York Minster

The origins of York Minster date back to the 7th century when a wooden church was built for the baptism of King Edwin of Northumbria in 637 AD. The current stone structure began construction in 1220 and took over 250 years to complete, reflecting various architectural styles from Early English Gothic to Perpendicular Gothic. The Minster has served as the seat of the Archbishop of York, the second-highest office in the Church of England, and played a significant role in religious and political events throughout history.

York Minster is renowned for its stained glass, particularly the Great East Window, completed in 1408. This window is the largest expanse of medieval stained glass in the world, depicting scenes from the Book of Revelation. The Rose Window, commemorating the union of the houses of York and Lancaster, is another notable feature. The Minster’s Chapter House, with its octagonal shape and detailed stone carvings, highlights the craftsmanship of medieval builders.

The Minster has survived periods of upheaval, such as the English Reformation and the Civil War, not to mention a major fire in 1984. The most recent restoration efforts focus on preserving its stained glass and stonework for future generations.

What to see at York Minster

Visitors can explore various parts of the cathedral and its surrounding areas. The nave, with its high vaulted ceilings and Gothic arches, offers an impressive introduction to the building’s scale and design. The choir area, adorned with wooden stalls and intricate carvings, is used for regular services and special events.

The Great East Window is a highlight, and visitors can view its detailed stained glass up close. The Minster also features the Five Sisters Window in the north transept, a series of five tall lancet windows with monochrome glass, dating from the 13th century. The Rose Window in the south transept adds to the Minster’s collection of notable stained glass.

The Undercroft Museum beneath the Minster displays artefacts from the cathedral’s history, including Roman remains and medieval treasures. The museum provides insights into the Minster’s construction and the people involved in its history. Visitors can also see the crypt, where some of the earliest parts of the Minster are preserved.

For those seeking a panoramic view of York, climbing the central tower is a popular option. The 275-step ascent rewards visitors with views over the city and surrounding countryside. The climb is physically demanding, but the views offer a unique perspective of York.

Visiting York Minster

York Minster is at the northern end of the city centre. The main entrance is on Deangate, and the Minster is surrounded by pedestrian-friendly streets. From here, most other points of interest in York are no more than a 10–15-minute walk away.

The Minster is open to visitors daily, although there may be closures or restricted hours due to scheduled events such as funerals, weddings and religious services.

The admission fee is fairly steep for a cathedral in the north of England, but York Minster is not your average cathedral so it’s money well spent. Entry to the Minster for worship is free, and regular services are open to all.

The Minster is accessible to visitors with mobility issues, though the tower climb may not be suitable for everyone. Guided tours are available and provide in-depth information about the Minster’s history and architecture.

A visit to York Minster typically takes between one and two hours, though additional time may be needed for the tower climb or guided tours.