York Minster

The awe-inspiring York Minster sits at the very heart of the historic city of York.  It is the largest Gothic Cathedral north of the Alps and is a treasure house of artistic and architectural achievements.  It is a beacon for all visitors to the city and is an integral part of the history of the city of York.  The Minster is world-famous for its wonderful collection of stained glass with the glorious Great East Window standing as the jewel in its crown.  

The current Minster was started in 1220 and finished in 1472.  This cathedral replaced a previous Norman Cathedral which itself was situated on the site of a Roman Fortress.  Visitors can delve into the history of the Minster in the Undercroft, Treasury and Crypt.  Here, visitors will experience the many stages in the Minster’s history and can also see part of the Dean and Chapter’s wonderful collection of Silver.  The Undercroft includes a highly acclaimed audio guide, which brings to life the history of this glorious building.

Visitors can also climb the 275 steps to the top of the central tower to experience wonderful views of York and the beautiful Yorkshire countryside. 

York Minster is currently in the midst of a multi-million pound restoration of its east front.  Visitors will soon be able to learn first hand about the techniques used to restore such a historically and architecturally important building, as exhibitions inside the Minster will give an insight into the stained glass conservation and stone masonry work which is being used to keep the Cathedral in all its glory for future generations.

As well as attracting nearly a million visitors each year, the Minster is a working church and holds over 30 well-attended services each week.  All visitors to the Minster are encouraged to attend services and experience the wonderful choral tradition which continues in this glorious cathedral.

The Minster is open for sightseeing from:

April to October: 9.00am – 5.00pm (Sunday from 12.00 noon to 3.45pm);
November – March: 9.30am – 5.00pm (Sunday from 12.00 noon to 3.45pm)

Opening times may change subject to major services.

For further information please see the Minster’s award winning website at www.yorkminster.org or contact the Visitors Department on 01904 557216 or e-mail This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

Service Times are normally:
Monday – Saturday
07:30 Matins
07.45 Holy Communion
12:30 Holy Communion (12.00 on Saturdays)
17:15 Choral Evensong (said on Mondays)

Sunday
08:00 Holy Communion
10:00 Sung Eucharist
11:30 Choral Matins (Sung Eucharist on first Sunday of the month)
16:00 Choral Evensong