This is one of the most beautiful cathedrals I've seen in the world. Its colorful windows are really unique. They are starting a two year renovation in the window behind the main altar that will be completed by the end of 2019 so you will see scaffolding if you go between November 2017 and end of 2019. I could spend here hours looking into each of the windows and reading about its history. On top of that, the nave is huge! Make sure you sign up for a free guided tour since there are no audio guides. The elder lady is one of the best guides! I definitely have to come back and stay longer in York. Beautiful city. Or.... maybe I could move here! read more

An amazing building to view from both the inside and the outside. Even for people who are not in the slightest bit religious the intricacies of the stonework and the stained glass windows cant fail to impress. Not too expensive so definitely value for money. People can chose to enter just the Minster or to go up to the tower or down into the crypt, or they can choose to do all three. There were a few things dotted around for children to do, ie spot the gargoyle type creature! And there was plenty of historical information dotted around. Looking upwards the ceilings were amazing, worth going to see those alone. read more

York Minster - Churches Near Me - York, YOR

A gorgeous cathedral (& glorious to sing in as a chorister) the only sadness is that there is now a charge to go right in read more

York Minster - grave of De Grey, Bishop of Lichfield - Churches Near Me - York, YOR

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York Minster is absolutely beautiful. We had a wonderful time there today and there was one person who worked there named John, who was fantastic. He was patient with my 9 year olds constant questions and taught all of us so much about the long history of this majestic building. I would definitely recommend anyone traveling to York to visit. read more

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I love this building with its stunning architecture, glass windows, gargoyles and atmosphere. I would recommend for anyone visiting York to visit this building at least once. Its beauty never ceases to amaze me and theres always something new to see that you might not have noticed before. The gardens are lovely in the summer to sit and enjoy the building from outside with an ice cream. Not forgetting the gift shop for the children and their pocket money read more

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I spent 3 hours here, and could easily have stayed for much longer. I had a private tour by a local stained glass curator, so I felt quite privileged. This is a living, vibrant church in addition to being 800+ years old. I only wish I could have spent time listening to music, but alas, none were scheduled during my stay. Do take the time to go downstairs, under the cathedral to view the Roman and Norman parts of the cathedral complex to go further back into history. It is worth your while. read more

Incredibly large, beautiful cathedral. You can get some spectacular views from the City Walls, and it's hard to miss from anywhere in the city. Visiting the interior is a 10 pound fee, which might seem a bit much, but it's overwhelming inside. You can climb the tower for another 5 pounds, which is a better bet than Clifford's Tower if you're looking for amazing views. A not to be missed spot! read more

If you go to York (and you should go to York- it's a great place to visit) spend a lot of time here, and take a tour. We went through with a guide, who explained the history of the place and many of the decorations and carvings. I won't bore you with that- you can go to Wikipedia and find out all about it. What I will say is that this place is not to be missed. It's a terrific stop in a fantastic town. York is one of those places where you feel the pulse of history. I was lucky enough to visit this place with a lot of my students, who were so impressed by the grandeur of this place. I'm not sure young children would find it fascinating, but the teens I was with were suitably impressed. read more

York Minster is truly one of the great cathedrals in the world. It holds a particular place in my heart because I've heard it said that PPG Place in Pittsburgh--my hometown--was based in part by the Minster. First of all, the York Minster is huge. You could easily spend the entire day here. I strongly recommend you take one of the free guided tours, which generally last about an hour to an hour and a half. After taking the tour and getting a general overview of the Minster, you can come back and see the exhibits you want to in greater detail. We tried to explore as much of the Minster as possible. We descended into the Undercroft where workers found the remains of buildings that once existed on this site when they were doing some repair work about 40 years ago. We also climbed 275 steps to the top of the central tower, which was rewarding to say the least. Up there we got a great view of the grounds, the City of York, and the surrounding countryside. Just be aware that it's a tough, but rewarding climb up and that they may refuse access if they are not satisfied that you are able to make the climb up. But if I could mountain bike on some of the hills surrounding Pittsburgh, this was a piece of cake. Please be aware that when you visit the York Minster, you are visiting an actual religious facility. They remind you to act as such (gentlemen, remove your hats). Also be aware that they do charge you for this and that. They charge L 8.00 to get in and another five to climb up the tower. read more

I wanted to see so much more but the waiting area is quite oppressive. Lots of people crammed in waiting to pay. Pay? Oh dear I thought you would be able to walk around inside for free and pay if you wanted the tour. I like to amble at my own pace and not be led around in a group. I also didn't like being under the eagle eyes of the attendants who looked rather stern and it seemed like they were ready for trouble. Oh dear City of York. read more

