nearby.

Of all the medieval churches in York, St Denys Walmgate was my favourite.

St Margaret’s Church

This church has existed since at least the 12 th century. It was never as rich as neighbouring St Denys, and very little of the original building has stood the test of time. The building was largely rebuilt and enlarged during the 14 th century, and during the 17 th century the steeple collapsed and wasn’t repaired for yonks.

Today, it is home to the National Centre for Early Music (early music being medieval and renaissance era music). If you ask me, St Margaret’s is the best setting for such an organisation.

Church of the Holy Trinity Goodramgate

Tucked out of sight behind a busy row of shops, this is the only church in York that still has its’ box-pews. Most of the building is from the 15 th century, but there are pieces from as early as the 12 th century still visible.

The atmosphere inside is old-fashioned and authentic. It has uneven floors, several small alcoves, no electric lighting, and a gorgeous churchyard. I was there in January and I could see my breath. If you’re interested in LGBT history, this is the place where Anne Lister and Ann Walker “took sacrament to seal their union” in 1834.

St Olave’s Church

Just outside the Marygate entrance to the Museum Gardens, St Olave’s used to be home to the order that built St Mary’s Abbey. It was founded in the early 11 th century and dedicated to the Viking warrior/king who took Christianity to Norway.

Its’ location makes it easy to visit alongside the Yorkshire Museum and Museum Gardens. Outside, the entrance seems small. Inside, it is large and airy, if a bit dim due to the lack of electric lighting. The churchyard is gorgeous, surrounded by the city walls with beautiful trees providing shade.

St Andrew’s Evangelical Church

The history of this plain building starts during the 14 th century. The church was closed in 1559 and over the following centuries the building had many uses, including a stable, a brothel, and a school. Today, it’s back to being a church . It’s small, but they’ve kept many original features, especially outside.

St Cuthbert’s Church

The Lord Mayor of York, William de Bowes, had this church rebuilt in 1430. It has strong links to the family of James Wolfe (aka the Hero of Quebec) leading to it sometimes being called the Cradle of Canada.

It has combined with St Michael le Belfry and now the building is used as church offices. Going inside for a look is difficult, but there’s nothing to see here that you cannot see at another medieval church.

St Michael’s Spurriergate Church

Today the Spurriergate Centre is a chartable trust with an aim to provide community and hospitality with a Christian focus. It is housed in the building that used to house St Michael’s Church; the first stone church here was built in the 12 th century and much of the current building is 14 th and 15 th century.

St Martin-cum-Gregory

St Martin’s Church dates back to the 11 th century, though much of the remaining building is from the 14 th and 15 th centuries. In 1585, St Martin’s combined with St Gregory’s to become St Martin-cum-Gregory. The church now houses a branch of the Stained-Glass Centre.

The Stained-Glass Centre holds lectures and workshops about stained-glass making techniques and history. The building of St Martin-cum-Gregory has what is supposedly some great stained-glass windows, but opening is limited and it wasn’t open during the time I was in York.  

Holy Trinity Priory

A church has been here since before the Norman Conquest. Afterwards, it was left in some disrepair until a group of Benedictine monks from France rebuilt it. The Priory was caught up in the Dissolution of the Monasteries and became a regular parish church.

Today, there are some lovely displays at the back showing visitors the history of the church, the Bible, and the Benedictine order. It’s one of the few churches I visited in York that looked set-up to receive visitors (not just open).

Honourable Mentions

• St Michael le Belfry : this church may or may not be medieval, depending on what date you put on the end of the middle ages. Built between 1525 and 1536, it sits on the site of the old Minster Belfry. It is best known as the church where Guy Fawkes was baptised.
• St Wilfrid’s Catholic Church : the original church of St Wilfrid was demolished in 1585. The parish was revived in the 1740s and the present church built in the 1860s in the gothic revival style (it looks medieval).
• St Saviourgate Unitarian Chapel : this church was built for Presbyterian worship in the 1690s, following the passing of an act allowing greater freedom of worship. Unusually for this time, it is largely made of bricks.

