York Mansion House: Elegant Georgian Heritage in the Heart of York
Step into York’s elegant Georgian Mansion House, a historic Lord Mayor’s residence rich with interactive exhibits and timeless charm.
York Mansion House, situated at St. Helen’s Square, is the historic residence of York’s Lord Mayor, showcasing exquisite Georgian architecture, beautifully restored rooms, and engaging interactive exhibits. Highlights include the authentic Georgian kitchen with cooking demonstrations and elegant reception rooms that reflect 18th-century civic life. The Mansion House offers a rich cultural experience with knowledgeable staff and modern interactive guides, making it a unique window into York’s past.
A brief summary to York Mansion House
- St. Helen’s Square, York, YO1 9QL, GB
- +441904553663
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Wednesday 10:30 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10:30 am-5 pm
- Friday 10:30 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10:30 am-5 pm
- Sunday 11 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Bring proof of York residency to enjoy a half-price entry discount.
- Use the free interactive handheld guide for a richer understanding of the rooms and history.
- Check the schedule for cooking demonstrations in the Georgian kitchen to catch a live historical experience.
- Visit on weekdays or early weekends to avoid larger crowds and enjoy a more tranquil atmosphere.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Several local bus routes connect York city centre with St. Helen’s Square, where the Mansion House is located. Buses run frequently throughout the day, with travel times from York railway station to the square typically around 10–15 minutes. Tickets cost approximately £2–£4. Note that bus frequency may reduce on Sundays and public holidays.
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Walking
From York railway station, a pleasant 20-minute walk through the historic city centre leads to St. Helen’s Square. The route is mostly flat and accessible, passing landmarks such as the city walls and Clifford’s Tower, suitable for most visitors including those with limited mobility.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available from York railway station and throughout the city. A taxi ride to the Mansion House typically takes 5–10 minutes depending on traffic and costs around £6–£10. This option is convenient for those with luggage or mobility needs.
York Mansion House 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 Mansion House
A Georgian Gem in York’s Civic Heart
York Mansion House stands proudly in St. Helen’s Square as a symbol of the city’s rich civic heritage. Built in the 18th century, it was designed as the official residence of the Lord Mayor of York, a role steeped in local tradition and governance. The building’s elegant Georgian architecture is a testament to the period’s refined tastes, featuring grand reception rooms, intricate plasterwork, and period furnishings that evoke the lifestyle of York’s elite during that era.Immersive Historical Experience
Visitors to the Mansion House are invited to step back in time and explore its meticulously restored interiors. The highlight is the Georgian kitchen, where historical cooking demonstrations bring 18th-century domestic life vividly to life. Using authentic recipes and period techniques, these demonstrations offer a sensory glimpse into the past, enriching the visitor experience beyond static displays. Throughout the house, interactive handheld guides and touchscreens provide engaging narratives and detailed insights into the building’s history and the people who lived and worked there.Architectural and Decorative Highlights
The Mansion House’s interior is a showcase of Georgian elegance, with beautifully preserved rooms such as the ballroom, dining areas, and the Lord Mayor’s chambers. Each space is thoughtfully arranged to reflect its original function and decorative style, featuring period furniture, artwork, and civic regalia including the Lord Mayor’s chains of office. The careful restoration work highlights the craftsmanship of the era, from ornate cornices to polished woodwork, making the building itself a work of art.A Welcoming Cultural Venue
Beyond its historical significance, York Mansion House serves as a vibrant cultural venue. The staff are known for their friendliness and expertise, often sharing fascinating anecdotes and answering visitors’ questions. The venue also hosts special events such as themed evenings and seasonal celebrations, adding to its dynamic character. For York residents, entry discounts encourage local engagement with their heritage, fostering a strong community connection.Accessibility and Visitor Amenities
The Mansion House is committed to accessibility, with lifts and facilities to accommodate visitors with mobility challenges. The site includes informative signage and offers a calm sanctuary from the bustling city centre, making it suitable for families, history enthusiasts, and casual visitors alike. Nearby amenities include restrooms and seating areas, enhancing comfort during your visit.Legacy and Significance
As one of the few remaining official mayoral residences in the UK, York Mansion House holds a unique place in the nation’s cultural landscape. It embodies centuries of civic pride and tradition, offering a tangible link to York’s governance and social history. Its ongoing preservation and public engagement ensure that this architectural jewel continues to educate and inspire future generations.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
St. Leonard's Hospital
0.2 km
Explore the evocative ruins of York’s largest medieval hospital, where healing met faith in a grand historic sanctuary.