One of the benefits of visiting the UK in March or April is the possibility of experiencing a historical site all to yourself. The cashier was a cheerful chap, inquired where I was from and if there was anything in particular I was interested in viewing at York Minister. Having attended Evensong at St. Paul's in London, I wanted to experience Evensong at York Minister. He laid out a plan including a tower climb and to be sure to be at a certain location at a certain time for Evensong. York Minister closes for the evening just prior to Evensong and to my surprise, this cashier sought me out and escorted me to the public seating area. Imagine the serenity of post-Evensong with 35-40 other members of the public in a nearly deserted church. It is an immense church well worth an afternoon's visit culminating with Evensong. read more

I normally dig bird's eye views, but luckily my bad knee was acting up so I didn't feel the need to pay the surcharge to climb the tower here. (OK, OK, it's actually money I'd have happily given for the upkeep and restoration of this incredible historical site.) But if you don't feel like climbing* or paying to climb, you need to come here anyhow. The main minster itself is staggering in scope and beauty, and, even cooler--at least for a nerd like me--was the undercroft! Vestiges of the Norman church are down there, as are visible excavations of the Roman age site, and an exhibit on the massive engineering program they had to undertake to keep the place from falling down. Wow! *Technically you do have to climb back out of the undercroft, but it's just one story, and I suppose if you're there with a sturdy companion, he or she could carry you back up to the main floor. read more

So they charge to let you in to this House of God. Which isn't unreasonable, of course, except for the silly way in which they price the tickets. Want to visit the crypt? That'll be an extra fiver (or whatever). Daft. Regardless, York Minster is really lovely. The architecture soars and swoops, making it perfectly clear to all medieval peasants that they'd better get on God's good side, sharpish, for he is an awesome brickie. The staff are nice and helpful, and very willing to explain certain areas of interest. They even gave the kids a "treasure hunt" sheet, so they could find some of the hidden architectural items of interest. If you're in York, visit. There's really no excuse not to. It's a truly awe-inspiring building, and reason enough for the town to exist all by itself. read more

Don't miss seeing the Minster if you are in York! What a beautiful place! My son and I took the tour, and our tourguide was so lovely! read more

Truly Gothic! Made to impress its hard to talk about it in an overall sort of way. High Gothic ceilings, flying buttresses, beautifully manicured lawns and an incredible view from the tower- are well worth the entrance fee. When I visited there was no fee, but from what I've heard since that's changed. If your ever in York UK, take a turn and enjoy the English heritage of this site! read more

York Minster - Churches Near Me - York, YOR

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I've been lucky enough to visit York Minster twice, 15 years between visits. On my first visit I was absolutely blown away by the history, architecture, beauty, and MAJESTY of the Minster. When I returned years later, I was somewhat afraid that my memories would turn out to be better than the reality. I am so pleased that I liked the Minster even better the second time! I love cathedrals in general, but the Minster is outstanding. I especially like the foundations downstairs. In addition to a nice exhibit on the history of the site (there has been a place of worship on the site since 627!), there is still a Roman sewer that operates, draining water from underneath the foundation. That is just SO cool. Great views from the top, too, if you'd like to walk up. read more

I lived in York for over 10 years and I can say it is one of the most beautiful Cities in the country, steeped in so much history, Viking, Medeival and Roman. The Beautiful York Minster still remains one of my favorite structures in the city to visit. The famous Rose window was destroyed along with a large part of one end of the minster by fire in 1984, but was then lovingly and beautifully restored to its former glory. The minster is a great place to spend an afternoon, wandering around and taking in the amazing architecture, listening to the choirs at evensong going down to the vaults to view the array of gold and silver religious artifacts and even a few tombs. One very interesting feature with the minster is that when they were strengthening the foundations, a church was unearthed and when the archaeologists were examining the church, a Roman fort was discovered beneath that, fascinating indeed that the minster is built on several levels of historical significance for the city. One of the highlights of the minsterfor me is climbing the steps to the top of the tower, very very thin and narrow steps, 365 in total, one for every day of the year and taking in the panoramic view of the City and surrounding areas. A very beautiful place to visit and a must for anyone visiting the City of York. read more

