Treasurer's House, York – A Historic Gem Behind York Minster
Explore the lavish historic townhouse and award-winning gardens behind York Minster, filled with antiques, art, and stories from centuries past.
Treasurer's House in York is a remarkable National Trust property located on Minster Yard, just behind York Minster. This historic townhouse was transformed in the late 19th century by Frank Green, a wealthy industrialist’s grandson, into a lavish home showcasing his extensive collection of antiques, art, and furniture. Visitors can explore period rooms on guided tours, enjoy the award-winning gardens with stunning views of York Minster, and experience the house’s unique history and festive decorations during the Christmas season.
A brief summary to National Trust - Treasurer's House, York
- Minster Yard, York, YO1 7JL, GB
- +441904624247
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 11 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 11 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-4 pm
- Saturday 11 am-4 pm
- Sunday 11 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Book guided tours in advance during April to October to secure your preferred time slot as access is by tour only in this period.
- Visit during the Christmas season (mid-November to December) to see the house beautifully decorated with unique festive themes.
- Wear comfortable shoes as most rooms require stair access; limited accessibility is available on the ground floor and garden paths.
- Take time to relax in the award-winning gardens with peaceful views of York Minster’s Chapter House.
- Check out the nearby National Trust shop and café for local crafts and seasonal refreshments to complete your visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus
Take York’s local bus services to the city centre, with stops near York Minster. From the bus stop, it is a 5-10 minute walk to Treasurer’s House. Bus fares typically range from £2 to £5 depending on the route and ticket type.
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Train
York Railway Station is approximately 1.5 km from Treasurer’s House. From the station, a taxi ride takes about 5 minutes and costs around £6-£10. Alternatively, a 20-minute walk through the city centre is possible on flat terrain.
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Car
Visitors arriving by car can use nearby city centre car parks such as the Marygate or St George’s Field car parks, located about 10-15 minutes’ walk from Treasurer’s House. Parking fees range from £1.50 to £3.50 per hour, with daily maximums around £15. Note that the house itself does not have dedicated parking.
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Walking and Cycling
York is a flat city with extensive cycle routes. Cycling to Treasurer’s House is convenient, with public cycle parking available about 100 meters away on College Street. Walking from most central locations takes 5-15 minutes on accessible, paved paths.
National Trust - Treasurer's House, York location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about National Trust - Treasurer's House, York
A House Steeped in History and Transformation
Treasurer's House stands on Minster Yard, directly behind the iconic York Minster. Its origins date back over 2,000 years, with the house serving as the residence for the treasurers of York Minster from around 1100 until the dissolution of the office under Henry VIII. In 1897, Frank Green, the grandson of a wealthy industrialist, purchased the property and undertook a dramatic transformation. He demolished parts of the original structure and combined three houses into one grand townhouse, designed to showcase his impressive collection of antiques, ceramics, textiles, and paintings collected over 300 years. His vision was to create a lavish home with interiors grand enough to entertain royalty, including a visit from the future King Edward VII.The Unique Collection and Lavish Interiors
Inside, the house is filled with exquisite period furnishings and decorative arts, arranged with meticulous care by Frank Green himself. He was known for his exacting standards, even marking spots on the floor to indicate where furniture should be placed, with a playful legend that the house would be haunted if items were moved. The guided tours, offered April through October, reveal stories about Green’s life, his collection, and the house’s evolution. During the winter months, the house is open without tours and beautifully decorated for Christmas with a changing festive theme, adding a magical atmosphere to the historic rooms.Serene Gardens with Award-Winning Views
Adjacent to the house are two distinct gardens: the front garden, designed by Frank Green in 1900, features architectural fragments from York Minster’s many rebuildings and offers benches for quiet contemplation. The Organic Herb Garden at the rear delights visitors with its sensory array of sights and smells. The gardens provide peaceful retreats with some of the best views of York Minster’s Chapter House. The front garden has won the gold award for Yorkshire in Bloom multiple years running, underscoring its beauty and careful maintenance.Visitor Experience and Accessibility
Treasurer's House operates guided tours that last about an hour, with tours running every 15 minutes during the main season. The house has limited accessibility due to stairs in most rooms, but the ground floor and garden paths offer some level access. Facilities include a café serving seasonal treats and a nearby shop offering gifts and local crafts. The house welcomes families and children, and dogs on leads are allowed in the grounds. The property is a tranquil oasis in the heart of York, offering a blend of history, art, and natural beauty.Ghost Stories and Cultural Significance
Adding to its allure, Treasurer's House is reputedly haunted, with tales of Roman soldiers appearing in the cellar, linking the site to York’s ancient past. This blend of history, mystery, and art makes the house a unique cultural heritage site. Frank Green’s decision to gift the house and its collection to the National Trust was pioneering, ensuring the preservation of this historic treasure for future generations.Seasonal Highlights and Events
During the festive season from mid-November to December, the house is decorated with unique Christmas themes, attracting visitors who wish to experience its historic charm in a seasonal setting. The gardens also host community events and are a popular venue for private functions when not open to the public. Whether visiting for history, art, or the serene gardens, Treasurer’s House offers a rich and varied experience in the heart of York.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.
The Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of St Peter in York
0.1 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.
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.
Medieval Walls
0.2 km
Walk England’s longest medieval walls, tracing 2,000 years of York’s history with stunning city views and iconic fortified gateways.
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.
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.
York Gifts and Souvenirs
0.2 km
Explore York Gifts and Souvenirs for locally crafted treasures and unique gifts that capture the essence of York's rich history and culture.
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.
Ghost Hunt of York
0.4 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
0.4 km
Explore a unique blend of York's ghostly history and charming souvenirs at The York Ghost Merchants, your destination for eerie collectibles.
Anglian Tower
0.4 km
Discover York’s rare Anglo-Saxon watchtower, a unique stone relic woven into ancient Roman walls and shrouded in centuries of history.
Shambles Market
0.4 km
Discover York’s vibrant Shambles Market, where historic charm meets artisan crafts and global street food in a lively covered marketplace.
Shrine of Saint Margaret Clitherow
0.4 km
Explore the Shrine of Saint Margaret Clitherow in York, a serene sanctuary steeped in history and spiritual significance, perfect for reflection and discovery.
Visit York Information Centre & Gift Shop
0.4 km
Discover York's rich history and vibrant culture at the Visit York Information Centre & Gift Shop, your gateway to unforgettable experiences.
St. Leonard's Hospital
0.4 km
Explore the evocative ruins of York’s largest medieval hospital, where healing met faith in a grand historic sanctuary.
Unmissable attractions to see
Minster Yard
0.0 km
Historic Minster Yard in York surrounds the majestic York Minster, blending medieval heritage, stunning Gothic architecture, and vibrant cultural life.
Chapter House
0.1 km
Medieval masterpiece where timber vaults defy gravity and Parliament once convened in octagonal splendor.
The Bloody Tour of York
0.1 km
York's darkest stories come alive through theatrical storytelling and genuine historical insight.
City Wall Walk
0.1 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.
York Minster
0.1 km
Explore the awe-inspiring York Minster, Northern Europe's largest Gothic cathedral, a treasure trove of art, history, and spirituality.
Dean's Park
0.1 km
A peaceful green oasis beside York Minster, blending historic charm with tranquil gardens and stunning cathedral views.
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.
Constantine the Great
0.1 km
Bronze statue of Roman Emperor Constantine the Great at York Minster, marking his historic proclamation as emperor in AD 306.
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.
Snickleway Inn
0.2 km
Step into York’s 15th-century Snickleway Inn, a historic pub famed for its cosy charm and ghostly legends.
St Michael Le Belfrey
0.2 km
York’s largest Tudor parish church, rich in history, vibrant worship, and the baptism site of Guy Fawkes.
Robin Hood Tower
0.2 km
Explore the enchanting Robin Hood Tower in York, a historical landmark steeped in folklore and rich architectural beauty.
Bedern Hall
0.2 km
Step into Bedern Hall, a stunning medieval guild hall in York where history, architecture, and community converge in timeless elegance.
Shadows of York Ghost Walk
0.2 km
Explore York’s eerie streets on a captivating ghost walk blending history, hauntings, and theatrical storytelling for all ages.
The Ghost Trail Of York
0.2 km
Explore York’s haunted snickelways on a thrilling, family-friendly ghost walk beneath the gothic grandeur of York Minster.
Essential places to dine
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.
Fancy Hank's Bar & Kitchen
0.2 km
Experience hearty Southern American flavors and vibrant cocktails in the heart of York’s historic Minster Quarter.
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.
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.
Côte York
0.2 km
Experience authentic Parisian brasserie dining with classic French dishes and warm hospitality in the heart of historic York.
Guy Fawkes Inn
0.2 km
Historic inn with cozy period rooms, lively pub, and unbeatable central location near York Minster.
La Vecchia Scuola
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and contemporary dining in the heart of historic York at La Vecchia Scuola.
Bab Tooma York
0.2 km
Experience authentic Syrian cuisine in a warm, traditional setting with generous portions and BYOB in the heart of York.
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.
Lucia Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience vibrant Italian dining and cocktails in York’s heart, with a heated courtyard and stylish lounge for all-day enjoyment.
Wildwood
0.3 km
Cozy Italian dining with stone-baked pizzas, fresh pasta, and vegan-friendly options in the heart of historic York’s Low Petergate.
Los Moros
0.3 km
Experience authentic North African cuisine with vibrant flavors and a rustic charm in the heart of historic York.
The Botanist York
0.3 km
A vibrant botanical bar and restaurant on York’s historic Stonegate, blending fresh seasonal cuisine with live music and lush, nature-inspired interiors.