The Norman House
0.2 km
Discover York’s oldest medieval house, a Norman stone residence with rare surviving walls and a Norman window hidden behind Stonegate.
Anglian Tower
0.2 km
Discover York’s rare Anglo-Saxon watchtower, a unique stone relic woven into ancient Roman walls and shrouded in centuries of history.
Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours (formally BOBH)
0.2 km
Discover the enchanting landscapes and rich heritage of Yorkshire with personalized tours from Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours.
Parliament St
0.3 km
York's vibrant shopping street where Victorian commerce meets medieval heritage and market tradition.
Roman Column
0.3 km
A 7.6-metre Roman column where Constantine may have been declared Emperor, standing in the shadow of York Minster since 1971.
York Gifts and Souvenirs
0.3 km
Explore York Gifts and Souvenirs for locally crafted treasures and unique gifts that capture the essence of York's rich history and culture.
Ouse Bridge
0.3 km
Historic Ouse Bridge in York spans the River Ouse, blending medieval heritage with 19th-century architecture and city life.
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.
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.
Bootham Bar
0.3 km
Explore Bootham Bar, York’s medieval gateway with Roman roots, historic portcullis, and stunning views of the city’s ancient walls and Minster.
The Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of St Peter in York
0.3 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.
Shrine of Saint Margaret Clitherow
0.3 km
Explore the Shrine of Saint Margaret Clitherow in York, a serene sanctuary steeped in history and spiritual significance, perfect for reflection and discovery.
11 Shambles
0.3 km
Explore the enchanting 11 Shambles in York, a medieval street with charming shops, historic architecture, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Dame Judi Dench Walk
0.3 km
Discover the beauty of Dame Judi Dench Walk in York, a tranquil path celebrating the iconic actress amidst stunning scenery and rich history.
Unmissable attractions to see
The York Ghost Walk
0.1 km
Discover York’s haunted history through an atmospheric evening walk filled with ghostly tales and historic intrigue around Davygate.
City Screen Picturehouse
0.1 km
A lively independent cinema and cultural venue in York blending film, live entertainment, and a welcoming cafe-bar atmosphere.
Coney St
0.1 km
York’s historic Coney Street blends centuries of heritage with vibrant shopping, dining, and riverside charm in the city centre.
Locked in Games York
0.1 km
Solve puzzles, beat the clock and escape in York’s clever escape room centre near the museum gardens.
Stonegate
0.1 km
Discover Stonegate, York’s historic street where Roman roots meet medieval charm and vibrant cultural heritage in the city’s heart.
Black window cat
0.1 km
Explore Black Window Cat in York, a vibrant tourist attraction blending art, culture, and community in a historic setting.
The York Cat Trail
0.1 km
Discover York’s historic streets through a whimsical trail of cat statues blending folklore, art, and city heritage.
Mannion & Co
0.1 km
A cosy York bistro famed for artisan brunch, deli boards, and a hidden courtyard in the city’s historic heart.
Huntfun York
0.1 km
Explore York’s historic heart through a captivating, family-friendly treasure hunt filled with cryptic clues and hidden gems.
Peregrine Falcon Mural
0.2 km
Discover the awe-inspiring Peregrine Falcon Mural in York, a vibrant piece of street art that captures the city's rich culture and artistic spirit.
York Armoury
0.2 km
Discover authentic historical arms, armour, and movie swords in York’s premier specialist gift shop on atmospheric Stonegate.
Yorkshire Wheel
0.2 km
Experience York’s historic skyline from a unique panoramic Ferris wheel in the heart of the city’s vibrant St Sampson’s Square.
