Exploring York Minster: A Visitor's Guide

York Minster, dedicated to St. Peter, is a historical symbol of Christianity in England, with its origins tracing back to the 3rd and 4th centuries. Its significance was recognized early on, with its bishops attending the council at Arles in AD 314. The current Gothic structure dates back to the 13th century, replacing earlier Saxon and Norman buildings.

Our visitor's guide will help you discover the marvels of York Minster. To fully experience the site, consider staying at a local hotel.

Highlights of York Minster

• First Impressions: The Side Aisle Windows
• The Choir Aisle and the North Transept
• The Choir
• The Organ
• Tombs and Tales from the Crypt
• The Chapterhouse
• The Close
• Treasures of the Undercroft
• Stairway to Heaven: Climbing the Central Tower
• Touring York Minster
• Tips and Tactics for Visiting
• Getting to York Minster
• Nearby Attractions

First Impressions: The Side Aisle Windows

The side aisles of York Minster greet visitors with stunning windows, including the 14th-century Pilgrimage Window and the Bellfounders' Window, both rich in detail and history.

The Choir Aisle and the North Transept

The Choir Aisle, built in the early-Gothic style, features the Five Sisters Window and the Crossing, which houses the Rood-screen with statues of English kings.

The Choir

The Choir, rebuilt in the 14th century, showcases St. William's Window and St Cuthbert's Window, along with the Lady Chapel's East Window, the world's largest medieval stained-glass window.

The Organ

York Minster's Grand Organ, dating back to the 1830s, was recently restored and features 5,400 pipes. It supports the cathedral choir and is used for concerts and recitals.

Tombs and Tales from the Crypt

The 12th-century Norman Crypt contains historical artifacts, including the York Virgin and the Doomstone.

The Chapterhouse

The Chapterhouse, dating from the 13th century, is known for its self-supporting wooden roof and intricate windows.

The Close

York Minster Close features historical buildings like St. William's College and the Treasurer's House, as well as the Minster Library.

Treasures of the Undercroft

The Undercroft museum showcases the cathedral's history and artifacts from its Roman roots to the present.

Stairway to Heaven: Climbing the Central Tower

Climbing the Central Tower offers a panoramic view of York, though it requires ascending 275 steps.

Touring York Minster

York Minster offers guided tours and Little Explorer Backpacks for children. Special events and services are also available.

Tips and Tactics: How to Make the Most of Your Visit to York Minster

• Check for closures and events on the cathedral's website.
• Enjoy dining options in the surrounding area.
• Visit the on-site gift shops or shop online.
• Attend public services featuring the York Minster organ.

Getting to York Minster

• By Train: York is accessible via direct rail links and is a short walk from the station.
• By Road: York is well-connected by road.
• Parking: City-operated parking lots are available with bus connections.

Address

• Deangate, York
• www.yorkminster.org

What's Nearby?

York Minster is close to attractions like the medieval city walls, River Ouse, York Castle, National Railway Museum, and the Shambles. The Jorvik Viking Centre is also nearby.