York Minster: Majestic Gothic Cathedral of Northern England
Explore York Minster, England’s majestic Gothic cathedral with stunning medieval stained glass and centuries of rich history and craftsmanship.
York Minster, located on Deangate in York, is one of the largest and most magnificent Gothic cathedrals in England. With origins dating back to the 7th century, the current structure took over 250 years to complete, showcasing stunning medieval architecture, Britain’s richest collection of stained glass, and significant historical and spiritual importance as the seat of the Archbishop of York.
A brief summary to York Minster
- Deangate, York, YO1 7HH, GB
- +441904557200
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Sunday 12:45 pm-3:15 pm
Local tips
- Visit the Undercroft museum to see Roman remains beneath the cathedral and learn about York’s early history.
- Don’t miss the Great East Window and the Great West Window, masterpieces of medieval stained glass artistry.
- Attend a choral service or organ performance to experience the Minster’s magnificent acoustics.
- Explore the octagonal Chapter House, notable for its unique vaulted ceiling without a central column.
- Check the Minster’s schedule for the Stone Carving Festival to see expert stonemasons at work.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Train and Walk
From York Railway Station, take a 15-20 minute walk through the city center to York Minster. The route is mostly flat and accessible, passing through historic streets. No additional cost beyond train fare, which varies depending on origin.
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Bus
Several local bus routes serve York city center with stops near York Minster. Bus travel times range from 10 to 25 minutes depending on starting point. Single fares cost approximately £2-£4. Buses run frequently during the day but less so in evenings.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in York and provide a direct route to York Minster. Typical journey times from central locations are 5-10 minutes. Fares generally range from £5 to £10 depending on distance and time of day.
York Minster 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 York Minster
A Monumental Legacy of Faith and Architecture
York Minster stands as a monumental symbol of faith and architectural mastery in Northern England. Its origins trace back to a wooden church built in 627 for the baptism of King Edwin of Northumbria, marking a pivotal moment in England’s Christian history. The current Gothic cathedral, begun around 1220 under Archbishop Walter de Gray, evolved over 250 years, incorporating Norman foundations and later Gothic expansions. The Minster’s construction was marked by ambition and resilience, overcoming financial constraints, wars, and structural challenges to become one of the kingdom’s greatest churches.Architectural Grandeur and Design Highlights
The cathedral’s architecture is a sublime blend of Norman, Gothic, and Perpendicular Gothic styles. Its vast nave, completed by 1360, is the highest and widest medieval Gothic nave in England, measuring 63 meters long, 32 meters wide, and 29 meters high. The Great West Window, known as the “Heart of Yorkshire,” and the Great East Window, the largest medieval stained glass window in the world, are masterpieces of medieval craftsmanship. The octagonal Chapter House, unique for its roof vaulting without a central column, and the intricately carved Quire Screen with statues of English kings, add to the Minster’s architectural and artistic richness.Spiritual and Cultural Significance
York Minster serves as the seat of the Archbishop of York, the second-highest office in the Church of England, making it a vital spiritual center. It hosts daily services, choral performances, and community events that foster a sense of reverence and cultural enrichment. The Minster’s medieval stained glass windows, stone carvings, and ancient artifacts offer a deep connection to England’s religious and artistic heritage. The Undercroft museum beneath the cathedral reveals Roman remains and early Christian history, enriching the visitor experience with layers of historical context.Enduring Craftsmanship and Conservation
The Minster’s ongoing preservation reflects centuries-old stonemasonry traditions, with expert craftspeople continuing to maintain and restore its fabric. Significant restoration followed fires in 1829, 1840, and 1984, including the repair of the iconic Rose Window. Conservation efforts ensure that York Minster remains a living monument, blending medieval artistry with modern care. The Great Peter bell, installed in 1845, continues to ring from the northern tower, resonating across York and connecting past and present.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Visitors to York Minster are enveloped in an atmosphere of awe and tranquility. The soaring ceilings, vast stained glass, and majestic stonework create a sense of grandeur and spiritual uplift. The choir stalls amplify the organ’s powerful music, while the Chapter House’s whimsical carvings provide glimpses into medieval society. The Minster’s role as a community hub is evident in its outreach programs and educational initiatives, making it a vibrant cultural landmark in the heart of York.York Minster’s Place in History and the City
York Minster is not only a religious center but also a historical beacon reflecting York’s significance from Roman times through the medieval period to today. Its location near the River Ouse and its survival through Viking, Norman, and Reformation upheavals underscore its resilience. The cathedral’s imposing presence and rich heritage make it a defining feature of York’s skyline and identity, embodying centuries of faith, artistry, and community life.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of St Peter in York
0.0 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
0.1 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
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 Norman House
0.1 km
Discover York’s oldest medieval house, a Norman stone residence with rare surviving walls and a Norman window hidden behind Stonegate.
Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours (formally BOBH)
0.1 km
Discover the enchanting landscapes and rich heritage of Yorkshire with personalized tours from Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours.
York Gifts and Souvenirs
0.2 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
0.2 km
Explore Bootham Bar, York’s medieval gateway with Roman roots, historic portcullis, and stunning views of the city’s ancient walls and Minster.
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.
Anglian Tower
0.3 km
Discover York’s rare Anglo-Saxon watchtower, a unique stone relic woven into ancient Roman walls and shrouded in centuries of history.
Ghost Hunt of York
0.3 km
Explore the haunted streets of York with the Ghost Hunt, where history and the supernatural collide in an unforgettable sightseeing experience.
St. Leonard's Hospital
0.3 km
Explore the evocative ruins of York’s largest medieval hospital, where healing met faith in a grand historic sanctuary.
The York Ghost Merchants
0.3 km
Explore a unique blend of York's ghostly history and charming souvenirs at The York Ghost Merchants, your destination for eerie collectibles.
Black window cat
0.3 km
Victorian architectural gem showcasing French Renaissance design and meticulous Victorian craftsmanship in historic York.
Locked in Games York
0.3 km
Experience the thrill of escaping at Locked in Games York, a top-rated escape room center perfect for families, friends, and adventurers!
Multangular Tower
0.3 km
Discover the historical Multangular Tower in York, a remarkable relic of Roman architecture nestled within the tranquil York Museum Gardens.
Unmissable attractions to see
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.
Minster Yard
0.1 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.
Dean's Park
0.1 km
A peaceful green oasis beside York Minster, blending historic charm with tranquil gardens and stunning cathedral views.
St Michael Le Belfrey
0.1 km
York’s largest Tudor parish church, rich in history, vibrant worship, and the baptism site of Guy Fawkes.
Shadows of York Ghost Walk
0.1 km
Explore York’s eerie streets on a captivating ghost walk blending history, hauntings, and theatrical storytelling for all ages.
The Bloody Tour of York
0.1 km
York's darkest stories come alive through theatrical storytelling and genuine historical insight.
National Trust - Treasurer's House, York
0.1 km
Discover a historic townhouse behind York Minster, where lavish interiors, award-winning gardens, and centuries of stories await.
The Ghost Trail Of York
0.1 km
Explore York’s haunted snickelways on a thrilling, family-friendly ghost walk beneath the gothic grandeur of York Minster.
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.
Mountain Goat Tours - York
0.1 km
Discover the rich history and breathtaking landscapes of York with Mountain Goat Tours, your gateway to unforgettable adventures in this historic city.
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.
Hole In The Wall
0.2 km
Experience the charm of Hole In The Wall in York, a historic pub offering local ales, traditional British dishes, and a warm atmosphere.
York Armoury
0.2 km
Discover authentic historical arms, armour, and movie swords in York’s premier specialist gift shop on atmospheric Stonegate.
Grand Yorkshire - Day Trips and Tours
0.2 km
Exclusive small-group day tours from York featuring vintage steam train rides and immersive journeys through Yorkshire’s scenic countryside and heritage.
Essential places to dine
Guy Fawkes Inn
0.1 km
Historic inn with cozy period rooms, lively pub, and unbeatable central location near York Minster.
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.
Côte York
0.1 km
Experience authentic Parisian brasserie dining with classic French dishes and warm hospitality in the heart of historic York.
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.
House Of The Trembling Madness // Stonegate (No table bookings)
0.1 km
A medieval ale house with a vast craft beer collection, quirky charm, and hearty Yorkshire fare in the heart of historic York.
La Vecchia Scuola
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and contemporary dining in the heart of historic York at La Vecchia Scuola.
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.
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.
