Barley Hall: A Restored Medieval Townhouse in York
Step into Barley Hall, York’s beautifully restored medieval townhouse, and experience the vibrant domestic life of 14th-century England.
Barley Hall is a meticulously restored 14th-century medieval townhouse located in the heart of York. Once hidden behind modern facades, it reveals the domestic life of medieval York through its Great Hall, exposed timber frames, and engaging exhibitions. Visitors enjoy hands-on activities, historical displays, and immersive storytelling that bring the 15th century vividly to life.
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 visiting time, especially during peak seasons.
- Explore the interactive exhibits and try the hands-on activities, great for families and children.
- Visit the 'Beasts at Barley Hall' exhibition to discover fascinating medieval animal stories and artefacts.
- Use the alternative wheelchair-accessible entrance to access the Great Hall and Steward’s Room.
- Allow around 1 to 1.5 hours to fully enjoy the hall, including the introductory video and exhibitions.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train
York Train Station is approximately a 15-20 minute walk from Barley Hall. Trains connect York with major UK cities, with frequent services. Walking from the station involves navigating urban streets; accessible routes are available but may include some cobblestones.
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Bus
City centre bus stops are located within a 5-10 minute walk of Barley Hall, served by multiple routes across York. Tickets cost around £2-£4 GBP. Buses run frequently during the day but check schedules for evenings and weekends.
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Walking
Barley Hall is best accessed on foot from York city centre. The walk involves cobbled streets and narrow alleys like Coffee Yard, which may be uneven and not fully accessible for all mobility needs. Allow 10-15 minutes from central landmarks.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in York city centre and can drop you close to Coffee Yard. The fare from the train station typically ranges from £5 to £10 GBP depending on traffic and time of day.
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 Journey into York's Medieval Past
Barley Hall stands as a remarkable example of medieval domestic architecture, originally built in the 1300s as the townhouse for the Priors of Nostell. Over the centuries, it evolved, notably becoming the residence of William Snawsell, a goldsmith, alderman, and Lord Mayor of York in the 1400s. Hidden behind modern buildings until its rediscovery in the 1980s, Barley Hall was painstakingly restored and reopened to the public in 1993, offering a rare glimpse into medieval urban life.Architectural Splendor and Interior Highlights
The hall features soaring ceilings, beautiful exposed timber framing, and a magnificent Great Hall that anchors the building's historical significance. Visitors can explore the pantry, living quarters, and the Steward’s Room, experiencing the authentic atmosphere of a medieval townhouse. The restoration reveals original structural elements such as the floor of the Great Hall and the exterior stairway to the Great Chamber, underscoring the building’s architectural heritage.Engaging Exhibitions and Family-Friendly Activities
Barley Hall hosts dynamic exhibitions like “Beasts at Barley Hall,” which explores the role of animals in medieval life through artefacts and stories, including porcupine quills, carved chess pieces, and dog collars. The museum offers interactive elements such as games, dress-up opportunities, and craft activities for children, making it an educational and entertaining destination for families. Accessible interpretation boards, audio stories, and sensory packs enhance the experience for visitors with diverse needs.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
The intimate scale of Barley Hall allows visitors to immerse themselves in history without feeling overwhelmed. Knowledgeable and passionate staff provide insights and answer questions, often enriching visits with informal guided commentary. The hall’s location in Coffee Yard, a quaint alley off Stonegate, adds to its charm as a hidden gem within York’s bustling city centre.Preservation and Accessibility Efforts
While the historic nature of the building means some areas have steps and raised thresholds, efforts have been made to improve accessibility, including a temporary ramp and an alternative entrance for wheelchair users allowing access to key rooms. Staff are trained in disability and autism awareness, and the site offers Braille translations, large print materials, and visual stories to accommodate various visitor needs.Connecting with York’s Rich Heritage
Barley Hall is part of York Archaeological Trust’s network of attractions, providing visitors with an in-depth understanding of the city’s medieval heritage. It complements other nearby historic sites and offers combined ticket options for those wishing to explore York’s past further. The hall’s preservation is a testament to the value placed on safeguarding cultural history and making it accessible and engaging for modern audiences.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Stonegate
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Roman Bath
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St Michael Le Belfrey
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The York Ghost Walk
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Constantine the Great
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Yorkshire Wheel
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Wildwood
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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The Cat Gallery
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Family Friendly
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
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
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Family Friendly
- Day Trip
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