Coffee yard
0.2 km
Discover the quiet charm and medieval heritage of Coffee Yard, a historic snickelway nestled in the heart of York’s old city.
Barley Hall
0.2 km
Step into Barley Hall, York’s beautifully restored medieval townhouse, and experience the vibrant domestic life of 14th-century England.
The Red House Antique Centre
0.2 km
Discover a treasure trove of antiques and collectibles in York’s historic Red House, where over 60 dealers offer unique finds for every budget.
Essential places to dine
The Ivy St Helen's Square York
0.0 km
Elegant British brasserie in York’s historic heart, offering modern classics, vibrant interiors, and a lively yet refined atmosphere.
Tomahawk Steakhouse York
0.0 km
Savor Himalayan salt dry-aged steaks and vibrant cocktails in the heart of York’s historic city centre at Tomahawk Steakhouse.
Bill's York Restaurant
0.1 km
Colourful British comfort food in a historic York building, perfect for brunch, burgers and cocktails in the city centre.
Kennedy's Bar & Restaurant
0.1 km
A vibrant York hotspot blending modern British cuisine, live music, and expertly crafted cocktails in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Turtle Bay York
0.1 km
Experience authentic Caribbean flavors and vibrant island vibes in the heart of historic York at Turtle Bay.
Forage Kitchen & Bar
0.1 km
Refined fire-cooked dishes and inventive Yorkshire cocktails in a lush, intimate setting on York’s historic Little Stonegate.
The Botanist York
0.1 km
A vibrant botanical bar and restaurant on York’s historic Stonegate, blending fresh seasonal cuisine with live music and lush, nature-inspired interiors.
Brew & Brownie
0.1 km
Cozy family-run café in York serving locally inspired breakfasts, artisan coffee, and indulgent brownies in a rustic, welcoming setting.
Las Iguanas - York
0.2 km
Experience vibrant Latin American flavours and lively cocktails in York’s historic city centre at Las Iguanas.
The Star Inn The City
0.2 km
Elegant riverside dining in York offering seasonal British cuisine with a rustic countryside charm and stunning views of the River Ouse.
The Cut & Craft York
0.2 km
Stylish steakhouse in York’s historic St. Sampson’s Square, famed for premium cuts, craft beers, and inviting modern ambiance.
House Of The Trembling Madness // Stonegate (No table bookings)
0.2 km
A medieval ale house with a vast craft beer collection, quirky charm, and hearty Yorkshire fare in the heart of historic York.
Los Moros
0.2 km
Experience authentic North African cuisine with vibrant flavors and a rustic charm in the heart of historic York.
The Whippet Inn
0.2 km
York’s hidden steakhouse gem offering ethically sourced beef, cozy ambiance, and exceptional Sunday roasts in a stylish adults-only setting.
Wine Stories
0.2 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine and an extensive wine selection in the cozy heart of York’s historic center at Wine Stories.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Yorkshire Soap Company - York
0.1 km
A fragrant, playful haven of handmade soaps and scented treats in the heart of York – perfect for gifts and a little indulgence.
The Imaginarium
0.1 km
Discover York’s enchanting Victorian-style curiosity shop filled with unique art, vintage-inspired homewares, and affordable luxuries.
Käthe Wohlfahrt
0.1 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.
Rookscroft
0.2 km
Discover handcrafted treasures and local charm at Rookscroft, York’s cozy gift shop on historic Stonegate.
Cello by Collectables
0.2 km
Explore Cello by Collectables, a charming gift shop in York offering unique handcrafted treasures that embody the city's rich culture.
The Cat Gallery
0.2 km
York's iconic independent gift shop celebrating all things feline since 2001.
Shared Earth
0.2 km
Discover ethically sourced treasures and handcrafted fair trade gifts in the heart of historic York.
SOCTOPUS
0.2 km
Discover York’s playful sock boutique blending British humour, culture, and quirky style in every colourful pair.