D'vine Restaurant And Social Bar
0.3 km
A vibrant York venue blending British, Italian, and Mediterranean flavors with a lively social bar atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
National Trust Gift Shop
0.1 km
Discover unique National Trust gifts and local crafts in a historic York setting supporting conservation and heritage.
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.
Cleggs
0.1 km
Discover unique gifts, handcrafted homewares, and stylish accessories in the heart of York’s historic Goodramgate at Cleggs.
Village Shop
0.2 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.
York Minster Shop
0.2 km
Discover authentic souvenirs and specialist books celebrating York Minster's medieval heritage.
The Knutti Store, a Viking Trading Post
0.2 km
Step into York’s Viking past at The Knutti Store, where authentic craftsmanship meets legendary tales in a charming trading post setting.
SOCTOPUS
0.2 km
Discover York’s playful sock boutique blending British humour, culture, and quirky style in every colourful pair.
Shared Earth
0.2 km
Discover ethically sourced treasures and handcrafted fair trade gifts in the heart of historic York.
The Cat Gallery
0.2 km
York's iconic independent gift shop celebrating all things feline since 2001.
Rookscroft
0.2 km
Discover handcrafted treasures and local charm at Rookscroft, York’s cozy gift shop on historic Stonegate.
Snowhome
0.2 km
Discover Snowhome, York’s premier independent lifestyle store blending exquisite stationery, niche perfumes, and sustainable home accessories since 2001.
York Souvenirs and Gifts
0.3 km
Authentic Yorkshire souvenirs and handcrafted gifts in the heart of historic York’s medieval streets.
Fairer World
0.3 km
Discover unique fair trade treasures and support global artisans at York’s dedicated ethical gift shop on historic Gillygate.
Pandora
0.3 km
Discover elegant, hand-finished jewellery crafted with care and inspired by timeless style at Pandora on Low Petergate, York.
Käthe Wohlfahrt
0.3 km
Experience authentic German Christmas magic year-round in York’s historic Tudor townhouse on Stonegate.
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.
Eagle & Child
0.3 km
Historic 17th-century timber-framed pub in York offering craft ales, good food, and a charming beer garden in a quaint, lively setting.
Evil Eye
0.3 km
Quirky cocktails and lively entertainment blend seamlessly in York’s vibrant Evil Eye Lounge on historic Stonegate.
Ye Olde Starre Inne
0.3 km
Historic and welcoming pub on York’s Stonegate, serving hearty British classics in a charming medieval setting.
Oscar's Wine Bar & Bistro
0.3 km
A lively and welcoming wine bar in York offering quality food, diverse wines, and a charming atmosphere for all occasions.
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.
Vudu Lounge
0.3 km
York’s eclectic after-hours lounge blending quality cocktails with a lively, quirky nightlife vibe until the early morning.
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.
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.
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.
Pivní York
0.4 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.
Dusk
0.4 km
A quirky and welcoming bar in York’s city centre, perfect for lively nights and casual drinks in a vibrant atmosphere.
House Of Trembling Madness // Lendal (No table bookings)
0.4 km
Step into York’s medieval gem where historic ambiance meets an extraordinary craft beer selection in a quirky, lively setting.
Lendal Cellars
0.4 km
Historic underground pub with a quirky atmosphere, diverse menu, and a rare city-center beer garden in York.
The Black Swan
0.5 km
Medieval timber-framed pub with 17th-century interiors and live cultural performances in historic York.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
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.
Flares - York
0.6 km
Experience York’s ultimate retro nightclub with decades-spanning hits, vibrant dance floors, and an inclusive party atmosphere.
Club Salvation
0.7 km
York’s vibrant nightclub with dual music rooms, lively atmosphere, and fair-priced drinks for an unforgettable night out.
Kuda
0.7 km
York’s vibrant nightclub offering diverse music, live DJs, and a lively late-night atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Popworld York
0.7 km
York’s vibrant pop music nightclub with a unique revolving dancefloor and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Ziggy's Bar & Nightclub
0.8 km
York’s iconic student nightclub offering energetic dance floors, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere since the 1980s.
Bar 55 York
0.8 km
York’s exclusive strip club offering sophisticated adult entertainment and premium nightlife in a stylish, historic setting.
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
33.9 km
A lively and casual nightclub in Pontefract offering energetic late-night dancing and drinks in a central urban setting.
Arabian Night Lounge
34.3 km
Dive into Arabian enchantment on Leeds' nightlife scene: shisha, beats, and opulent vibes await at this Cherry Row gem.
Quadrophenia Night
34.9 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
35.1 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
35.1 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
35.3 km
Intimate, no-frills live-music club in central Leeds where punk, indie and alternative acts play close and loud beneath Merrion Street.
PRYZM
35.3 km
Leeds' multi-themed superclub where futuristic beats meet quirky rooms in the heart of Arena Quarter nightlife.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
- Historic
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
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Myth & Legends
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
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
