Bedern Hall: York’s Medieval Guild and Refectory Heritage
Step into Bedern Hall, a stunning medieval guild hall in York where history, architecture, and community converge in timeless elegance.
Bedern Hall is a remarkable 14th-century medieval hall in York, originally serving as the refectory for the Vicars Choral college. Featuring medieval timber framing, York stone flooring, and a soaring beamed roof, it has evolved from a dining hall to a vibrant events and guild venue, preserving centuries of York’s rich history in its walls.
A brief summary to Bedern Hall
- Bartle Garth, St Andrewgate, York, YO1 7AL, GB
- +441904646030
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Wednesday 10:30 am-3:30 pm
- Thursday 10:30 am-3:30 pm
- Friday 10:30 am-3:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekday afternoons when the hall is open for events to experience its historic ambiance with fewer crowds.
- Explore the medieval timber framing and fan-vaulted bay window closely to appreciate the craftsmanship.
- Check the schedule for guild meetings or special events to witness the hall’s living heritage.
- Combine your visit with a walk around York’s historic center to fully immerse in the city’s medieval character.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take York’s local bus services from the city center to St Andrewgate; the journey typically takes 10-15 minutes. Buses run frequently during the day, with tickets costing around £2-£3. Note that services reduce on weekends and evenings.
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Taxi
A taxi ride from York city center to Bedern Hall takes approximately 5-10 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares around £5-£8. Taxis offer flexible, direct access but may be limited during peak hours.
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Walking
For those staying nearby, a walk from York Minster to Bedern Hall takes about 15-20 minutes across mostly flat, paved streets. The route is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
Bedern Hall location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Bedern Hall
Medieval Origins and Architectural Heritage
Bedern Hall was constructed in the mid-14th century as the refectory for the College of the Vicars Choral, a group of clergy who served York Minster. The hall’s medieval timber framing remains visible in one wall, while the rest of the structure combines coursed limestone and brickwork. Originally, the floor was covered with green glazed tiles—two of which were uncovered during archaeological excavations—though today it features durable York stone. A notable architectural highlight is a bay window with a fan-vaulted roof, an early example of this style closely linked to the craftsmanship seen in York Minster, possibly by masons William Hoton or Robert de Patryngton.Evolution Through Centuries
From its origins as a communal dining space for clergy in the 1390s, Bedern Hall’s function shifted over the centuries. By the mid-17th century, it passed into private ownership and was adapted for various uses including housing St Peter’s School during the turmoil of the English Civil War. Despite challenges in upkeep, the hall survived periods of neglect and Victorian-era slum conditions surrounding it. The 20th century saw archaeological studies and restoration efforts that uncovered and preserved its medieval features, including original window tracery and timber elements.Modern Restoration and Guild Revival
In the late 20th century, a dedicated restoration project revitalized Bedern Hall, blending the medieval fabric with modern oak and softwood replacements carefully marked to distinguish old from new. A modern annexe was added to provide contemporary facilities while respecting the historic character. Since 1980, the hall has served as the home for several of York’s surviving guilds, including the Company of Cordwainers, the Gild of Freemen, and the York Guild of Building. In 2024, the Company of Butchers established their base here, continuing the hall’s centuries-old tradition as a gathering place for trade guilds.A Living Venue in Historic Surroundings
Today, Bedern Hall is a cherished venue for weddings, events, and cultural gatherings, offering a unique atmosphere where medieval history meets modern hospitality. Its soaring beamed roof and stone floor create a memorable backdrop for celebrations, while its location in the heart of York links visitors to the city’s rich ecclesiastical and civic past. The hall’s story—from a house of prayer and dining hall to a vibrant guild and event space—reflects York’s evolving social fabric and architectural heritage.Architectural Details and Archaeological Insights
The hall’s medieval stonework and timber framing are complemented by archaeological discoveries made during redevelopment, revealing the intricate craftsmanship of the 14th century. The fan-vaulted bay window is a rare architectural gem, paralleling designs in York Minster, and the surviving medieval window tracery offers a direct visual connection to the hall’s original appearance. Restoration efforts have been meticulous, ensuring that modern interventions are identifiable while preserving the hall’s authentic medieval character.Community and Cultural Significance
Bedern Hall stands not only as a monument to medieval architecture but also as a symbol of community continuity. Its use by historic guilds ties it to York’s long-standing traditions of craft and commerce. The hall’s adaptive reuse as an event venue ensures that it remains a living part of the city’s cultural life, bridging past and present in a setting that invites reflection on York’s layered history and enduring heritage.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sundial Column
0.1 km
An elegant 18th-century sundial column on stone lions, quietly marking time just east of York Minster in a peaceful corner of the cathedral precincts.
