Treasurer's House, York: A Historic Jewel of York Minster's Legacy
Step into Treasurer’s House, York’s historic townhouse blending Roman roots, royal visits, and a collector’s vision into a timeless heritage experience.
Treasurer's House in York is a Grade I listed historic townhouse, once home to the medieval treasurers of York Minster. Restored by Frank Green in the early 20th century, it showcases 13 period rooms filled with antique collections and retains its rich history, including royal visits and ghost stories. Nestled beside York Minster, it offers an immersive journey through centuries of English history and architecture.
A brief summary to National Trust - Treasurer's House, York
- Minster Yard, York, YO1 7JL, GB
- +441904624247
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 11 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 11 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-4 pm
- Sunday 11 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Join the guided tours to fully appreciate the 13 period rooms and hear stories about Frank Green and the house’s royal visitors.
- Visit during the festive season to enjoy the house decorated with unique Christmas themes and seasonal treats.
- Look out for the floor studs marking exact furniture placement, a testament to Frank Green’s meticulous care.
- Explore the cellar area to sense the Roman road beneath and learn about the house’s ancient foundations.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
- Seating Areas
Getting There
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Bus
Take local bus services from York city center to the stop at York Minster, approximately 10-15 minutes travel time. Buses run frequently throughout the day. Walking from the stop to Treasurer’s House takes about 5 minutes. Tickets cost around £2-£4.
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Walking
From York city center, a flat and accessible walk of about 10-15 minutes leads to Treasurer’s House, located on Minster Yard beside York Minster. The route is suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
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Cycling
York offers extensive cycle routes with public cycle parking approximately 100 meters from Treasurer’s House on College Street. Cycling is a convenient and eco-friendly way to visit, with connections to National Cycle Network routes including the Way of the Roses.
National Trust - Treasurer's House, York 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 National Trust - Treasurer's House, York
Foundations of Power and Prestige
Treasurer's House stands on a site steeped in history, originally built for the medieval Treasurers of York Minster, who were appointed as early as 1091 AD. The Treasurer was responsible for the Minster's finances and hosting important guests, necessitating a grand residence. While much of the original medieval structure has vanished, a 12th-century external wall remains, anchoring the house to its Norman roots. Beneath it lies the Via Decumana, a Roman road that once formed a vital artery of the city, linking the house to York’s ancient past.Transformation Through the Ages
The house underwent significant rebuilding in the early 17th century under the stewardship of Archbishop Thomas Young and his descendants, resulting in the symmetrical façade visible today. It hosted King James I in 1617, marking its status as a prestigious residence. Over the centuries, the house was divided into multiple dwellings and altered by various owners, eventually falling into disrepair by the late 19th century.Frank Green’s Vision and Restoration
In 1897, industrialist and collector Frank Green purchased the fragmented properties and embarked on a meticulous restoration to return Treasurer's House to a unified and elegant home. Collaborating with architect Temple Moore, Green removed later additions and created 13 period-themed rooms to display his extensive collection of antiques, furniture, art, and curios. His precise nature is evident in the floor studs marking exact furniture placement and the strict rules he imposed on household staff. Green’s dedication culminated in the house becoming a showcase of historical interiors by 1900.A Royal Residence and Cultural Hub
The house’s grandeur attracted royal visitors, including King Edward VII and Queen Alexandra in 1900, whose visit inspired the naming of the King’s Room, Queen’s Room, and Princess Victoria’s Room. Frank Green hosted lavish parties with guests dressed in period attire and musicians playing from the Minstrels’ Gallery, cementing Treasurer’s House as a social and cultural landmark in York.Legacy and Mystique
In 1930, Green gifted the house and its entire collection to the National Trust, with the condition that the rooms remain exactly as he left them. This bequest marked Treasurer's House as the first National Trust property to be donated complete with its contents. The house is also famed for its ghost stories, including sightings of the ‘Gray Lady’ and mysterious phenomena around the cellar Roman road. Visitors can explore the richly decorated rooms and sense the layers of history and personality embedded in the walls.Present-Day Experience
Today, Treasurer's House offers guided tours through its historic rooms, revealing tales of its past residents, architectural evolution, and Frank Green’s unique influence. Located beside York Minster in the city center, it is a vital part of York’s heritage, blending Roman, medieval, Tudor, and Victorian elements. Seasonal events, such as festive Christmas decorations, add to the house’s charm, making it a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and cultural travelers alike.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.
The Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of St Peter in York
0.1 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.
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.
Medieval Walls
0.2 km
Walk England’s longest medieval walls, tracing 2,000 years of York’s history with stunning city views and iconic fortified gateways.
Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours (formally BOBH)
0.2 km
Discover the enchanting landscapes and rich heritage of Yorkshire with personalized tours from Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours.
The Norman House
0.2 km
Discover York’s oldest medieval house, a Norman stone residence with rare surviving walls and a Norman window hidden behind Stonegate.