Los Moros
0.2 km
Experience authentic North African cuisine with vibrant flavors and a rustic charm in the heart of historic York.
The Botanist York
0.2 km
A vibrant botanical bar and restaurant on York’s historic Stonegate, blending fresh seasonal cuisine with live music and lush, nature-inspired interiors.
Ambiente Tapas Goodramgate
0.2 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and warm Andalusian charm in York’s historic Goodramgate, with a welcoming atmosphere and diverse vegan options.
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.
Little Italy
0.2 km
Authentic Italian dining and deli in York’s historic heart, serving traditional flavors since 1992 in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
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.
Forage Kitchen & Bar
0.2 km
Refined fire-cooked dishes and inventive Yorkshire cocktails in a lush, intimate setting on York’s historic Little Stonegate.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
York Minster Shop
0.1 km
Discover authentic souvenirs and specialist books celebrating York Minster's medieval heritage.
Shared Earth
0.1 km
Discover ethically sourced treasures and handcrafted fair trade gifts in the heart of historic York.
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.
Rookscroft
0.1 km
Discover handcrafted treasures and local charm at Rookscroft, York’s cozy gift shop on historic Stonegate.
National Trust Gift Shop
0.2 km
Discover unique National Trust gifts and local crafts in a historic York setting supporting conservation and 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.
York Souvenirs and Gifts
0.2 km
Authentic Yorkshire souvenirs and handcrafted gifts in the heart of historic York’s medieval streets.
Käthe Wohlfahrt
0.2 km
Experience authentic German Christmas magic year-round in York’s historic Tudor townhouse on Stonegate.
Paper Doll
0.2 km
Discover unique, colourful fashion and artisan jewellery in York’s charming Paper Doll boutique, a hidden gem for stylish and distinctive finds.
Cleggs
0.2 km
Discover unique gifts, handcrafted homewares, and stylish accessories in the heart of York’s historic Goodramgate at Cleggs.
Monk Bar Model Shop
0.2 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.
Snowhome
0.2 km
Discover Snowhome, York’s premier independent lifestyle store blending exquisite stationery, niche perfumes, and sustainable home accessories since 2001.
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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Evil Eye
0.2 km
Quirky cocktails and lively entertainment blend seamlessly in York’s vibrant Evil Eye Lounge on historic Stonegate.
Ye Olde Starre Inne
0.2 km
Historic and welcoming pub on York’s Stonegate, serving hearty British classics in a charming medieval setting.
Eagle & Child
0.2 km
Historic 17th-century timber-framed pub in York offering craft ales, good food, and a charming beer garden in a quaint, lively setting.
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.
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.
Slug & Lettuce - Swinegate York
0.2 km
A lively cocktail bar and casual dining spot in York’s historic centre, perfect for social drinks, events, and weekend late nights.
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.
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.
Vudu Lounge
0.2 km
York’s eclectic after-hours lounge blending quality cocktails with a lively, quirky nightlife vibe until the early morning.
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
0.3 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.
House Of Trembling Madness // Lendal (No table bookings)
0.3 km
Step into York’s medieval gem where historic ambiance meets an extraordinary craft beer selection in a quirky, lively setting.
Dusk
0.3 km
A quirky and welcoming bar in York’s city centre, perfect for lively nights and casual drinks in a vibrant atmosphere.
Lendal Cellars
0.3 km
Historic underground pub with a quirky atmosphere, diverse menu, and a rare city-center beer garden in York.
Revolution York
0.4 km
Lively riverside bar and restaurant in York’s historic centre with multiple bars, garden terrace, and a vibrant atmosphere for all occasions.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
BlueBox
0.3 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
0.5 km
Experience York’s ultimate retro nightclub with decades-spanning hits, vibrant dance floors, and an inclusive party atmosphere.
Club Salvation
0.6 km
York’s vibrant nightclub with dual music rooms, lively atmosphere, and fair-priced drinks for an unforgettable night out.
Kuda
0.6 km
York’s vibrant nightclub offering diverse music, live DJs, and a lively late-night atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Popworld York
0.6 km
York’s vibrant pop music nightclub with a unique revolving dancefloor and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Ziggy's Bar & Nightclub
0.7 km
York’s iconic student nightclub offering energetic dance floors, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere since the 1980s.
Bar 55 York
0.7 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
33.8 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
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie 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
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