York Minster - Churches Near Me - York, YOR

Has to be one of the most beautiful buildings to put on your to see list.If York itself was'nt delightful enough it gives you York Minster.If your'e not into religion don't be put off,the building and architecture itself on it's own merit deserves a visit.Wondrous on the outside and just as beautiful on the inside you won't be disappointed. Although once free to get in the huge upkeep of the building dictates that it has had to charge for admission these days. Depending on where you wish to go it ranges from £5.50 to £9.50 per person. read more

Beautiful gothic cathedral! Mandatory for visiting! read more

York Minster - Churches Near Me - York, YOR

Another quite stunning Cathedral to rank alongside Salisbury and Wells.Admission is £9 plus an additional £5 to access the Tower which I thought was a bit pricey, especially as Wells only cost a 'suggested' donation of £5 and there was far more access to different parts of the building. Never-the-less, the Cathedral is quite stunning, beautiful HUGE stained glass windows, massive stone archs, quite, quite something to behold, the craftmenship that went into constructing these buildings is quite mind boggling. An essential, if rather over-priced, visit when in the charming city of York. read more

I have been to many churches and cathedrals all over the place but I must say this is one of the most impressive I have visited. It is huge and the structure is so nice. It really makes you feel inspired. It took a long time to build. There is the opportunity to visit the underground caves and the museum they have attached to the cathedral. They go into quite alot of detail about the history of the minster and how it was built. It is very interesting. If it's a clear day you can also pay to climb to the top and view the city which is well worth doing! read more

York Minster is of course the most delightful building in York. Visible as a landmark from just about everywhere in the city, and just like St Paul's in London there are protected lines of sight for this fabulous treasure of architecture. Though there are unfortunately now admission charges, these are waived for York residents (you need a Minster Card available from them take an official proof of address) and those wishing to worship. Visitors should be aware that one end of the Minster is presently covered in scaffolding and awning, as the Minister Yard masons get on with essential restoration and repair. Knowledgeable and engaging volunteer guides carry out regular tours. There are plenty of concerts and opportunities to worship and hear the fabulous choir. Also do not miss the Chapter House it is a gem, and often forgotten. If you're a University of York student, why not make use of the Minster Library as a beautiful place to study and research? http://www.yorkminster.org read more

Lovely building steeped in history - it's a pity that the modern trend with our great architecture is to create a sense of 'theme park' around them simply to encourage paying tourists. Governments should be made to fund our heritage - not visitors through tacky methods of encouragement aimed at relieving all and sundry with their cash. read more

Free entry with a York student card, otherwise paid entry, money goes to upkeep, and just marvel at the scale of everything when you're inside - it's amazing! The stained glass windows are beautiful and the intricate ceiling patterns are stunning but my favourite is looking at all the Latin memorials of people buried here. A great way to kill 2-4 hours. There is a fee to go upstairs to the roof or down into the undercroft, but both are worth seeing at least once. I've never had the audio guides so couldn't say how good they are. read more

York Minster is architecturally beautiful and we were lucky to visit on a sunny day which allowed us to see it in all its splendour. My boyfriend had visited it as a child and described being able to see from one end of the other with light flooding in from the stained glass windows. Unfortunately for us York Minster was hosting a series of plays during our visit with much of the Minster taken up by seating and staging which somewhat put a dampner on the experience. Definitely recommend a visit but worth checking ahead to ensure you get unobstructed views read more

Spectacular! A must see for York. (It would be like going to Paris and not seeing Notre Dame!)

Enjoy the view from the outside of this beautiful medievil minster take a peek through the doors of the interior but whatever you do do not pay the rip off entrance fee . read more

It's not my religion but I don't think it matters at all when you're talking about a place like this that is steeped in so much history and wonder. I've seen some people complaining about the £11 entrance, but that buys a ticket you can use as many times as you like over the next year. It is such a beautiful building that I visit sometimes at quiet times just to sit and look at the ceiling. A trip to the roof is worth it, but not for the faint of heart. It's an extra charge of (I think?) £5 and is limited to certain time slots, but it's the best way to get close to a real feeling of just how big the building is. It's easy to forget from ground level, but when you climb the steps - which is strenuous and not good if you're claustrophobic or don't like heights - you get a whole new appreciate of scale. The views from the roof over York are stunning and you get a real sense of how crowded the medieval layout was. One of the genuine wonders of the North of England and pretty much unmissable if you're visiting York :) read more

I do think that this is the most amazing buildings to look at. It is very impresses and must to visit if your in the city of York. It is a huge attraction which draws people to York and expect it to be busy with people fighing for space to get the perfect photograph. If you don't have time to go inside make sure you at least take a look around the outside. Not to be missed. read more

