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Merchant Taylors' Hall, York

A magnificent 15th-century guild hall in the heart of York, perfect for weddings, events, and celebrations steeped in history and charm.

4.7

Step into over 600 years of history at Merchant Taylors' Hall, one of the finest surviving medieval guild halls in the world. Nestled within York’s ancient city walls, this Grade I listed building offers grand timbered halls, a romantic garden, and a magical atmosphere for weddings, events, and gatherings. With flexible event spaces, a roaring fire in winter, and a central location just minutes from York’s main attractions, it’s a unique blend of heritage, elegance, and timeless charm.

A brief summary to Merchant Taylors' Hall

  • Merchant Taylors' Hall, Aldwark, York, YO1 7BX, GB
  • +441904624889
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 4 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Mixed
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 9 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Book a venue tour early, especially for weddings, as dates fill up quickly in this popular historic hall.
  • Consider the garden for your ceremony or drinks reception; it’s a beautiful, photogenic space that adds a romantic touch.
  • Discuss catering options and dietary requirements in advance to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for all guests.
  • Take advantage of the exclusive use of the venue to personalise the layout and décor for a truly unique event.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From York city centre, it’s about a 10–15 minute walk to Merchant Taylors’ Hall along Aldwark. The route is flat and well paved, suitable for most visitors, and passes near several historic buildings and shops.

  • Public Transport

    York railway station is roughly a 15-minute walk or a short taxi ride away. Buses serving the city centre stop within a few minutes’ walk, and from there it’s a short, level walk to the hall.

  • Car

    The hall has free on-site parking for the bridal party and event hosts. Additional public parking is available within a few minutes’ walk, including several city centre car parks.

Merchant Taylors' Hall location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about Merchant Taylors' Hall

A Living Piece of Medieval York

Built in 1415, the same year as the Battle of Agincourt, Merchant Taylors' Hall stands as one of the world’s finest surviving medieval guild halls. For more than six centuries, this Grade I listed building has served as a place of gathering, feasting, and celebration for York’s merchant community. Its thick stone walls, soaring timbered ceilings, and historic fireplaces speak of a time when trade guilds shaped the life of the city. Walking through its doors feels like stepping into a living chapter of York’s rich past, where every beam and flagstone holds stories of banquets, meetings, and civic life.

Grand Halls and Intimate Spaces

The heart of the venue is the Great Hall, a magnificent space that can seat up to 120 guests for a wedding breakfast or reception. Its medieval character is enhanced by a roaring fire in cooler months, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. Alongside the Great Hall, the Master’s Room and the Romantic Taylors Pavilion offer additional flexible spaces for ceremonies, drinks receptions, or intimate gatherings. These rooms can be arranged to suit different layouts and styles, allowing couples and event hosts to personalise the space with their own decorations, flowers, and themes.

A Garden for Celebrations

Outside, a lovely walled garden provides a peaceful retreat and a beautiful backdrop for photographs, drinks receptions, or quiet moments during an event. The garden adds a touch of greenery and romance to the historic setting, making it especially popular for wedding ceremonies and outdoor mingling. Whether bathed in summer sunlight or lit with fairy lights in the evening, the garden enhances the magical atmosphere of the hall and grounds.

Weddings and Events in the City Centre

Licensed for civil wedding ceremonies and civil partnerships, Merchant Taylors’ Hall is a sought-after venue for couples seeking a historic yet flexible setting. The venue offers exclusive use of its spaces, allowing hosts to shape the day entirely around their vision. Award-winning caterers create bespoke menus, from buffets to fine dining, with options to accommodate a range of dietary needs. A fully licensed bar serves real ales, wines, and spirits, ensuring guests are well looked after throughout the celebration.

Practicality Meets Heritage

Despite its ancient character, the hall is well equipped for modern events. It is located in the city centre, within easy reach of York’s main attractions, hotels, and transport links. Free on-site parking is available for the bridal party, with additional parking nearby. As a registered charity, income from events is reinvested into the upkeep of this historic building and into grants for young people pursuing skills in art, craftsmanship, and music, adding a meaningful layer to every celebration held here.

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