Merchant Adventurers' Hall: York's Medieval Guildhall of Enterprise and Charity
Explore York’s largest medieval timber-framed guildhall, a historic hub of commerce, charity, and community since 1357.
The Merchant Adventurers' Hall in York is a remarkable medieval guildhall built between 1357 and 1368. It stands as the largest timber-framed building in the UK still used for its original purpose. The hall served as a meeting place for merchants, a charitable hospital, and a chapel, reflecting York's rich mercantile and social history. Today, it remains an active venue for events and houses a fascinating collection of historical artefacts.
A brief summary to Merchant Adventurers' Hall
- The Hall, Fossgate, York, YO1 9XD, GB
- +441904654818
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-1 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit the Merchants’ Coffee House inside the hall for a unique medieval setting to enjoy food and drink.
- Take time to explore the undercroft and chapel to appreciate the hall’s charitable and spiritual history.
- Check the hall’s schedule in advance as it occasionally closes for private events.
- Look out for the impressive timber roof structure and the intricate medieval carvings throughout the Great Hall.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the York Park & Ride service from the outskirts of York to the city centre, then walk approximately 10 minutes along Fossgate to the hall. The bus runs every 10-15 minutes, tickets cost around £3-£5.
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Train
Arrive at York Railway Station, then take a 20-minute walk or a short taxi ride (5 minutes) to the hall. Taxi fares typically range from £6-£10.
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Car
Drive to York city centre and use public car parks such as Marygate or Monk Bar, about a 10-15 minute walk to the hall. Parking fees vary between £2-£4 per hour.
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Walking
If staying nearby in York city centre, enjoy a 10-15 minute walk through historic streets to reach the hall. The terrain is flat and suitable for most visitors.
Merchant Adventurers' 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 Merchant Adventurers' Hall
Origins and Historical Significance
The Merchant Adventurers' Hall was constructed in the mid-14th century by a religious fraternity known as the Guild of Our Lord Jesus and the Blessed Virgin Mary. Built on the site of a former Norman mansion, the hall was completed over a decade from 1357 to 1368. It served as a communal meeting place, a chapel, and an undercroft hospital for the poor and sick of York. In 1430, the fraternity received a royal charter, becoming the Fellowship of Mercers and later, under Queen Elizabeth I in 1581, the Company of Merchant Adventurers of the City of York. This guild was instrumental in York's overseas trade and commercial prosperity.Architectural Grandeur and Timber Craftsmanship
The hall is celebrated for its vast timber-framed Great Hall, the largest of its kind in the UK still used for its original purpose. The oak timber, sourced from the Forest of Galtres, was meticulously cut and assembled off-site before being transported and erected in York. The roof features complex crown posts supported by a central row of large timber posts, held together by wooden pegs without nails. Over centuries, the building has seen additions such as the Governor’s Parlour and an Elizabethan two-storey annexe, while Georgian-era windows replaced the original small, high-set openings.Charitable and Religious Roles
The undercroft beneath the Great Hall functioned as an almshouse until the early 20th century, providing care for those unable to work. The attached chapel, dating from 1411, offered spiritual support to both merchants and hospital residents. The hall’s religious heritage is evident in its stained glass windows, painted boards displaying prayers, and historical furnishings, many of which were altered during the Reformation and later restorations. Worship continues here, maintaining the hall’s centuries-old spiritual tradition.Collections and Cultural Heritage
The Merchant Adventurers' Hall houses an extensive collection of artefacts that illuminate York’s mercantile past. These include silverware, furniture, paintings by notable artists such as Jan Griffier and William Etty, and medieval weights and measures used in trade. The hall’s archive, preserved in partnership with the University of York’s Borthwick Institute, contains documents dating back to the 13th century, offering a rich resource on the social, economic, and architectural history of York.Modern Use and Visitor Experience
Today, the hall remains the base for the Company of Merchant Adventurers, a charitable membership group continuing the guild’s legacy. It also functions as a vibrant events venue and tourist attraction. Visitors can explore the Great Hall, undercroft, and chapel, and enjoy refreshments in the Merchants’ Coffee House housed within the historic building. The hall’s blend of medieval architecture, historical artefacts, and ongoing community role offers a unique window into York’s enduring entrepreneurial spirit.Setting and Surroundings
Located on Fossgate in the heart of York, the hall sits on the banks of the River Foss, surrounded by the city’s historic streets. Nearby medieval guildhalls, such as the Merchant Taylors' Hall, complement the area’s rich heritage. The hall’s timber façade and ancient brickwork stand as a testament to York’s layered history, inviting visitors to step back into a world of medieval commerce, charity, and community life.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
St Crux
0.2 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.
