Going to Bed in Medieval England

All Saints North Street's famous Pricke of Conscience window includes an unusual detail: two people lying in bed, while the apocalypse rages around them and Death stands ready. A similar bed can be seen in the Corporal Acts of Mercy window, this time occupied by a sick inhabitant attended by his worried wife.

In this interdisciplinary romp around the beds and bed chambers of late-medieval England, historian Hollie Morgan will be looking at real people's domestic space alongside the stories which inspired, and were inspired by, the way people used and thought about their beds.

Come and hear stories of what happened in bed in the Middle Ages, why these beds are in the church window and the curious things people did with their beds in public.

This event is presented as part of the York Festival of Ideas. Booking is not required and attendance is free, though we suggest a donation of £5 to help us cover costs. Donations can be made by cash and card within the church.

Please note: Most of the church is wheelchair accessible except for the chancel, high altar, and anchorhold (open for special events only), though some floors are uneven due to the historic nature of the building.