Holy Trinity Church, Goodramgate, York
Discover York’s oldest medieval church, a tranquil sanctuary with rare box pews, stunning stained glass, and rich stories of history and love.
Holy Trinity Church on Goodramgate is York’s oldest medieval church within the city walls, dating from the 12th to 15th centuries. Nestled in a secluded leafy churchyard behind the bustling shopping street, it features rare medieval box pews, magnificent 15th-century stained glass, and a unique saddleback roof. The church is renowned for its rich history, including connections to notable figures like George Hudson and Anne Lister, and remains a quiet, evocative space with candlelit services.
A brief summary to Holy Trinity Church, Goodramgate
- Goodramgate, York, YO1 7LF, GB
- +441132441689
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Wednesday 11 am-4 pm
- Thursday 11 am-4 pm
- Friday 11 am-4 pm
- Saturday 11 am-4 pm
- Sunday 11 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the stained glass windows and the church’s historic interior details.
- Attend one of the occasional candlelit services for a unique atmospheric experience.
- Look for the rainbow plaque commemorating Anne Lister and Ann Walker’s historic union.
- Explore the adjacent Our Lady’s Row to see some of the oldest surviving houses in England.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train
From York railway station, take a taxi or a 15-20 minute walk to Holy Trinity Church. The station is about 0.8 km away. Taxi fares typically range from £5 to £8.
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Bus
Bus route 14A serves the city centre with stops near Goodramgate. From the main bus station, travel times are approximately 10-15 minutes. Single fares cost around £2-£3.
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Walking
From York city centre landmarks such as King's Square or The Shambles, it is a 5-10 minute walk along cobbled streets. The terrain is mostly flat but includes some uneven surfaces and historic paving.
Holy Trinity Church, Goodramgate location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Holy Trinity Church, Goodramgate
A Medieval Sanctuary Hidden in York’s Heart
Holy Trinity Church stands quietly tucked away behind Goodramgate, one of York’s busiest shopping streets, in a small, leafy churchyard overshadowed by the towering York Minster. This secluded setting offers a striking contrast to the bustling city centre, inviting visitors into a medieval world preserved through centuries. The church’s origins trace back to the 12th century, with the earliest fabric dating from around 1250, though much of the visible structure was completed in the 15th century. Its distinctive saddleback roof, a rare double-sloping design, crowns the building and marks it as a unique architectural treasure within York.Architecture and Interior Features of Timeless Character
The church’s interior is remarkable for its exceptionally well-preserved box pews, dating from the 17th and 18th centuries. These high-sided wooden pews provided families with privacy and shelter from draughts, a feature unique in York. The uneven floors and listing arcades speak to the building’s organic growth over centuries, adding to its authentic medieval charm. Light filters softly through the marvellous stained glass windows, especially the grand east window installed in 1470, donated by Reverend John Walker. This window vividly depicts the Holy Trinity, St George and the Dragon, St John the Baptist, St Christopher carrying the baby Jesus, and St William of York, with Walker himself portrayed kneeling at the base.Historical Figures and Stories Embedded in the Church
Holy Trinity is steeped in local history, commemorating notable figures such as George Hudson, the “Railway King” and thrice Lord Mayor of York, who married here in 1821. His name appears on one of the church’s distinctive boards listing York’s Lord Mayors. Another profound story is that of Anne Lister and Ann Walker, whose 1834 communion at Holy Trinity is regarded as one of the earliest recorded same-sex unions in the UK. Their lives and relationship were immortalised in Lister’s diaries and the BBC series "Gentleman Jack," with a rainbow plaque now marking this quietly revolutionary moment at the church entrance.A Place of Worship and Cultural Heritage
Though no longer a regular parish church, Holy Trinity still holds occasional services, including morning communion and evensong on Trinity Sunday and an Advent carol service. The church has no electricity and is lit by approximately 150 candles during these rare services, creating a deeply atmospheric and contemplative environment. The acoustics are excellent, and the historic pulpit, dating from 1695, remains in use. Visitors can also explore the churchyard, where weathered gravestones tell stories of York’s past residents, including William Richardson, a 17th-century Lord Mayor remembered as the “poor man’s friend.”The Surrounding Historic Context and Conservation
Adjacent to Holy Trinity is Our Lady’s Row, a row of timber-framed medieval cottages dating back to 1316, among the oldest surviving houses in England. The churchyard is accessed through an 18th-century archway, once part of artisans’ workshops from the 14th century. Holy Trinity is a Grade I listed building under the care of the Churches Conservation Trust since 1972, preserving its medieval fabric and unique features for future generations. The church’s lack of modern alterations offers a rare glimpse into post-Reformation ecclesiastical architecture and community life.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Visiting Holy Trinity is like stepping back in time. The quiet, candlelit interior, the warm honey-coloured stone, and the filtered light through stained glass create a tranquil, almost sacred ambience. The church’s intimate scale and historic pews invite reflection, while the surrounding churchyard and medieval street setting enrich the sense of place. It is a sanctuary of cultural heritage, spirituality, and storytelling, offering a unique experience in the heart of York’s historic city centre.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Roman Column
0.1 km
A 7.6-metre Roman column where Constantine may have been declared Emperor, standing in the shadow of York Minster since 1971.