York Gifts and Souvenirs
0.2 km
Explore York Gifts and Souvenirs for locally crafted treasures and unique gifts that capture the essence of York's rich history and culture.
Bootham Bar
0.3 km
Explore Bootham Bar, York’s medieval gateway with Roman roots, historic portcullis, and stunning views of the city’s ancient walls and Minster.
Ghost Hunt of York
0.4 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
0.4 km
Explore a unique blend of York's ghostly history and charming souvenirs at The York Ghost Merchants, your destination for eerie collectibles.
Anglian Tower
0.4 km
Discover York’s rare Anglo-Saxon watchtower, a unique stone relic woven into ancient Roman walls and shrouded in centuries of history.
Shambles Market
0.4 km
Discover York’s vibrant Shambles Market, where historic charm meets artisan crafts and global street food in a lively covered marketplace.
Shrine of Saint Margaret Clitherow
0.4 km
Explore the Shrine of Saint Margaret Clitherow in York, a serene sanctuary steeped in history and spiritual significance, perfect for reflection and discovery.
Visit York Information Centre & Gift Shop
0.4 km
Discover York's rich history and vibrant culture at the Visit York Information Centre & Gift Shop, your gateway to unforgettable experiences.
St. Leonard's Hospital
0.4 km
Explore the evocative ruins of York’s largest medieval hospital, where healing met faith in a grand historic sanctuary.
Unmissable attractions to see
Minster Yard
0.0 km
Historic Minster Yard in York surrounds the majestic York Minster, blending medieval heritage, stunning Gothic architecture, and vibrant cultural life.
Chapter House
0.1 km
Medieval masterpiece where timber vaults defy gravity and Parliament once convened in octagonal splendor.
The Bloody Tour of York
0.1 km
York's darkest stories come alive through theatrical storytelling and genuine historical insight.
City Wall Walk
0.1 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.
York Minster
0.1 km
Explore the awe-inspiring York Minster, Northern Europe's largest Gothic cathedral, a treasure trove of art, history, and spirituality.
Dean's Park
0.1 km
A peaceful green oasis beside York Minster, blending historic charm with tranquil gardens and stunning cathedral views.
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.
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.
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.
Snickleway Inn
0.2 km
Step into York’s 15th-century Snickleway Inn, a historic pub famed for its cosy charm and ghostly legends.
St Michael Le Belfrey
0.2 km
York’s largest Tudor parish church, rich in history, vibrant worship, and the baptism site of Guy Fawkes.
Robin Hood Tower
0.2 km
Explore the enchanting Robin Hood Tower in York, a historical landmark steeped in folklore and rich architectural beauty.
Bedern Hall
0.2 km
Step into Bedern Hall, a stunning medieval guild hall in York where history, architecture, and community converge in timeless elegance.
Shadows of York Ghost Walk
0.2 km
Explore York’s eerie streets on a captivating ghost walk blending history, hauntings, and theatrical storytelling for all ages.
The Ghost Trail Of York
0.2 km
Explore York’s haunted snickelways on a thrilling, family-friendly ghost walk beneath the gothic grandeur of York Minster.
Essential places to dine
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.
Fancy Hank's Bar & Kitchen
0.2 km
Experience hearty Southern American flavors and vibrant cocktails in the heart of York’s historic Minster Quarter.
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.
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.
Côte York
0.2 km
Experience authentic Parisian brasserie dining with classic French dishes and warm hospitality in the heart of historic York.
Guy Fawkes Inn
0.2 km
Historic inn with cozy period rooms, lively pub, and unbeatable central location near York Minster.
La Vecchia Scuola
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and contemporary dining in the heart of historic York at La Vecchia Scuola.
Bab Tooma York
0.2 km
Experience authentic Syrian cuisine in a warm, traditional setting with generous portions and BYOB in the heart of York.
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.
Lucia Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience vibrant Italian dining and cocktails in York’s heart, with a heated courtyard and stylish lounge for all-day enjoyment.
Wildwood
0.3 km
Cozy Italian dining with stone-baked pizzas, fresh pasta, and vegan-friendly options in the heart of historic York’s Low Petergate.
Los Moros
0.3 km
Experience authentic North African cuisine with vibrant flavors and a rustic charm in the heart of historic York.
The Botanist York
0.3 km
A vibrant botanical bar and restaurant on York’s historic Stonegate, blending fresh seasonal cuisine with live music and lush, nature-inspired interiors.
D'vine Restaurant And Social Bar
0.3 km
A vibrant York venue blending British, Italian, and Mediterranean flavors with a lively social bar atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
National Trust Gift Shop
0.1 km
Discover unique National Trust gifts and local crafts in a historic York setting supporting conservation and heritage.
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.
Cleggs
0.1 km
Discover unique gifts, handcrafted homewares, and stylish accessories in the heart of York’s historic Goodramgate at Cleggs.