Roman Column
0.2 km
A 7.6-metre Roman column where Constantine may have been declared Emperor, standing in the shadow of York Minster since 1971.
The Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of St Peter in York
0.2 km
A soaring Gothic masterpiece in the heart of York, where 1,400 years of faith, history, and light-filled architecture converge in one of England’s greatest cathedrals.
Ghost Hunt of York
0.2 km
Explore the haunted streets of York with the Ghost Hunt, where history and the supernatural collide in an unforgettable sightseeing experience.
The York Ghost Merchants
0.2 km
Explore a unique blend of York's ghostly history and charming souvenirs at The York Ghost Merchants, your destination for eerie collectibles.
The Norman House
0.3 km
Discover York’s oldest medieval house, a Norman stone residence with rare surviving walls and a Norman window hidden behind Stonegate.
St Crux
0.3 km
Explore the echoes of medieval York at St Crux, where a grand church’s legacy lives on in a historic parish hall and poignant tales of martyrdom.
The Stonebow
0.3 km
A historic gateway blending medieval charm and architectural evolution at York’s vibrant city heart.
Parliament St
0.3 km
York's vibrant shopping street where Victorian commerce meets medieval heritage and market tradition.
Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours (formally BOBH)
0.3 km
Discover the enchanting landscapes and rich heritage of Yorkshire with personalized tours from Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours.
York Gifts and Souvenirs
0.4 km
Explore York Gifts and Souvenirs for locally crafted treasures and unique gifts that capture the essence of York's rich history and culture.
Petergate House
0.4 km
Discover the historic Petergate House and York Oratory, where Georgian elegance meets vibrant Catholic heritage in the heart of York.
York Oratory
0.4 km
Experience the beauty and serenity of York Oratory, a stunning Catholic church and historical landmark in the heart of York, England.
Medieval Walls
0.4 km
Walk England’s longest medieval walls, tracing 2,000 years of York’s history with stunning city views and iconic fortified gateways.
Robin Hood Tower
0.4 km
Explore York’s Victorian Robin Hood Tower, a striking city wall sentinel with historic charm and captivating views of medieval defenses and York Minster.
Unmissable attractions to see
Snickleway Inn
0.0 km
Step into York’s 15th-century Snickleway Inn, a historic pub famed for its cosy charm and ghostly legends.
The Golden Slipper
0.1 km
Step into York’s medieval past at The Golden Slipper, a historic pub on Goodramgate blending centuries-old charm with traditional hospitality.
Holy Trinity Church, Goodramgate
0.1 km
Discover York’s oldest medieval church, a tranquil sanctuary with rare box pews, stunning stained glass, and rich stories of history and love.
The Bloody Tour of York
0.1 km
York's darkest stories come alive through theatrical storytelling and genuine historical insight.
Merchant Taylors' Hall
0.1 km
Step into over 600 years of history at Merchant Taylors' Hall, York’s enchanting medieval venue for weddings and events.
York City Walls
0.1 km
Discover the historical grandeur of York City Walls, the longest intact medieval town walls in England, offering stunning views and rich stories.
Monk Bar
0.1 km
Explore Monk Bar, a stunning historical landmark in York, where medieval architecture meets captivating tales of the city's rich past.