Parliament St
0.2 km
York's vibrant shopping street where Victorian commerce meets medieval heritage and market tradition.
The Stonebow
0.2 km
A historic gateway blending medieval charm and architectural evolution at York’s vibrant city heart.
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.
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.
Ouse Bridge
0.3 km
Historic Ouse Bridge in York spans the River Ouse, blending medieval heritage with 19th-century architecture and city life.
Barley Hall
0.4 km
Discover the rich history of York at Barley Hall, a beautifully restored medieval townhouse showcasing life in the 15th century.
Skeldergate Bridge & Bishopgate St
0.4 km
Experience the beauty and history of York at Skeldergate Bridge, where vibrant city life meets serene river views.
Bedern Hall
0.4 km
Experience the enchanting Bedern Hall in York, a perfect venue that beautifully blends history and elegance for unforgettable weddings and events.
York Mansion House
0.5 km
Explore York Mansion House, a Georgian gem in the heart of York, showcasing the rich history and elegant lifestyle of the 18th century.
Fishergate Bar
0.5 km
Step through Fishergate Bar, a medieval gateway guarding York’s southern entrance, steeped in history and tales of rebellion.
Baile Hill
0.5 km
Experience the history and beauty of York at Baile Hill, where stunning views and rich heritage come together in a serene setting.
Roman Column
0.5 km
A 7.6-metre Roman column where Constantine may have been declared Emperor, standing in the shadow of York Minster since 1971.
Red Tower
0.5 km
Explore the historic Red Tower in York, a captivating landmark that showcases the city's rich medieval heritage and stunning architecture.
Sundial Column
0.5 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.
Unmissable attractions to see
Ghost keeper - Meeting point
0.1 km
Explore York’s haunted streets with the Ghost Keeper tour—a thrilling blend of history, spooky tales, and theatrical storytelling.
JORVIK Viking Centre
0.1 km
Step into Viking-age York at JORVIK Viking Centre, where history comes alive through immersive rides, artefacts, and interactive experiences.
St Mary's Church
0.1 km
Discover York’s ancient St Mary's Church—where medieval history meets contemporary art in a stunning Castlegate landmark.
Fairfax House
0.1 km
Step into the refined world of Georgian York at Fairfax House, a stunningly preserved townhouse showcasing exquisite 18th-century art, architecture, and history.
Coppergate Shopping Centre
0.1 km
Historic York’s vibrant open-air shopping centre blending culture, retail, and dining in the city’s ancient heart.
Parish of All Saints, Pavement
0.1 km
Discover York’s historic All Saints, Pavement—home to a medieval lantern tower beacon and centuries of rich heritage in the city’s heart.
Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience York
0.1 km
Step inside Van Gogh’s world with immersive projections and VR at historic St Mary's Abbey, York’s captivating digital art experience.
Brew York
0.2 km
York’s flagship craft brewery with a vibrant beer hall, riverside garden, and immersive brewery tours in the heart of the city.
Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma-Gate Sign
0.2 km
Discover York’s quirkiest tiny street marked by the Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma-Gate Sign, nestled near the medieval charm of the Shambles.
Wizard Walk of York - WINNER Best Tour and Best of York Award!
0.2 km
Experience the magic of York with the Wizard Walk, an award-winning tour that blends history, folklore, and captivating storytelling in a charming setting.
28 Shambles
0.2 km
Discover the historical allure and vibrant atmosphere of 28 Shambles, York's iconic medieval street filled with charming shops and local delicacies.
Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma Gate
0.2 km
Discover York’s tiniest street, Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma Gate, where mystery, medieval tales, and charming historic architecture converge in just a few meters.
The Shop That Must Not Be Named
0.2 km
Step into York’s enchanting Shambles and discover The Shop That Must Not Be Named, a magical Harry Potter emporium filled with wizarding wonders and immersive charm.
St Denys's Church, York
0.2 km
Explore the serene beauty and historical significance of St Denys's Church, a must-visit Anglican church in the heart of York, England.
The Royal Dragoon Guards Museum and Regimental Association
0.2 km
Three centuries of cavalry heritage preserved in York's historic heart, where personal stories meet military grandeur.
Essential places to dine
Ambiente Tapas Fossgate
0.1 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant atmosphere in York’s stylish Ambiente Tapas Fossgate, perfect for sharing, sipping, and socializing.
The Blue Barbakan
0.1 km
Experience hearty Polish classics and warm hospitality in York’s vibrant Fossgate at The Blue Barbakan.
Cosy Club
0.1 km
Historic charm meets stylish dining and cocktails in York’s iconic Cosy Club on Fossgate, perfect for all-day indulgence and special celebrations.
Pavement Vaults
0.1 km
Experience York’s vibrant grill and bar scene with generous smoked meats, craft beers, and a lively, welcoming atmosphere at Pavement Vaults.
Marzano Italian & Grill
0.1 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of York’s vibrant Fossgate district.
31 Castlegate Restaurant
0.1 km
Experience refined modern European dining in the historic heart of York, blending seasonal flavors with warm hospitality.
Rustique Restaurant
0.1 km
Experience authentic French flavors and vibrant bistro charm at Rustique, York’s beloved French restaurant with a welcoming atmosphere and great value.
Ate O'Clock
0.2 km
Enchanting modern British dining in York’s fairy-lit alley, blending classic flavors with stylish charm and warm hospitality.
Il Paradiso Del Cibo
0.2 km
A lively, cash-only Italian gem on Walmgate, serving authentic Sardinian-style pizzas, pastas, and hearty meat dishes in a bustling, family-run setting.
Corner Grill House
0.3 km
Award-winning Yorkshire steakhouse serving premium beef and local ingredients in York's vibrant city centre.
The Olive Tree
0.3 km
Authentic Mediterranean flavors and fresh seasonal dishes in the heart of historic York, near Clifford’s Tower.
Wine Stories
0.3 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine and an extensive wine selection in the cozy heart of York’s historic center at Wine Stories.
Valhalla York
0.3 km
Experience hearty Viking-inspired tapas, unique ales, and a lively atmosphere at Valhalla York in the heart of the city.
Tabanco By Ambiente
0.3 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and sherry in a warm, inviting atmosphere at Tabanco By Ambiente in York’s historic Walmgate.
The Cut & Craft York
0.3 km
Stylish steakhouse in York’s historic St. Sampson’s Square, famed for premium cuts, craft beers, and inviting modern ambiance.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Fenwick York
0.1 km
Discover luxury fashion, beauty, and homeware at Fenwick York, a boutique department store nestled in the heart of Coppergate Centre.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.1 km
Scandinavian creativity meets quirky British charm in this beloved gift and lifestyle shop.
Expressions
0.1 km
Discover unique vintage American sportswear and retro styles at Expressions, York’s friendly and authentic vintage clothing shop on historic Walmgate.
Give The Dog A Bone
0.1 km
Discover York’s quirky gift haven with two floors of unique treasures, from funky homeware to pop culture collectibles on historic Fossgate.
Dog & Bone Vintage
0.1 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and unique homewares in York’s charming Dog & Bone Vintage, where style meets sustainability across two floors.
Gift Gallery
0.2 km
Discover unique gifts and charming souvenirs in the heart of York’s historic Shambles, where tradition meets thoughtful shopping.
