Discover one of the world’s most magnificent cathedrals, a masterpiece in stained glass and stone and a sacred space which has been at the centre of Christianity in the north of England since the 7th century.

The Minster was built for the glory of God and this is reflected in every aspect of this ancient building, from the exquisite handcrafted stone through to the unrivalled collection of medieval stained glass.

Marvel at the Great East Window, the largest single expanse of medieval stained glass in the country, take a guided tour filled with stories from the building’s 800-year history or visit the Undercroft Museum to explore the remains of a Roman barracks and the cathedral’s links to Viking York.

Climb the 275 steps of the Central Tower for panoramic views of the city or take a Hidden Minster Tour to discover spaces normally closed to public access. Additional charges apply.

Young adventurers can collect a Little Explorer Backpack filled with gadgets to help them explore the Minster including binoculars, a torch and a compass, or follow a trail or treasure hunt around the cathedral.

The Minster remains a thriving church and everyone is invited to join our daily services, including choral Evensong sung Tuesday to Sunday during term time by the Choir of York Minster, visit to pray or light a candle or simply spend time absorbing the atmosphere of the cathedral.

Exhibitions for 2024

Out of the Ashes - runs until summer 2025

Discover the story behind the 1984 fire that threatened to destroy York Minster through a new exhibition commemorating the 40^th anniversary of the blaze.

The exhibition journeys through the dramatic events of 9 July 1984, when the roof of the South Transept was struck by lightning. It details the heroic rescue efforts, clean-up operation and four-year restoration using eyewitness accounts.

Treasures: Yorkshire’s People and Parishes – runs until spring 2025

Discover silver, gold and diamonds in a new exhibition that showcases treasures of Yorkshire that have survived religious turmoil, fire, and war.

The exhibition offers a fascinating glimpse into Yorkshire life with cherished pieces from across the North coming together to form one celebratory narrative. The objects are proudly local but tell national and global stories as the exhibition travels across counties and through parishes, charting changing cultures and traditions in churches. Learn more here.

Light, Glass and Stone: Conserving the St Cuthbert Window – runs until winter 2024

See at close range medieval stained glass from the St Cuthbert Window, one of the largest surviving narrative windows in the world, and learn about the Minster’s major project to conserve the window and the stonework of the South Quire Transept. Learn more here.

All exhibitions are included with general admission.