So that’s my super comprehensive list of Medieval Churches in York. Have you visited any of these churches? Tell me what you thought. Do you know of any that I’ve missed? Let me know in the comments.

Want to create your own epic personalised travel souvenir? Get my free travel journal prompts printable here.

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2 thoughts on “ 15 Beautiful Medieval Churches to Visit in York, England ”

Really loved this – and took notes for when we’re allowed to travel over here again. This post sent me on all sorts of interesting searches – I learned the Prick of Conscience was a wildly popular Medieval poem, and that Constantine built churches for his mother all over Europe (I’ve actually seen her skull on display in one of them in Trier) – a really enjoyable post. When we get to planning a trip to York, I’m definitely consulting with you for the itinerary.

Very interesting article! Always wanted to visit York but never had a chance. Not far from Scotland though

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18 Sep 2024 - 5 min read

Sejarah dan Fakta Menarik Cathedral of Saint John the Divine: Simbol Kebesaran Arsitektur New York

Cathedral of Saint John the Divine, terletak di Morningside Heights, Manhattan, New York , adalah salah satu katedral terbesar di dunia. Pembangunannya dimulai pada 1892, tetapi hingga kini belum selesai, sehingga sering dijuluki "St. John the Unfinished."

Awalnya, arsitek George Heins dan Christopher LaFarge mendesainnya dengan gaya Romawi-Byzantine, tetapi pada tahun 1909, rencana ini diubah menjadi gaya Gothic oleh Ralph Adams Cram. Pergantian arsitektur ini merefleksikan pengaruh besar dari kebangkitan Gothic pada abad ke-19 di Amerika dan Eropa​.

Katedral ini telah mengalami berbagai gangguan pembangunan, terutama akibat Perang Dunia I dan II, serta kekurangan dana. Bahkan, sebagian besar dari fasad dan menara katedral masih belum selesai​. Pada 2001, kebakaran besar juga merusak bagian dari bangunan ini, tetapi pemugaran selesai pada 2008, memperkuat posisinya sebagai ikon arsitektur kota New York​.

Cari tahu lebih lanjut dari gereja ini, yuk!

Lokasi dan Cara Menuju Ke Cathedral of Saint John the Divine

Cathedral of Saint John the Divine berlokasi di 1047 Amsterdam Avenue, antara West 110th Street dan West 113th Street di Manhattan. Katedral ini berada di lingkungan Morningside Heights yang juga dikenal dengan sejumlah institusi pendidikan seperti Columbia University.

Untuk menuju ke sini, pengunjung dapat menggunakan subway jalur 1 atau B/C menuju stasiun Cathedral Parkway-110th Street. Dari sana, katedral hanya berjarak beberapa menit berjalan kaki​.

Baca Juga: 8 Hal Seru yang Wajib Dicoba Dekat Central Park New York

Fakta Menarik Cathedral of Saint John the Divine

1. Ukuran yang Mengesankan

St. John the Divine memiliki ukuran yang sangat luar biasa, dengan panjang mencapai 183 meter dan luas lebih dari 11.200 meter persegi. Katedral ini merupakan yang terbesar dalam kategori sejarah Anglikan di seluruh dunia, dan jika dilihat dari total luas, gereja ini menduduki peringkat keenam terbesar di dunia​.

Strukturnya yang megah ini tidak hanya memberikan ruang yang besar untuk kegiatan religius tetapi juga untuk berbagai acara komunitas dan budaya. Atapnya bahkan mencapai ketinggian 54 meter yang memberikan kesan megah ketika Anda berada di dalamnya​. Luas ruang dalam yang masif menjadikan katedral ini mampu menampung ribuan orang sekaligus, dan interiornya sering dipakai untuk acara-acara besar, baik yang bersifat religius maupun budaya.