York Minster holds the distinction of being the only religious building I have ever paid to enter. Was it worth it? Well, yes. It's huge... way bigger than anything else and I've been to over a dozen old school European Cathedrals. The crypt below is also worth a visit, and try going when there aren't so many people (early or late) to get the most out of the awe inspiring design. read more

Not much more to say than the other reviews. It's a bit pricey at £10 (£15 to do the tower) but it does cost £20,000 a day to run. The place is massive. The view is good but not worth it if the weather is crap. The best bit is half way up where you can see the buttresses close up. The underground area is cool as you can see the remains of the Roman fort. read more

Definitely a must in York... 10 pounds entrance fee, but it is magnificent inside and out... If you don't have enough time, you can check this one off your bucket list in 20 minutes read more

Absolutely amazing. If you are in the area, it is a must see. The basic admission will allow you access to most of the minster. If you have time, schedule a tour of the tower, it's only £5. read more

York Minster is an absolutley stunning Gothic cathedrial ( the largest in Europe). If in York it is a must to visit, outside is impresive enough but if you can, venture inside, you are in for a treat. The site and the Minster are steeped in history, venture down to the undercroft and you can see ancient remains from previous buildings which were discovered in the 1960s while work was being done to strenghten the central tower.(This is very interesting but does cost extra) Also for an additional fee you can climb the stairs to the top of the central tower. There are many steps and they are steep and narrow, there is also a section where you leave the enclosed staircase and walk along the roof outside, protected by a rail but not great if you are affaid of hieghts. It is very hard work to get to the top and not suitable for anyone who is not very fit or is infirm. If you do decide to climb to the highest piont in York the reward is spectacular views of the city and surrounding countryside. Fantastic building, take a look at the stained glass windows, they are beautiful, in fact the whole building is, well worth a visit. read more

An amazing building with a long, long history and heritage behind it; it's probably worth a visit for that reason alone. Whilst you're there, it's worth climbing the tower for some spectacular views across the vale of York. So why only three stars? Well, call me old-fashioned, but I think Cathedrals should feel like places of worship; and whilst York Minster does to a certain extent, the exorbitant prices they charge for entry denude it of that feeling considerably. The worst thing is that they seem to justify the charge on the grounds that the ticket constitutes an annual pass, which basically amounts to a tax on tourists who are unlikely to return within the year. It costs extra to tour the tower and the crypt too. OK, I know these places cost a lot to maintain, but by setting up the admission charges in the way that they have I can't help but feel that the place has rather sold its soul. read more

York Minster - Churches Near Me - York, YOR

A must see!, for anyone coming to york, the minster absolutely steeped in history. I have been many time and love it

A beautiful building with a large amount of visual aspects to enjoy! i have visited many time being a photographer so this building draws me in for many different reasons. Its a shame you now have to pay to get in as i thought it was mainly about giving and helping but it depends who much you would want to see it. It still has its own unique presence in the city of York and still very interesting to visit even if you are not big on history or religion but trek to the top of the largest tower gives you an amazing view of the entire city! reasonably priced to climb the very high tower (not for the unfit) as it is crazy with small stairs and takes around 15 minutes to climb as many people do it. The staff are friendly and pleasant and cater for all people and nationalities and keep their professional image for themselves and the establishment! I will be visiting again soon but i hope the price does not rise. read more

Don't think twice: the view from the roof is AMAZING!!! You'll never forget this experience!!! It's not easy... But, if you are able to go there, then just go! I LOVED THE CITY OF YORK!!! read more

Went here last year - bought a ticket to visit the crypt, the minster itself and the tower. I was a bit disapointed with how much it cost - but you the ticket does last for 12 months. Really enjoyed the tower once I'd made it to the top - but if you dont like enclosed spaces then avoid at all costs! read more

One of the things I did on my day trip to York, and it was a good choice. I thought I wouldn't be as impressed because I'd just seen Canterbury Cathedral the previous weekend, but what put me over the edge with my good feelings about the place was the staff and enthusiasm of everyone who works there. At Canterbury, they just let the grandness speak for itself, but at York Minster, they give free tours throughout the day! My number one recommendation is to go on one of these tours. I got there just in time for the last one at 3pm on Saturday, and I'm really glad I did - the woman who led the group clearly cared a lot about the church, showing us all around to the main areas to see and telling us interesting stories about it. Also, I think the entry fee is very reasonable considering how much it costs them for upkeep and restoration. It is a really beautiful English church - both a minster AND a cathedral, fun fact, because those two things are not mutually exclusive (I learned that on the tour!) read more