King's Sq
0.2 km
King's Square, York – where ancient history meets lively culture in the city’s vibrant heart.
Constantine the Great
0.2 km
Bronze statue of Roman Emperor Constantine the Great at York Minster, marking his historic proclamation as emperor in AD 306.
York's Chocolate Story
0.2 km
Discover York’s rich chocolate heritage through immersive tours, hands-on workshops, and delicious tastings at York’s Chocolate Story.
National Trust - Treasurer's House, York
0.2 km
Discover a historic townhouse behind York Minster, where lavish interiors, award-winning gardens, and centuries of stories await.
City Wall Walk
0.2 km
Walk atop nearly 2,000 years of history on York’s most complete medieval city walls, offering panoramic views and timeless stories at every step.
GR8escape York
0.2 km
Discover York’s top escape room centre with immersive puzzles, unique themes, and friendly hosts in the city’s historic heart.
The Deathly Dark Tours
0.2 km
Discover York’s haunted streets with a perfect mix of spooky tales and dark humor on The Deathly Dark Tours ghost walk.
York Minster
0.2 km
Explore the awe-inspiring York Minster, Northern Europe's largest Gothic cathedral, a treasure trove of art, history, and spirituality.
Essential places to dine
Fancy Hank's Bar & Kitchen
0.0 km
Experience hearty Southern American flavors and vibrant cocktails in the heart of York’s historic Minster Quarter.
Bab Tooma York
0.1 km
Experience authentic Syrian cuisine in a warm, traditional setting with generous portions and BYOB in the heart of York.
Ambiente Tapas Goodramgate
0.1 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and warm Andalusian charm in York’s historic Goodramgate, with a welcoming atmosphere and diverse vegan options.
Little Italy
0.1 km
Authentic Italian dining and deli in York’s historic heart, serving traditional flavors since 1992 in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
La Vecchia Scuola
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and contemporary dining in the heart of historic York at La Vecchia Scuola.
Wildwood
0.2 km
Cozy Italian dining with stone-baked pizzas, fresh pasta, and vegan-friendly options in the heart of historic York’s Low Petergate.
Forest
0.2 km
Charming Georgian hotel in York’s historic heart with cozy rooms and acclaimed Forest Restaurant, perfect for exploring medieval streets and local culture.
Fat Hippo York
0.2 km
Savour bold, creative burgers and dirty fries in York’s historic Low Petergate, where casual meets flavour-packed indulgence.
Côte York
0.2 km
Experience authentic Parisian brasserie dining with classic French dishes and warm hospitality in the heart of historic York.
Lucia Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience vibrant Italian dining and cocktails in York’s heart, with a heated courtyard and stylish lounge for all-day enjoyment.
D'vine Restaurant And Social Bar
0.2 km
A vibrant York venue blending British, Italian, and Mediterranean flavors with a lively social bar atmosphere.
Valhalla York
0.2 km
Experience hearty Viking-inspired tapas, unique ales, and a lively atmosphere at Valhalla York in the heart of the city.
Los Moros
0.2 km
Experience authentic North African cuisine with vibrant flavors and a rustic charm in the heart of historic York.
Arras
0.3 km
Innovative British cuisine with Mediterranean flair in a stylish, intimate setting tucked away in historic York.
House Of The Trembling Madness // Stonegate (No table bookings)
0.3 km
A medieval ale house with a vast craft beer collection, quirky charm, and hearty Yorkshire fare in the heart of historic York.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Knutti Store, a Viking Trading Post
0.0 km
Step into York’s Viking past at The Knutti Store, where authentic craftsmanship meets legendary tales in a charming trading post setting.
National Trust Gift Shop
0.1 km
Discover unique National Trust gifts and local crafts in a historic York setting supporting conservation and heritage.
Cleggs
0.1 km
Discover unique gifts, handcrafted homewares, and stylish accessories in the heart of York’s historic Goodramgate at Cleggs.
Village Shop
0.1 km
Discover timeless antiques and vintage treasures in York’s historic heart at the Village Shop, open daily with expert guidance and a warm atmosphere.
