York Minster

York Minster invites everyone to discover God's love through our welcome, worship, learning and work. For over a millennium, people have come to seek inspiration in this place of wonder. York Minster is one of the world’s most magnificent cathedrals, a masterpiece in stained-glass and stone, with foundations rooted in the nation’s earliest history and its vast spaces are brought to life with the glory of worship and heavenly music.

Today as a working cathedral, we welcome visitors from around the world to share in our daily life and worship, explore the past and enjoy a busy programme of events and concerts.  This wonderful heritage belongs to us all, and we invite you to experience it for yourself.

For Schools:

The Learning Centre

The centre is located in St William's College, adjacent to the East End of the Minster. You can choose from a range of workshops to find out about the past and present life of the Minster. Many topics link into the National Curriculum. The hour in the centre is based on inter-active teaching, which includes a multi-media presentation and (depending on your workshop choice) models, a working replica of a masons' loft, vestments and medieval stained glass on a light box. Students can also learn for themselves from a variety of relevant hands-on activities.

The other hour is a guided tour of the Minster, taken by the same teacher who leads the centre session. Teaching sessions and topics are suitable for all age ranges, from reception classes to sixth-forms and college students.

Guided Tour

A general tour of the Minster led by one of our Volunteer School Guides. The tour does not include the Undercroft, Treasury & Crypt, or the Central Tower.

Climb the Central Tower

Ascend the 275 steps to the top of the tower for unrivalled views across the city and the Vale of York. Can you spot the White Horse of Kilburn, the “golf balls” on Menwith Hill, The Nestle Chocolate factory, or the Drax power station some 15 miles away?