Sundial Column
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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.
Ghost Hunt of York
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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
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Explore a unique blend of York's ghostly history and charming souvenirs at The York Ghost Merchants, your destination for eerie collectibles.
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.
The Norman House
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Discover York’s oldest medieval house, a Norman stone residence with rare surviving walls and a Norman window hidden behind Stonegate.
St Crux
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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.
Parliament St
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York's vibrant shopping street where Victorian commerce meets medieval heritage and market tradition.
Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours (formally BOBH)
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Discover the enchanting landscapes and rich heritage of Yorkshire with personalized tours from Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours.
York Gifts and Souvenirs
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Explore York Gifts and Souvenirs for locally crafted treasures and unique gifts that capture the essence of York's rich history and culture.
The Stonebow
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A historic gateway blending medieval charm and architectural evolution at York’s vibrant city heart.
York Mansion House
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Explore York Mansion House, a Georgian gem in the heart of York, showcasing the rich history and elegant lifestyle of the 18th century.
The York Cat Trail
0.3 km
Explore the York Cat Trail: A delightful journey through York's streets, where whimsical cat sculptures blend art, history, and fun.
St Anthonys Garden
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Explore St Anthony's Garden in York, a serene retreat filled with lush greenery and vibrant flowers, perfect for relaxation and contemplation.
Parish of All Saints, Pavement
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Explore the serene beauty and rich history of the Parish of All Saints, Pavement - a majestic Anglican church in the heart of York, England.
Unmissable attractions to see
Snickleway Inn
0.1 km
Step into York’s 15th-century Snickleway Inn, a historic pub famed for its cosy charm and ghostly legends.
King's Sq
0.1 km
King's Square, York – where ancient history meets lively culture in the city’s vibrant heart.
The Deathly Dark Tours
0.1 km
Discover York’s haunted streets with a perfect mix of spooky tales and dark humor on The Deathly Dark Tours ghost walk.
York's Chocolate Story
0.1 km
Discover York’s rich chocolate heritage through immersive tours, hands-on workshops, and delicious tastings at York’s Chocolate Story.
Bedern Hall
0.1 km
Step into Bedern Hall, a stunning medieval guild hall in York where history, architecture, and community converge in timeless elegance.
Constantine the Great
0.1 km
Bronze statue of Roman Emperor Constantine the Great at York Minster, marking his historic proclamation as emperor in AD 306.
The Antiques Centre York
0.1 km
York’s largest antiques emporium on historic Stonegate, offering diverse treasures across three floors in a vibrant community setting.
GR8escape York
0.1 km
Discover York’s top escape room centre with immersive puzzles, unique themes, and friendly hosts in the city’s historic heart.
Barley Hall
0.1 km
Step into Barley Hall, York’s beautifully restored medieval townhouse, and experience the vibrant domestic life of 14th-century England.
The Bloody Tour of York
0.1 km
York's darkest stories come alive through theatrical storytelling and genuine historical insight.
Coffee yard
0.1 km
Discover the quiet charm and medieval heritage of Coffee Yard, a historic snickelway nestled in the heart of York’s old city.
Roman Bath
0.1 km
Discover York’s unique Roman Bath pub where ancient history meets vibrant local hospitality beneath your feet.
