Make room for
a little wonder.

Opening times

All times are local to York.

Sightseeing

09:30–16:00 · Monday to SaturdayLast admission 16:00; the building closes at 17:00

Sunday

12:45–14:30 · Sightseeing between servicesLast admission 14:30; no tower climbs on Sundays

Services and events

Parts of the Minster can closeClosed for sightseeing 16–20 November, 6, 24 and 25 December 2026

Allow time to explore before closing. Your ticket shows your date and entry time.

Finding the Minster

York Minster stands at the heart of the city, inside the city walls, and is signposted throughout the centre. Some of the surrounding streets are cobbled, but other routes avoid them.

• By train: York Minster is a ten-minute walk from York station.
• By car: there is no parking at the cathedral; use one of the city’s six Park and Ride sites (the nearest stop is on Museum Street) or the pay and display car parks at Monk Bar, Union Terrace or Bootham Row.
• Before arrival: leave time for the journey and entry checks so you are ready for your booked slot.

Useful stops along the way

Facilities can change through the year. Visitors can usually expect:

• An accessible toilet and baby changing inside the Minster.
• Free guided tours, included with admission.
• The Undercroft Museum and the Crypt beneath the Minster.
• The York Minster Refectory on the South Piazza for refreshments.

Leave large and wheeled bags behind: they are not allowed inside. Ask staff about current arrangements when you arrive.

A visit that works for you

York Minster has ramped or stepped access with handrails from Precentor’s Court, and most of the building is on one level, though only the first section of the Quire is accessible to wheelchair users. The Undercroft has lift access from the South Transept. The Central Tower has 275 steps and no wheelchair access. Induction loops are provided in parts of the building.

• Check arrangements for your particular mobility or access needs before travelling.
• If you are bringing a stroller, confirm the current arrangements before arrival.
• Ask Minster staff for assistance or directions during your visit.

Visit the cathedral respectfully

• Keep to the visitor paths, walk rather than run, and supervise children.
• York Minster is a place of worship: keep your voice low, switch your phone to silent, and don’t take photographs during services.
• Smoking and animals are not permitted on the site.
• Commercial photography and filming, including product promotion, need permission.
• Follow the signs and staff guidance, including any restrictions in the exhibition spaces.

A little care keeps the cathedral a place of quiet and prayer for everyone.

Make time for a pause

There is no café inside the Minster, and food may not be eaten inside. The York Minster Refectory on the South Piazza serves food all day, and the streets around the Minster have more cafés.

• Stop for breakfast, lunch, a hot drink or refreshments nearby.
• Leave room in your plans to sit down and enjoy the setting.
• Check opening hours and menus on the day; food and drinks are purchased separately.

Cold bottled drinks are allowed inside, but food is not.

A few details worth planning

• Book ahead: choose the date, time and places you want to visit before making other plans.
• Keep your QR ticket ready: save it on your phone or bring a printed copy, with any proof needed for reduced admission.
• Start in the right place: go to the visitor entrance of the Minster with your tickets ready, and arrive 10 minutes early for a tower climb.
• Dress for exploring: comfortable shoes, a layer for a cool building and a charged phone make the visit easier.
• Leave space to linger: allow at least a couple of hours for the nave, the Chapter House and the Undercroft.