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York Minster - The jewel in Yorkshire's crown

York Minster is the largest Medieval Gothic cathedral north of the Alps, and a treasure house of 800 years of stained glass. Explore the history beneath your feet in the Undercroft and enjoy magnificent views from the tower top. The Minster is open daily, subject to services. It’s worth asking our concierge to check opening times for you before your visit, to avoid potential disappointment.

This great Cathedral is an active place of worship, a visitor attraction, an educational and historic resource, an arts venue, and the gem at the heart of Yorkshire.

A visit to York Minster offers traces of every age from the Roman occupation of York onwards. York Minster is a world-famous artistic and architectural masterpiece, built between the 1220s and the 1470s. It is a superb attraction for people of all ages.

Visit a part of York’s heritage

The Minster stands on a site rich with centuries of history. The Emperor Constantine began his progress to greatness here, and the foundations of the Roman buildings in which he lived can be seen under the central tower. St Paulinus baptised the local Saxon king on this spot, and many Archbishops, including St William of York, are buried here.

York Minster is home to a living community of Christian worship, where the sound of choral music has lifted the spirits of visitors and pilgrims for centuries.

Things to see and do

When you visit the Minster, your first port of call should be to experience the beauty of the Quire and the Chapter House. From there, take some time to discover the Minster's fascinating history in the Undercroft, Treasury and Crypt. Gaze from the top of the central Tower across the pinnacles and gargoyles of the Minster, looking out onto the medieval streets of historic York and to the countryside beyond. Finally, take a tour of the new Glass Conservation Studio and Bedern Chapel.

Our Concierge will help you to find out opening times, and answer any queries you may have about this historic Yorkshire gem.