Peregrine Falcon Mural
0.2 km
Discover the awe-inspiring Peregrine Falcon Mural in York, a vibrant piece of street art that captures the city's rich culture and artistic spirit.
The Golden Slipper
0.2 km
Step into York’s medieval past at The Golden Slipper, a historic pub on Goodramgate blending centuries-old charm with traditional hospitality.
11 Shambles
0.2 km
Step into medieval York at 11 Shambles, where timber-framed buildings and cobbled streets tell tales of centuries-old butcher shops and vibrant history.
Essential places to dine
Bab Tooma York
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Experience authentic Syrian cuisine in a warm, traditional setting with generous portions and BYOB in the heart of York.
La Vecchia Scuola
0.1 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and contemporary dining in the heart of historic York at La Vecchia Scuola.
Wildwood
0.1 km
Cozy Italian dining with stone-baked pizzas, fresh pasta, and vegan-friendly options in the heart of historic York’s Low Petergate.
Forest
0.1 km
Charming Georgian hotel in York’s historic heart with cozy rooms and acclaimed Forest Restaurant, perfect for exploring medieval streets and local culture.
Fancy Hank's Bar & Kitchen
0.1 km
Experience hearty Southern American flavors and vibrant cocktails in the heart of York’s historic Minster Quarter.
Fat Hippo York
0.1 km
Savour bold, creative burgers and dirty fries in York’s historic Low Petergate, where casual meets flavour-packed indulgence.
Lucia Restaurant
0.1 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
0.1 km
A vibrant York venue blending British, Italian, and Mediterranean flavors with a lively social bar atmosphere.
Côte York
0.1 km
Experience authentic Parisian brasserie dining with classic French dishes and warm hospitality in the heart of historic York.
Los Moros
0.1 km
Experience authentic North African cuisine with vibrant flavors and a rustic charm in the heart of historic York.
Valhalla York
0.1 km
Experience hearty Viking-inspired tapas, unique ales, and a lively atmosphere at Valhalla York in the heart of the city.
Las Iguanas - York
0.1 km
Experience vibrant Latin American flavours and lively cocktails in York’s historic city centre at Las Iguanas.
The Cut & Craft York
0.1 km
Stylish steakhouse in York’s historic St. Sampson’s Square, famed for premium cuts, craft beers, and inviting modern ambiance.
House Of The Trembling Madness // Stonegate (No table bookings)
0.2 km
A medieval ale house with a vast craft beer collection, quirky charm, and hearty Yorkshire fare in the heart of historic York.
Turtle Bay York
0.2 km
Experience authentic Caribbean flavors and vibrant island vibes in the heart of historic York at Turtle Bay.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Pandora
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Discover elegant, hand-finished jewellery crafted with care and inspired by timeless style at Pandora on Low Petergate, York.
York Souvenirs and Gifts
0.1 km
Authentic Yorkshire souvenirs and handcrafted gifts in the heart of historic York’s medieval streets.
The Knutti Store, a Viking Trading Post
0.1 km
Step into York’s Viking past at The Knutti Store, where authentic craftsmanship meets legendary tales in a charming trading post setting.
The Medieval Scribe
0.1 km
Discover unique medieval-inspired crafts and artisanal treasures in the heart of York’s historic Church Street.
Sterling Souvenirs
0.1 km
Discover authentic York treasures and unique souvenirs at Sterling Souvenirs, your friendly gift shop in the heart of King’s Square.
SOCTOPUS
0.1 km
Discover York’s playful sock boutique blending British humour, culture, and quirky style in every colourful pair.
The Cat Gallery
0.1 km
York's iconic independent gift shop celebrating all things feline since 2001.
Paper Doll
0.1 km
Discover unique, colourful fashion and artisan jewellery in York’s charming Paper Doll boutique, a hidden gem for stylish and distinctive finds.
National Trust Gift Shop
0.1 km
Discover unique National Trust gifts and local crafts in a historic York setting supporting conservation and heritage.
Cello by Collectables
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Explore Cello by Collectables, a charming gift shop in York offering unique handcrafted treasures that embody the city's rich culture.
Barghest
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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
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Explore Take One Gifts in York for unique souvenirs, artisan crafts, and memorable collectibles reflecting the city's charm.
Shared Earth
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Discover ethically sourced treasures and handcrafted fair trade gifts in the heart of historic York.
