York Minster
York Minster is the great Gothic cathedral at the heart of York and a centre of Christianity in the north of England since the 7th century. Plan time for the Great East Window, the octagonal Chapter House, the Undercroft museum and, if you have the legs, the 275-step climb up the central tower.
Photos
Andrew Starmer-Allen
What to see inside
The Great East Window is described as the single largest expanse of stained glass in the country, and it is worth standing back in the choir to take it in. The octagonal Chapter House, built in the 1280s, has a vaulted ceiling held up by roof timbers rather than a central column. Below ground, the Undercroft museum reveals Roman barracks, an Anglo-Saxon cemetery and the foundations of the Norman church.
Climbing the tower
The Tower Challenge takes you up 275 medieval steps through narrow passages to the highest point in the city. On the way you pass carved grotesques and may hear the resident peregrine falcons; at the top you can see the rivers Ouse and Foss, the city walls and, on a clear day, the Kilburn White Horse. It costs extra, climbers must be eight or older, and spaces are limited, so book ahead.
Planning your visit
Daily services are open to all, and Choral Evensong is sung most days in term time. York residents get free general admission with proof of address. The Minster has accessible toilets, wheelchairs and facilities for visitors with hearing or sight loss; dogs other than assistance dogs are not allowed.
Highlights
- Great East Window, the largest expanse of stained glass in the country
- 1280s Chapter House with no central column
- Undercroft museum with Roman and Anglo-Saxon remains
- 275-step central tower climb
Good to know
- Tower climbs cost extra, are limited and for ages 8+
- Free general admission for York residents with proof
- Assistance dogs only
- Arrive 10 minutes before a booked tower slot
Frequently asked questions
Sources: yorkminster.org · visityork.org