2. The Rose Window

Salah satu aspek paling menakjubkan dari St. John the Divine adalah Rose Window-nya, yang merupakan salah satu jendela mawar terbesar di dunia. Jendela ini memiliki diameter sekitar 12 meter dan terdiri dari lebih dari 10.000 keping kaca berwarna​. Jendela mawar ini tidak hanya besar, tetapi juga sangat indah dan penuh detail. Pada bagian tengahnya terdapat gambar Kristus, yang dikelilingi oleh berbagai tokoh dari Perjanjian Lama dan Perjanjian Baru, serta enam belas malaikat​.

Jendela ini adalah salah satu simbol utama dari arsitektur Gothic katedral ini dan menarik ribuan pengunjung yang ingin melihat keindahan arsitektur kaca patri ini dari dekat.

3. Tidak Pernah Selesai

Salah satu hal yang paling menarik dan unik tentang katedral ini adalah kenyataan bahwa setelah lebih dari 130 tahun sejak awal pembangunannya, St. John the Divine masih belum selesai. Katedral ini dikenal sebagai " St. John the Unfinished " karena banyak bagian yang direncanakan belum terealisasi, termasuk menara utama dan bagian transept selatan​.

Berbagai tantangan, mulai dari masalah dana hingga perang dunia, menyebabkan pembangunan terhenti berkali-kali​. Meski demikian, katedral ini tetap menjadi tempat ibadah aktif dan pusat budaya, dengan sebagian besar strukturnya yang sudah selesai tetap menjadi destinasi wisata terkenal.

4. Dome yang Luas

Di bagian tengah katedral, tepatnya di area crossing, terdapat dome besar yang menjadi salah satu elemen arsitektur yang paling mengesankan. Dome ini awalnya dirancang sebagai penutup sementara hingga bagian selatan dan utara selesai dibangun, tetapi hingga kini, dome tersebut tetap menjadi bagian permanen dari bangunan.

Dome ini dibangun dengan menggunakan ubin Guastavino, sebuah teknik arsitektur yang inovatif pada masanya, dan memiliki ukuran yang sangat luas sehingga bahkan Patung Liberty bisa muat di bawahnya​. Keunikan dome ini adalah simbol arsitektur transisi yang terjadi selama pembangunan katedral, dari gaya Byzantine-Romanesque menuju Gothic.

5. Pusat Kegiatan Seni dan Budaya

Meskipun pada awalnya dibangun sebagai tempat ibadah, Cathedral of Saint John the Divine kini telah berkembang menjadi pusat kegiatan seni dan budaya yang penting di New York. Interior katedral yang luas sering digunakan untuk menggelar berbagai pameran seni, konser, serta acara komunitas lainnya.

Misalnya, festival tahunan "Blessing of the Animals" dan berbagai pameran seni kontemporer telah diselenggarakan di sini​. Kombinasi antara fungsinya sebagai rumah ibadah dan pusat kebudayaan membuat katedral ini sangat istimewa. Banyak seniman terkenal dan tokoh masyarakat yang menjadikan tempat ini sebagai forum untuk berbagi karya dan pemikiran mereka.

Baca Juga: 11 Tempat Wisata di New York Terkenal - Versi Terbaru 2024

5 Tempat Wisata Dekat Cathedral Of Saint John the Divine

Gereja ini berada di pusat kota New York, dan dekat dengan berbagai tempat wisata menarik, termasuk Columbia University. Berikut adalah lima tempat wisata terkenal di dekat Cathedral of Saint John the Divine:

1. Empire State Building

Empire State Building adalah ikon kota New York yang menawarkan pemandangan panorama 360 derajat dari ketinggian yang menakjubkan. Bangunan ini memiliki ketinggian 443 meter dari permukaan jalan hingga ujung antenanya dan merupakan salah satu pencakar langit paling terkenal di dunia.

Dengan dek observasi di lantai 86 dan 102, Anda bisa menikmati pemandangan kota yang memukau, terutama saat matahari terbenam. Selain pemandangan luar biasa, gedung ini juga dihiasi dengan pencahayaan yang berwarna-warni untuk berbagai acara sepanjang tahun. Untuk kenyamanan, Anda bisa membeli tiket Empire State Building di Traveloka .

2. Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

MoMA adalah surga bagi para pecinta seni modern yang menyimpan karya-karya seniman legendaris seperti Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, Andy Warhol, dan banyak lainnya. Museum ini menampilkan berbagai koleksi mulai dari lukisan, patung, fotografi, hingga instalasi multimedia.

MoMA juga sering mengadakan pameran khusus yang menampilkan tren terkini dalam dunia seni kontemporer. Terletak di pusat Manhattan, museum ini mudah diakses dari berbagai tempat wisata lainnya. Tiket untuk mengunjungi MoMA dapat Anda temukan dengan mudah di Traveloka.

3. Big Bus New York Hop On Hop Off Tour

Big Bus New York Hop On Hop Off Tour menawarkan cara praktis dan nyaman untuk menjelajahi berbagai atraksi utama di New York. Anda bisa naik dan turun di lebih dari 25 pemberhentian di sekitar kota, termasuk tempat-tempat ikonik seperti Times Square, Empire State Building, dan Central Park.

Dengan pemandu audio yang tersedia dalam berbagai bahasa, Anda akan mendapatkan informasi sejarah dan fakta menarik tentang setiap lokasi yang dilewati. Tiket untuk tur Big Bus New York dapat dipesan melalui Traveloka, memungkinkan Anda untuk merencanakan perjalanan sesuai keinginan.

4. 9/11 Memorial Museum

9/11 Memorial Museum adalah tempat yang menyentuh hati, didedikasikan untuk mengenang tragedi serangan 11 September 2001. Museum ini menampilkan artefak, rekaman suara, dan narasi tentang peristiwa bersejarah tersebut, serta menghormati para korban dan pahlawan yang terlibat.

Dengan desain arsitektur yang menggugah, museum ini menawarkan pengalaman yang mendalam dan penuh refleksi bagi para pengunjung. Lokasi ini wajib dikunjungi bagi mereka yang ingin memahami dampak dan warisan dari serangan ini terhadap Amerika dan dunia. Tiket untuk museum ini bisa dibeli dengan mudah melalui Traveloka.

5. Central Park

Central Park adalah ruang terbuka hijau di tengah hiruk pikuk Manhattan yang menawarkan berbagai kegiatan rekreasi mulai dari berjalan-jalan santai, bersepeda, hingga piknik di rumput yang luas. Dengan luas lebih dari 340 hektar, taman ini memiliki banyak daya tarik, seperti Bethesda Terrace, Strawberry Fields yang didedikasikan untuk John Lennon, serta Central Park Zoo. Anda juga bisa mengikuti tur kereta kuda atau menikmati keindahan taman di berbagai musim.

Dengan Traveloka, Anda dapat dengan mudah memesan tiket untuk destinasi-destinasi wisata ini, menjadikan perjalanan Anda ke New York lebih praktis dan menyenangkan!

Cathedral of Saint John the Divine bukan hanya tempat ibadah, tetapi juga warisan arsitektur dan pusat budaya yang terus berkembang. Dengan sejarah panjang yang mencerminkan tantangan dan perubahan, katedral ini adalah saksi dari perjalanan kota New York. Jika Anda tertarik mengunjungi katedral ini, pastikan untuk menjelajahi area sekitarnya yang juga penuh dengan keindahan sejarah dan budaya.

Tertarik untuk menjelajahi New York dan mengunjungi Cathedral of Saint John the Divine? Temukan penawaran terbaik untuk tiket pesawat , hotel , dan tiket wisata di Traveloka sekarang juga! Rencanakan perjalanan Anda hari ini dan nikmati kemegahan salah satu katedral terbesar di dunia sambil mengunjungi berbagai tempat wisata menarik di Manhattan. Pesan sekarang!

Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) Ticket in Manhattan | New York

Midtown Manhattan

Penerbangan ke New York

Spirit Airlines

Mulai dari Rp 296.579

Boston (BOS) ke New York (EWR)

Wed, 16 Oct 2024

Delta Airlines

Mulai dari Rp 843.885

Atlanta (ATL) ke New York (EWR)

United Airlines

Mulai dari Rp 940.189

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