Monk Bar Model Shop
0.1 km
York’s historic model shop offering a vast selection of trains, kits, and collectibles with expert staff and a welcoming atmosphere.
Pandora
0.2 km
Discover elegant, hand-finished jewellery crafted with care and inspired by timeless style at Pandora on Low Petergate, York.
York Souvenirs and Gifts
0.2 km
Authentic Yorkshire souvenirs and handcrafted gifts in the heart of historic York’s medieval streets.
Sterling Souvenirs
0.2 km
Discover authentic York treasures and unique souvenirs at Sterling Souvenirs, your friendly gift shop in the heart of King’s Square.
The Medieval Scribe
0.2 km
Discover unique medieval-inspired crafts and artisanal treasures in the heart of York’s historic Church Street.
SOCTOPUS
0.2 km
Discover York’s playful sock boutique blending British humour, culture, and quirky style in every colourful pair.
The Cat Gallery
0.2 km
York's iconic independent gift shop celebrating all things feline since 2001.
Barghest
0.2 km
Discover Barghest, a quirky gift shop in York’s historic Shambles, offering unique film, TV, and music merchandise in a medieval setting.
Take One Gifts
0.2 km
Explore Take One Gifts in York for unique souvenirs, artisan crafts, and memorable collectibles reflecting the city's charm.
Shared Earth
0.2 km
Discover ethically sourced treasures and handcrafted fair trade gifts in the heart of historic York.
York Minster Shop
0.2 km
Discover authentic souvenirs and specialist books celebrating York Minster's medieval heritage.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Royal Oak
0.1 km
Traditional British pub charm in York’s historic heart, serving seasonal classics and local ales with a warm, dog-friendly welcome.
Vudu Lounge
0.2 km
York’s eclectic after-hours lounge blending quality cocktails with a lively, quirky nightlife vibe until the early morning.
Oscar's Wine Bar & Bistro
0.2 km
A lively and welcoming wine bar in York offering quality food, diverse wines, and a charming atmosphere for all occasions.
Pivní York
0.2 km
Historic 16th-century timber-framed pub in York offering an exceptional selection of local and global craft beers in a cosy, multi-floor setting.
Victor J's
0.3 km
Eclectic art-inspired bar and restaurant in York’s heart, offering cozy seating, creative vibes, and lively weekend nights.
Slug & Lettuce - Swinegate York
0.3 km
A lively cocktail bar and casual dining spot in York’s historic centre, perfect for social drinks, events, and weekend late nights.
Evil Eye
0.3 km
Quirky cocktails and lively entertainment blend seamlessly in York’s vibrant Evil Eye Lounge on historic Stonegate.
Bobos Cocktail Bar York
0.3 km
York’s vibrant two-floor cocktail bar with tropical drinks, heated shisha terrace, lively DJs, and unbeatable drink deals in the historic Quarter.
Ye Olde Starre Inne
0.3 km
Historic and welcoming pub on York’s Stonegate, serving hearty British classics in a charming medieval setting.
The Blue Bell
0.3 km
York’s smallest and most beloved Edwardian pub, famed for its authentic atmosphere, quality ales, and warm community spirit.
The Hop York
0.3 km
A lively York city centre bar known for its craft beers, stone-baked pizzas, and vibrant live music in a historic Victorian setting.
Golden Fleece York
0.3 km
York’s oldest haunted pub offering historic charm, classic ales, cozy rooms, and a lively social atmosphere in the heart of the city.
The Punch Bowl
0.3 km
A historic York pub blending traditional charm, eclectic ales, and hearty British fare in a cozy, welcoming setting on Stonegate.
The Fossgate Social
0.4 km
A lively independent bar and coffee shop on York’s Fossgate, known for craft drinks, specialty coffee, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Eagle & Child
0.4 km
Historic 17th-century timber-framed pub in York offering craft ales, good food, and a charming beer garden in a quaint, lively setting.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
