Barley Hall: York’s Hidden Medieval Townhouse
Step into a beautifully restored 14th-century medieval townhouse in York, where history and hands-on discovery bring the past vividly to life.
Barley Hall is a meticulously restored 14th-century medieval townhouse tucked away in York’s historic city centre. Once home to the Priors of Nostell and a former Mayor of York, it offers visitors an immersive experience of medieval life with authentic architecture, engaging exhibits, and hands-on activities. Its compact size and rich history make it a rewarding stop for history enthusiasts and families alike.
A brief summary to Barley Hall
- 2 Coffee Yard, York, YO1 8AR, GB
- +441904615505
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Pre-book your tickets online or by phone to secure your preferred visit time and avoid disappointment.
- Look for Coffee Yard off Stonegate to find the discreet entrance to Barley Hall.
- Allow 1 to 1.5 hours to fully explore the hall, watch the introductory video, and enjoy interactive exhibits.
- Families will enjoy the hands-on activities like dressing up and traditional medieval games.
- Combine your visit with other nearby attractions such as The Shambles and York Minster for a full day of history.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train and Walk
Arrive at York train station and enjoy a 15 to 20-minute walk through York’s historic streets to Coffee Yard, where Barley Hall is located. The route is mostly flat but includes cobbled surfaces. No additional cost beyond train fare.
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Bus
Take local city centre buses to stops near Stonegate or the Shambles. From there, it is a 5 to 10-minute walk to Barley Hall. Bus fares typically range between £2 to £4 depending on the route and operator.
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Taxi
Taxis are available throughout York city centre and can drop you close to Coffee Yard. Travel time from the train station or central locations is about 5 to 10 minutes. Expect fares around £5 to £10.
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Walking
If staying nearby, walking is ideal. The area features narrow medieval streets and cobblestones, so comfortable footwear is recommended. The walk from York Minster takes about 7 minutes.
Barley 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 Barley Hall
A Rediscovered Medieval Treasure in York
Barley Hall is a remarkable medieval townhouse originally built in the 14th century and rediscovered in the 1980s beneath modern facades. Once the city residence of the Priors of Nostell and later the home of William Snawsell, a goldsmith and Lord Mayor of York, the hall captures the essence of medieval urban life. The restoration revealed stunning architectural features such as high ceilings, exposed timber frames, and a magnificent Great Hall, allowing visitors to step back in time and experience the grandeur of a medieval home.Authentic Atmosphere and Engaging Exhibits
The hall’s interiors have been carefully restored to reflect their original medieval character. Visitors can explore the Great Hall, pantry, and living quarters, all furnished to evoke the period’s domestic life. Interactive displays and hands-on activities, including dressing in period costumes and playing traditional games, enrich the experience. Special exhibitions like “Beasts at Barley Hall” delve into the role of animals in medieval society, showcasing fascinating artefacts such as a porcupine’s quill and a 15th-century dog collar, alongside accessible interpretation boards and audio stories.Educational and Family-Friendly Experience
Barley Hall offers a compact yet deeply rewarding visit, typically lasting around 1 to 1.5 hours. The attraction is well-suited for families, with plenty of child-friendly activities and opportunities for learning through play. Knowledgeable and passionate staff enhance the visit by sharing insights and answering questions. The hall’s intimate scale makes it manageable for visitors of all ages, providing a personal glimpse into York’s medieval past.Location and Accessibility
Nestled in Coffee Yard off Stonegate, Barley Hall is a hidden gem within York’s historic core, close to other major attractions such as The Shambles and York Minster. While the building’s historic nature means there are steps and raised thresholds, there is a temporary ramp for wheelchair access to key areas like the Great Hall. Sensory packs and accessible interpretation materials are available, though some parts of the hall remain challenging for those with mobility impairments.Visiting Details and Practical Information
Barley Hall is open daily with seasonal hours, generally from 10am to 3:30pm during the winter months and extended hours in summer. Admission includes unlimited free re-entry for 12 months and access to special exhibitions. Tickets can be purchased individually or as part of a Pastport, which grants entry to multiple York attractions. Nearby amenities include cafes and restrooms, though there is no on-site café. Pre-booking is recommended, especially for groups.Preserving York’s Medieval Heritage
The restoration of Barley Hall is a testament to York Archaeological Trust’s dedication to preserving the city’s rich history. The hall not only showcases medieval architecture but also brings to life the stories of its former residents and the broader social and cultural context of medieval York. It stands as a vibrant educational resource and a captivating destination for visitors eager to explore England’s past.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Norman House
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Roman Column
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Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours (formally BOBH)
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The Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of St Peter in York
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The York Ghost Merchants
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Sundial Column
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York Gifts and Souvenirs
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Parliament St
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St. Leonard's Hospital
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National Trust - Treasurer's House, York
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Bootham Bar
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Anglian Tower
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Wizard Walk of York - WINNER Best Tour and Best of York Award!
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St Crux
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Unmissable attractions to see
Coffee yard
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The Deathly Dark Tours
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York Armoury
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The Antiques Centre York
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York’s largest antiques emporium on historic Stonegate, offering diverse treasures across three floors in a vibrant community setting.
Peregrine Falcon Mural
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Stonegate
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Discover Stonegate, York’s historic street where Roman roots meet medieval charm and vibrant cultural heritage in the city’s heart.
Roman Bath
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Discover York’s unique Roman Bath pub where ancient history meets vibrant local hospitality beneath your feet.
St Michael Le Belfrey
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York’s largest Tudor parish church, rich in history, vibrant worship, and the baptism site of Guy Fawkes.
The York Ghost Walk
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Discover York’s haunted history through an atmospheric evening walk filled with ghostly tales and historic intrigue around Davygate.
Shadows of York Ghost Walk
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Constantine the Great
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Yorkshire Wheel
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Holy Trinity Church, Goodramgate
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Mountain Goat Tours - York
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Mannion & Co
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Essential places to dine
Los Moros
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Lucia Restaurant
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Forage Kitchen & Bar
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Las Iguanas - York
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The Botanist York
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Kennedy's Bar & Restaurant
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Côte York
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Turtle Bay York
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Forest
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Fat Hippo York
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La Vecchia Scuola
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D'vine Restaurant And Social Bar
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The Cut & Craft York
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Wildwood
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Paper Doll
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Käthe Wohlfahrt
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The Cat Gallery
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SOCTOPUS
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Shared Earth
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York Souvenirs and Gifts
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York Minster Shop
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Cello by Collectables
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Pandora
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The Yorkshire Soap Company - York
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The Imaginarium
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The Medieval Scribe
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Sterling Souvenirs
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Barghest
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Ye Olde Starre Inne
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The Punch Bowl
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Victor J's
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Vudu Lounge
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Dusk
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Pivní York
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Lendal Cellars
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Pitcher & Piano York
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Revolution York
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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Club Salvation
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Kuda
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Bar 55 York
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Karaoke Rooms (KTV)
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Big Fellas Nightclub
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Arabian Night Lounge
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Quadrophenia Night
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The Key Club
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PRYZM
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Educational
- Family Friendly
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Historic
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