Village Shop
0.2 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.
York Minster Shop
0.2 km
Discover authentic souvenirs and specialist books celebrating York Minster's medieval heritage.
The Knutti Store, a Viking Trading Post
0.2 km
Step into York’s Viking past at The Knutti Store, where authentic craftsmanship meets legendary tales in a charming trading post setting.
SOCTOPUS
0.2 km
Discover York’s playful sock boutique blending British humour, culture, and quirky style in every colourful pair.
Shared Earth
0.2 km
Discover ethically sourced treasures and handcrafted fair trade gifts in the heart of historic York.
The Cat Gallery
0.2 km
York's iconic independent gift shop celebrating all things feline since 2001.
Rookscroft
0.2 km
Discover handcrafted treasures and local charm at Rookscroft, York’s cozy gift shop on historic Stonegate.
Snowhome
0.2 km
Discover Snowhome, York’s premier independent lifestyle store blending exquisite stationery, niche perfumes, and sustainable home accessories since 2001.
York Souvenirs and Gifts
0.3 km
Authentic Yorkshire souvenirs and handcrafted gifts in the heart of historic York’s medieval streets.
Fairer World
0.3 km
Discover unique fair trade treasures and support global artisans at York’s dedicated ethical gift shop on historic Gillygate.
Pandora
0.3 km
Discover elegant, hand-finished jewellery crafted with care and inspired by timeless style at Pandora on Low Petergate, York.
Käthe Wohlfahrt
0.3 km
Experience authentic German Christmas magic year-round in York’s historic Tudor townhouse on Stonegate.
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.
Eagle & Child
0.3 km
Historic 17th-century timber-framed pub in York offering craft ales, good food, and a charming beer garden in a quaint, lively setting.
Evil Eye
0.3 km
Quirky cocktails and lively entertainment blend seamlessly in York’s vibrant Evil Eye Lounge on historic Stonegate.
Ye Olde Starre Inne
0.3 km
Historic and welcoming pub on York’s Stonegate, serving hearty British classics in a charming medieval setting.
Oscar's Wine Bar & Bistro
0.3 km
A lively and welcoming wine bar in York offering quality food, diverse wines, and a charming atmosphere for all occasions.
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.
Vudu Lounge
0.3 km
York’s eclectic after-hours lounge blending quality cocktails with a lively, quirky nightlife vibe until the early morning.
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.
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.
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.
Pivní York
0.4 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.
Dusk
0.4 km
A quirky and welcoming bar in York’s city centre, perfect for lively nights and casual drinks in a vibrant atmosphere.
House Of Trembling Madness // Lendal (No table bookings)
0.4 km
Step into York’s medieval gem where historic ambiance meets an extraordinary craft beer selection in a quirky, lively setting.
Lendal Cellars
0.4 km
Historic underground pub with a quirky atmosphere, diverse menu, and a rare city-center beer garden in York.
The Black Swan
0.5 km
Medieval timber-framed pub with 17th-century interiors and live cultural performances in historic York.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
BlueBox
0.4 km
York’s premier late-night nightclub, BlueBox pulses with House, Tech House, and Disco beats until dawn in a vibrant city-center setting.
Flares - York
0.6 km
Experience York’s ultimate retro nightclub with decades-spanning hits, vibrant dance floors, and an inclusive party atmosphere.
Club Salvation
0.7 km
York’s vibrant nightclub with dual music rooms, lively atmosphere, and fair-priced drinks for an unforgettable night out.
Kuda
0.7 km
York’s vibrant nightclub offering diverse music, live DJs, and a lively late-night atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Popworld York
0.7 km
York’s vibrant pop music nightclub with a unique revolving dancefloor and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Ziggy's Bar & Nightclub
0.8 km
York’s iconic student nightclub offering energetic dance floors, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere since the 1980s.
Bar 55 York
0.8 km
York’s exclusive strip club offering sophisticated adult entertainment and premium nightlife in a stylish, historic setting.
Karaoke Rooms (KTV)
1.3 km
Experience lively private karaoke rooms in the heart of York’s vibrant nightlife at Chuandao Karaoke Bar.
Big Fellas Nightclub
33.9 km
A lively and casual nightclub in Pontefract offering energetic late-night dancing and drinks in a central urban setting.
Arabian Night Lounge
34.3 km
Dive into Arabian enchantment on Leeds' nightlife scene: shisha, beats, and opulent vibes await at this Cherry Row gem.
Quadrophenia Night
34.9 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
35.1 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
35.1 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
35.3 km
Intimate, no-frills live-music club in central Leeds where punk, indie and alternative acts play close and loud beneath Merrion Street.
PRYZM
35.3 km
Leeds' multi-themed superclub where futuristic beats meet quirky rooms in the heart of Arena Quarter nightlife.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Unique
- Tranquil
- Cultural Heritage
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Myth & Legends
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
- Vegetarian Friendly