Mrs B's Emporium of Gifts
0.2 km
Discover quirky, unique gifts and playful treasures in the heart of York’s historic Shambles at Mrs B's Emporium of Gifts.
Pride of York Souvenirs
0.2 km
Discover authentic York treasures and unique souvenirs in the heart of the historic Shambles at Pride of York Souvenirs.
Take One Gifts
0.3 km
Explore Take One Gifts in York for unique souvenirs, artisan crafts, and memorable collectibles reflecting the city's charm.
York Souvenir's
0.3 km
Discover authentic York treasures and charming souvenirs at this friendly, independent gift shop in the heart of York.
Barghest
0.3 km
Discover Barghest, a quirky gift shop in York’s historic Shambles, offering unique film, TV, and music merchandise in a medieval setting.
Sterling Souvenirs
0.3 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
0.3 km
Discover unique medieval-inspired crafts and artisanal treasures in the heart of York’s historic Church Street.
Cello by Collectables
0.3 km
Explore Cello by Collectables, a charming gift shop in York offering unique handcrafted treasures that embody the city's rich culture.
Pandora
0.3 km
Discover elegant, hand-finished jewellery crafted with care and inspired by timeless style at Pandora on Low Petergate, York.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Fossgate Social
0.1 km
A lively independent bar and coffee shop on York’s Fossgate, known for craft drinks, specialty coffee, and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Hop York
0.1 km
A lively York city centre bar known for its craft beers, stone-baked pizzas, and vibrant live music in a historic Victorian setting.
The Blue Bell
0.1 km
York’s smallest and most beloved Edwardian pub, famed for its authentic atmosphere, quality ales, and warm community spirit.
Golden Fleece York
0.1 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 Three Tuns
0.1 km
Step into The Three Tuns, a centuries-old timber-framed pub on Coppergate offering historic charm and hearty Yorkshire hospitality in York’s heart.
Social 8 Lounge
0.2 km
Stylish York lounge bar offering crafted cocktails, small plates, and boozy brunch in a relaxed, elegant setting with a courtyard garden.
The Stone Roses Bar
0.2 km
York’s premier indie music bar, blending iconic memorabilia with lively vibes and friendly service in a central city location.
Plonkers
0.2 km
Family-run riverside wine bar and bistro in York serving home-cooked meals, fine wines, craft beers, and lively live music events since the 1980s.
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.
Slug & Lettuce York Riverside
0.3 km
Lively riverside bar and restaurant in York offering cocktails, casual dining, and vibrant social vibes with scenic river views.
Vudu Lounge
0.3 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.
Oscar's Wine Bar & Bistro
0.4 km
A lively and welcoming wine bar in York offering quality food, diverse wines, and a charming atmosphere for all occasions.
Tank & Paddle York
0.4 km
Craft beer paradise in York with riverside views, stone-baked pizzas, and 19 screens showing all major sports events.
Dyls
0.4 km
Historic bridge tower café-bar in York offering riverside views, locally sourced brunch, and vegan-friendly delights in a cozy, unique setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Kuda
0.2 km
York’s vibrant nightclub offering diverse music, live DJs, and a lively late-night atmosphere in the heart of the city.
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.
Popworld York
0.5 km
York’s vibrant pop music nightclub with a unique revolving dancefloor and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
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.
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)
0.8 km
Experience lively private karaoke rooms in the heart of York’s vibrant nightlife at Chuandao Karaoke Bar.
Big Fellas Nightclub
33.4 km
A lively and casual nightclub in Pontefract offering energetic late-night dancing and drinks in a central urban setting.
Arabian Night Lounge
34.1 km
Dive into Arabian enchantment on Leeds' nightlife scene: shisha, beats, and opulent vibes await at this Cherry Row gem.
Quadrophenia Night
34.7 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
34.9 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
34.9 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
35.1 km
Intimate, no-frills live-music club in central Leeds where punk, indie and alternative acts play close and loud beneath Merrion Street.
Wire
35.1 km
A compact, music-first basement club on Call Lane where tight crowds and a punchy sound system make late-night electronic parties feel immediate and intense.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
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
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- 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
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