Rookscroft
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Discover handcrafted treasures and local charm at Rookscroft, York’s cozy gift shop on historic Stonegate.
York Minster Shop
0.2 km
Discover authentic souvenirs and specialist books celebrating York Minster's medieval heritage.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Oscar's Wine Bar & Bistro
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A lively and welcoming wine bar in York offering quality food, diverse wines, and a charming atmosphere for all occasions.
Vudu Lounge
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York’s eclectic after-hours lounge blending quality cocktails with a lively, quirky nightlife vibe until the early morning.
Victor J's
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Eclectic art-inspired bar and restaurant in York’s heart, offering cozy seating, creative vibes, and lively weekend nights.
Pivní York
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Historic 16th-century timber-framed pub in York offering an exceptional selection of local and global craft beers in a cosy, multi-floor setting.
Slug & Lettuce - Swinegate York
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A lively cocktail bar and casual dining spot in York’s historic centre, perfect for social drinks, events, and weekend late nights.
Royal Oak
0.2 km
Traditional British pub charm in York’s historic heart, serving seasonal classics and local ales with a warm, dog-friendly welcome.
Evil Eye
0.2 km
Quirky cocktails and lively entertainment blend seamlessly in York’s vibrant Evil Eye Lounge on historic Stonegate.
Bobos Cocktail Bar York
0.2 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
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Historic and welcoming pub on York’s Stonegate, serving hearty British classics in a charming medieval setting.
The Punch Bowl
0.2 km
A historic York pub blending traditional charm, eclectic ales, and hearty British fare in a cozy, welcoming setting on Stonegate.
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.
Dusk
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A quirky and welcoming bar in York’s city centre, perfect for lively nights and casual drinks in a vibrant atmosphere.
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.
Social 8 Lounge
0.3 km
Stylish York lounge bar offering crafted cocktails, small plates, and boozy brunch in a relaxed, elegant setting with a courtyard garden.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
BlueBox
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York’s premier late-night nightclub, BlueBox pulses with House, Tech House, and Disco beats until dawn in a vibrant city-center setting.
Kuda
0.5 km
York’s vibrant nightclub offering diverse music, live DJs, and a lively late-night atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Flares - York
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Experience York’s ultimate retro nightclub with decades-spanning hits, vibrant dance floors, and an inclusive party atmosphere.
Club Salvation
0.5 km
York’s vibrant nightclub with dual music rooms, lively atmosphere, and fair-priced drinks for an unforgettable night out.
Popworld York
0.6 km
York’s vibrant pop music nightclub with a unique revolving dancefloor and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Ziggy's Bar & Nightclub
0.6 km
York’s iconic student nightclub offering energetic dance floors, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere since the 1980s.
Bar 55 York
0.6 km
York’s exclusive strip club offering sophisticated adult entertainment and premium nightlife in a stylish, historic setting.
Karaoke Rooms (KTV)
1.1 km
Experience lively private karaoke rooms in the heart of York’s vibrant nightlife at Chuandao Karaoke Bar.
Big Fellas Nightclub
33.7 km
A lively and casual nightclub in Pontefract offering energetic late-night dancing and drinks in a central urban setting.
Arabian Night Lounge
34.2 km
Dive into Arabian enchantment on Leeds' nightlife scene: shisha, beats, and opulent vibes await at this Cherry Row gem.
Quadrophenia Night
34.8 km
Rev up for mod anthems, live ska-soul bands, and 60s film vibes at Leeds' ultimate Quadrophenia tribute night—pure energy and rebellion on the dancefloor.
Disco Stu's
35.0 km
Pulse-pounding beats and sticky-floored euphoria on Vicar Lane—Disco Stu's delivers unfiltered Leeds nightlife with affordable drinks and all-night energy.
The Lab Nightclub Leeds
35.0 km
Experience Leeds' electric nightlife at The Lab Nightclub, where music flows smoothly and the party never stops in the heart of the city.
The Key Club
35.2 km
Intimate, no-frills live-music club in central Leeds where punk, indie and alternative acts play close and loud beneath Merrion Street.
PRYZM
35.2 km
Leeds' multi-themed superclub where futuristic beats meet quirky rooms in the heart of Arena Quarter nightlife.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Historic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
