WHY YOU’LL LOVE THE HISTORIC YORK MINSTER IN NORTHERN ENGLAND

When you visit York, there is one place you simply cannot miss – the historic York Minster. It took over 250 years to build, with construction starting in 1220 and ending in 1472. Since then, it has been the centre of the Church for the people of the north. Throughout history, it has witnessed the passage of monarchs and has stood through the Civil War. Today, it still stands tall and mighty in the town centre, towering over everything else in height. I have had the pleasure of visiting this cathedral twice before, and each time I have had a different experience.

During my first visit to this place, I was accompanied by my friend Jemma, and it was a particularly hot day in the middle of August. As it was a Saturday afternoon, it proved to be quite crowded, so much so that it was standing room only. However, we were able to secure a booking for the next available time slot to walk up the Minster’s 275 steps. The experience offered breathtaking views of York, but we were quite naive and didn’t know what to expect.

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SCALING NEW HEIGHTS

Being at the front of the queue, we were then given the go-ahead to start our descent. However, this climb really should come with a warning. As we both suffered from anxiety, Jemma was at the front of the line, so she had to go first. The walls are incredibly thin, and after about fifty steps, the poor thing was literally out of breath, as most people would be. She just needed a quick breather to catch her breath, and within a minute or so, off we went again.

However, we climbed several more steps until she started slowing down again. So, we came to another stop. I could hear the mutterings of people down below: ‘Why are we stopping? What’s the hold-up?’ This didn’t help, nor did the walls, which seemed to be closing in on us the higher we got. Jemma sat down on the old stone steps, and I somehow managed to convince her to try to stand up and take a few more steps, which she did.

WILL WE EVER REACH THE SUMMIT?

Unfortunately, Jemma could only keep going for another minute or so, so we had to stop again. Sure enough, there came multiple cries of frustration from stopping yet again. Oh dear, people were starting to get angry. Fearing we were about to get lynched, I begged Jemma to get up, as I could see a light up ahead, which just gave her the push that she needed.

But it was a trick! It wasn’t the top of York Minster at all; it was a walkway that took us over the roof to the next set of stairs on the other side. Are you kidding me? However, this actually worked in our favour, as the pathway was marginally wider than a person, so when we got to the top, people started shoving past us in the hopes of not being stuck behind the world’s slowest climbers! We figured it was a good idea to let everyone pass us, including the snails and tortoises.

After a brief respite, we started our merry way to the top of Mount Everest again! Eventually, we were just meters from the top, and Jemma’s first thought was to quit on me, saying she couldn’t go on any further! So, I grabbed hold of her hips and practically pushed her up the rest of the stairs! What a good friend I am because we’d finally made it to the top.

Despite our fitness levels back then, we both agreed that the views were well worth almost dying of exhaustion for. We could see the beautiful town of York, as well as the countryside surrounding the town in the distance. We could see lovely, lush, green forests and villages beyond the city, with the most epic views. Sadly, the only downside was the ugly mesh fencing that blocked decent views, which is not ideal when trying to take photos. It wasn’t long before our time was up – literally! We only had a matter of minutes up there, as the next group was due up, and we had to make our way down before they could start coming up.

The downside was walking back down the 275 steps into the cathedral to see the baying mob waiting for us so they could ascend the one-way steps. Oops! Apologies to the next group waiting to go up. If you’re not very fit… you’ve been warned!

As I didn’t have a decent camera at the time, I only had my phone with me. This was before the days of portable power banks, and I wouldn’t leave the house without one now. My friend suggested trying to find a plug socket to charge our phones, as they were also serving as our cameras for the day. We had already used up about 85% of our batteries, so we sat there for a good 20 to 30 minutes, just chatting. It was during this time that my friend humorously remarked that we were essentially stealing ‘God’s electricity.’ This still manages to make us laugh to this day!

Due to being on a tight budget that day, we couldn’t afford to pay for both a tour of the Minster’s interior and the climb to the top, so I postponed the interior visit until my next trip to York, which took place a few years later on a very cold December morning. During this return visit, I finally had the chance to properly explore the magnificent interior. It’s truly remarkable, designed in the shape of a cross as a nod to Jesus on the cross and seemingly stretching out for miles. It is, by far, the longest church I’ve ever visited. The Gothic interior is flooded with light. While cathedrals often have numerous windows, this one is distinct because it’s built from cream-coloured stone, and the ceiling is white, allowing the light to bounce off the walls.

The stained-glass windows are exceptionally beautiful, especially the famous Rose Window. Crafted in a circular shape and composed of over 300 panels depicting scenes from the Bible, it’s definitely a highlight when you explore the interior.

Towards the back of the Minster, you’ll find a section of tombstones belonging to people of significance who have died in the area and been laid to rest inside. You could say it’s like the northern version of Westminster Abbey. Some of the well-known people who died and were buried here include Prince William, the son of King Edward III, and Queen Philippa, from the 1300s. Prince William tragically passed away as a young boy while visiting the area with the King. Additionally, a former Archbishop by the name of Thomas Savage was buried here in 1507.

As you explore the area, be sure to check out the stunning gold plaque in memory of the soldiers who fought and died in the war with Russia from 1854 to 1855. During my visit at Christmas time, I was fortunate to see a beautiful wreath hanging from the ceiling, adorned with holly and red ribbons. It was truly enchanting.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO:

IS IT FREE TO ENTER YORK MINSTER?

No, it’s not free to enter York Minster. There are several tickets available to purchase. To explore the Minster only, for an Adult or Senior costs £16.00pp. For students (not studying in York) will set you back £14.00pp. A child ticket is anyone under the age of 17 is free with a paying adult. York residents or students are also free with proof of address.

For those brave enough after reading this blog post, willing to climb the Minster, this ticket will cost £22.00 for Adults or Seniors, for Students (not studying in York) £20.00, and for Children between the ages of 8-17 is £6. Please note: To climb the tower you must be aged 8+.

WHAT ARE THE OPENING HOURS?

Opening hours vary depending on what part of the Minster you’d like to explore. See below:

OPENING TIMES

Mon to Sat: 9.30am – 4pm
Sun: 12.45pm – 3.15pm

UNDERCROFT MUSEUM

Mon to Sat: 10:30am – 4pm
Sun: 1:15pm – 2:45pm

SHOP

Mon to Sat: 10.00am – 5.00pm
Sun: 12.30pm – 4.00pm

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT?

The best time to visit York Minster is first thing in the morning or just before the last admission, as there are generally fewer crowds. Also, weekdays and outside of school holidays are usually quieter.  

HOW MUCH TIME WOULD YOU RECOMMEND SPENDING AT YORK MINSTER?

If you’d like to visit the whole Minster including the walk to the top, and the Undercroft Museum, then I would allow at least 2 hours to see everything, so you’re not rushing.

CAN YOU PRE-PURCHASE TICKETS FOR THE MINSTER AHEAD OF TIME?

Yes, and the tickets are valid for 12 months when purchased online.

ARE THERE TOILETS ON SIGHT?

Yes, the toilets are located in the Minster near the North Transept. They also include baby-changing facilities.

In summary, York Minster, a towering masterpiece with over 250 years of history, is a must-visit. Its climb of 275 steps offers breathtaking views and memorable challenges. The interior boasts remarkable Gothic architecture, stained-glass wonders like the Rose Window, and a resting place for historical figures. Don’t miss the poignant tribute to soldiers who fought in the Crimean War. York Minster, a timeless gem, promises unforgettable experiences whether you ascend to its heights or delve into its history.

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