York Souvenirs and Gifts
0.3 km
Authentic Yorkshire souvenirs and handcrafted gifts in the heart of historic York’s medieval streets.
Hidden Treasures
0.3 km
Discover unique crystals and spiritual tools in a tranquil metaphysical shop at York’s George Hudson Street.
The Medieval Scribe
0.3 km
Discover unique medieval-inspired crafts and artisanal treasures in the heart of York’s historic Church Street.
York Minster Shop
0.3 km
Discover authentic souvenirs and specialist books celebrating York Minster's medieval heritage.
Pandora
0.3 km
Discover elegant, hand-finished jewellery crafted with care and inspired by timeless style at Pandora on Low Petergate, York.
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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lendal Cellars
0.0 km
Historic underground pub with a quirky atmosphere, diverse menu, and a rare city-center beer garden in York.
House Of Trembling Madness // Lendal (No table bookings)
0.1 km
Step into York’s medieval gem where historic ambiance meets an extraordinary craft beer selection in a quirky, lively setting.
Revolution York
0.1 km
Lively riverside bar and restaurant in York’s historic centre with multiple bars, garden terrace, and a vibrant atmosphere for all occasions.
Dusk
0.1 km
A quirky and welcoming bar in York’s city centre, perfect for lively nights and casual drinks in a vibrant atmosphere.
The Punch Bowl
0.1 km
A historic York pub blending traditional charm, eclectic ales, and hearty British fare in a cozy, welcoming setting on Stonegate.
Pitcher & Piano York
0.1 km
Lively riverside bar on Coney Street blending modern British cuisine, vibrant social events, and scenic views of the River Ouse in York.
Bobos Cocktail Bar York
0.1 km
York’s vibrant two-floor cocktail bar with tropical drinks, heated shisha terrace, lively DJs, and unbeatable drink deals in the historic Quarter.
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.
Ye Olde Starre Inne
0.2 km
Historic and welcoming pub on York’s Stonegate, serving hearty British classics in a charming medieval setting.
Evil Eye
0.2 km
Quirky cocktails and lively entertainment blend seamlessly in York’s vibrant Evil Eye Lounge on historic Stonegate.
Victor J's
0.2 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
0.2 km
A lively and welcoming wine bar in York offering quality food, diverse wines, and a charming atmosphere for all occasions.
The Maltings
0.2 km
A quirky, friendly pub in York offering a wide beer selection and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Tanner's Moat.
Vudu Lounge
0.2 km
York’s eclectic after-hours lounge blending quality cocktails with a lively, quirky nightlife vibe until the early morning.
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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
BlueBox
0.1 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
0.2 km
Experience York’s ultimate retro nightclub with decades-spanning hits, vibrant dance floors, and an inclusive party atmosphere.
Club Salvation
0.3 km
York’s vibrant nightclub with dual music rooms, lively atmosphere, and fair-priced drinks for an unforgettable night out.
Popworld York
0.3 km
York’s vibrant pop music nightclub with a unique revolving dancefloor and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Ziggy's Bar & Nightclub
0.4 km
York’s iconic student nightclub offering energetic dance floors, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere since the 1980s.
Bar 55 York
0.4 km
York’s exclusive strip club offering sophisticated adult entertainment and premium nightlife in a stylish, historic setting.
Kuda
0.4 km
York’s vibrant nightclub offering diverse music, live DJs, and a lively late-night atmosphere in the heart of the city.
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
33.4 km
A lively and casual nightclub in Pontefract offering energetic late-night dancing and drinks in a central urban setting.
Arabian Night Lounge
33.9 km
Dive into Arabian enchantment on Leeds' nightlife scene: shisha, beats, and opulent vibes await at this Cherry Row gem.
Quadrophenia Night
34.5 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
34.7 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
34.7 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
34.9 km
Intimate, no-frills live-music club in central Leeds where punk, indie and alternative acts play close and loud beneath Merrion Street.
PRYZM
34.9 km
Leeds' multi-themed superclub where futuristic beats meet quirky rooms in the heart of Arena Quarter nightlife.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
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
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
