York Minster

York Minster is a must-visit for anyone spending time exploring the wonderful city of York.

One of the world's most impressive cathedrals, York Minster, is an impressive display of Gothic architecture with over 800 years of history to discover. Find out everything you need to know when visiting York Minster, including how to book tickets, what you’ll see throughout your visit and facility information.

Booking York Minster tickets

Book your tickets to visit York Minster in advance here. Money generated from ticket sales goes to the maintenance of the cathedral, and you can return for free anytime within 12 months of purchasing your ticket. Children 17 and under can visit for free with a paying adult.

Tower Trips are weather-dependent, so tickets can only be booked on the day.

York Minster opening times

York Minster is open seven days a week for visitors, but opening hours do vary throughout the week, so it’s best to check opening times in advance.

Things to see and do at York Minster

York Minster has been the focal point of Christianity in the north of England since the 7th century, so the ancient building has plenty to see and explore.

• Worship is the cornerstone of York Minster, and everyone is welcome to join in. View times of events at York Minster.
• Join the free guided tour included in your ticket, where an expert will take you around the cathedral and share facts and stories about the history of the ancient building.
• If you’re particularly interested in the cathedral’s medieval stained-glass windows, you’ll want to visit on a weekday to catch the 11am tour which covers the extensive collection.
• Visiting with kids? Borrow a Little Explorer Backpack from the welcome desk to make your visit an adventure!
• Climb 275 steps to reach the top of the Central Tower, York’s highest viewing point, with brilliant views over the city. You can book your trip to the top of the tower on the day of your visit, but be prepared with comfy shoes and expect tight spaces during the climb.
• Looking for a behind-the-scenes tour of spaces the public don’t normally get to see? Book a tour to see York Minsters’ hidden spaces. This includes the rare chance to see the Crypt or Old Mason’s Loft.
• Visit the Undercroft Museum to follow in the footsteps of Roman soldiers, see the remains of the Norman cathedral right under your feet and find out about how the Vikings were connected to York Minster.
• Make sure you don’t miss any current exhibitions at York Minster.

Getting to York Minster

Due to its central location, York Minster is easily accessible via public transport. York Railway Station is a 10-minute walk away, and you can plan your journey on Trainline. There are several bus services which stop nearby too.

Those planning on driving to York will need to park at one of the pay-and-display car parks in the city as there’s no parking available at the Cathedral, except for on-street accessible parking bays. There are also park-and-ride services available.

Accessibility at York Minster

The majority of York Minster is accessible for wheelchair and mobility scooter users. For full accessibility information, visit the York Minster website.