Bedern Hall: York’s Medieval Guild and Refectory Heritage
Step into Bedern Hall, a stunning 14th-century medieval guild hall and event venue in York, blending historic charm with modern elegance.
Bedern Hall, a Grade II* listed medieval building in York city centre, dates back to the 14th century. Originally the refectory for the Vicars Choral college, it features remarkable medieval stonework, timber framing, and a soaring beamed roof. Today, it serves as a historic event venue and guild hall, blending heritage charm with modern amenities for weddings, meetings, and cultural gatherings.
A brief summary to Bedern Hall
- Bartle Garth, St Andrewgate, York, YO1 7AL, GB
- +441904646030
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
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 weekdays to enjoy a quieter atmosphere and appreciate the medieval architecture without crowds.
- Check the event calendar on the official website to catch special guild meetings or cultural events.
- Explore nearby York Minster and other historic sites to deepen your understanding of York’s medieval heritage.
- Photography enthusiasts should capture the intricate timber framing and the unique fan-vaulted bay window.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Bus
Take York’s local bus services from the city centre, such as routes 4 or 6, which run frequently with a 10-15 minute journey to St Andrewgate nearby. Tickets cost around £2-£3. The stop is a short walk from Bedern Hall.
-
Taxi
A taxi from York railway station to Bedern Hall takes approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic, with fares typically between £6-£10. This is a convenient option if carrying event materials or arriving with a group.
-
Walking
From York city centre, a 15-20 minute walk along paved streets leads to Bedern Hall. The route is flat and accessible, suitable for most visitors including those with mobility aids.
Bedern Hall location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Bedern Hall
Origins and Medieval Significance
Bedern Hall was constructed in the mid-14th century as the refectory for the College of the Vicars Choral, a religious community that served York Minster. The name "Bedern" has Anglo-Saxon roots, meaning "house of prayer," and the site is first mentioned around 1270. The Hall was central to the college’s communal life, hosting meals and meetings for the vicars. Its medieval architectural features, including coursed limestone walls and a timber-framed section, reflect the craftsmanship of the period.Architectural Highlights and Restoration
The Hall’s interior boasts a soaring beamed roof space and a floor now laid with York stone, though originally it was covered with green glazed tiles, fragments of which were uncovered during archaeological excavations. One wall retains visible medieval timber framing, and a surviving medieval window with original tracery remains on the north-east front. Excavations also revealed a fan-vaulted bay window, an early example of such vaulting linked stylistically to York Minster’s eastern arm, possibly crafted by masons William Hoton or Robert de Patryngton. Restoration in the late 20th century replaced many roof timbers with modern oak and softwood to preserve the building while distinguishing new from old.Changing Roles Through History
After serving as a refectory until the mid-17th century, Bedern Hall’s function evolved dramatically. It became part private residence and housed St Peter’s School during the English Civil War. The surrounding area’s buildings were cleared in the 20th century, bringing Bedern Hall’s architectural gems back into view. The hall’s history also includes periods as Victorian slums, a bakery, and a butcher’s shop, reflecting York’s changing urban fabric.Modern Revival and Guild Associations
In 1980, a group of York’s surviving guilds formed the Bedern Hall Company to restore and repurpose the building as a guild hall and event venue. A modern annexe was added to support contemporary needs while preserving the historic core. Today, it is home to several guilds including the Company of Cordwainers, the Gild of Freemen, the York Guild of Building, the Company of Butchers, and the Guild of Scriveners. The hall hosts weddings, meetings, and cultural events, blending heritage with modern comfort.Atmosphere and Visitor Experience
Visitors to Bedern Hall experience a unique blend of medieval ambiance and modern functionality. The soaring roof beams and stone floors create an evocative setting that transports guests back to medieval York, while the updated facilities ensure comfort for contemporary events. The hall’s location in the heart of York’s historic centre makes it a fascinating stop for those interested in the city’s rich guild and ecclesiastical history.Preservation and Cultural Importance
Bedern Hall stands as a testament to York’s medieval past and the resilience of its historic buildings. Its Grade II* listing recognizes its architectural and historic significance. The careful restoration and ongoing use by historic guilds ensure the hall remains a vibrant part of York’s cultural heritage, bridging centuries of community, craftsmanship, and celebration.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
