As you approach York from any direction, it is likely that the first thing you see is The Minster. It towers over the city, dwarfing all other buildings. Thanks to conservative planning laws, the Minster still retains the same majesty and wow factor that it must have had to pilgrims several centuries ago.
Ever since the Middle Ages, York has been regarded as one of the principle ecclesiastical centres in the land. Before tourism was “invented” thousands of pilgrims would flock to York to worship in the many churches within the city walls, and marvel at the sight of the Minster. Just imagine… in a time before skyscrapers, industrialisation and mass media; travelling from far and wide, from poor rural villages and farmland, and seeing the size and majesty of the Minster. These people would never have seen anything like it before – they would barely believe that man was capable of building such wondrous monuments. Hardly surprising that it instilled the fear of God in to them!! Even today, you can’t help but be impressed by the grandeur and sheer scale of the building, complete with intricate artwork, ancient stained glass and intricate carvings. It is not surprising that it took approximately 250 years to complete!
York has always played a pivotal role in English religion. Two millennia ago there was a range of polytheist Roman-based religions, as well as regional deities in the city. However, even then the first Christian communities were starting to develop a stronghold in the city. The first evidence of this is in a document noting the attendance of Bishop Eborius of Eboracum at the Council of Arles in 314.
Archbishop of York
The Archbishop of York is the second highest ranking cleric in the Church of England, second only to the Archbishop of Canterbury. It originates from the position of Bishop of York, which was established by Paulinus in 626.
John Sentamu, Current Archbishop of York
In 735 AD it was elevated to Archbishop, with the first Archbishop being Ecgbert. The current holder of the position is John Sentamu. Many Archbishops of York are promoted to the top job as Archbishop of Canterbury, which is the principal leader of the Church of England, and head of the worldwide Anglican Communion.
Bishopthorpe Palace, Residence of the Archbishop
The official residence of the Archbishop is Bishopthorpe Palace, located a couple of miles south of the city. The palace features a mixture of buildings including the official residence, a beautiful 18th century gatehouse and a Brewhouse. The main residence sits in a wooded area by the River Ouse in Bishopthorpe, and is located across the road from St. Andrews Church. Unfortunately the house and grounds are not open to the public.
Bishopthorpe Palace
Other notable York Churches
There are 32 churches within the city walls, many of which are well worth a visit. York’s churches provide a timeline through history, dating back from Anglo-Saxon times through to the modern day. Some of the more interesting churches include:
All Saints (North Street)
All Saints possesses a fine collection of original 14th century stained glass. Two windows of note depict “Corporal Acts of Mercy”, and the “Pricke of Conscience”. Look for the stained glass figure depicted wearing eyeglasses. The church dates back as far as the 12th century, though much of what remains was added in the 14th and 15th centuries. The West tower, 120 feet high, is 15th century. The church was heavily restored after a 1997 fire.
Admission: Free.
All Saints (Pavement / High Ousegate)
The second All Saints church in York is easily noticed due to its striking octagonal 15th century lantern tower. In the medieval period a lantern was hung from the tower to act as a beacon for travellers in the Forest of Galtres to the north. The church, first mentioned in the Domesday Book, is the burial place of 39 Lord Mayors. Look for the 12th century door knocker depicting the Mouth of Hell.
Open: 8am-5.30pm for visitors.
Admission: Free.
Bar Convent (Tadcaster Road)
The Bar Convent is the oldest living convent in England founded in 1686. It is now housed in a splendid neo-classical Grade 1 listed Georgian building, which was built in 1766 to designs by Thomas Atkinson. The dome is painted white, with accents in gold. Eight fluted columns support the dome. Joseph Hansom, inventor of the hansom cab, was baptised here in 1803. Visit the Bar Convent museum to learn about the early history of Christianity in northern England. Admission is normally free. Open Mon – Fri, except for public holidays. For more information go to: www.bar-convent.org.uk
Holy Trinity Church (Goodramgate)
Tucked behind a row of houses said to be among the oldest in England is the 15th century Holy Trinity church. There was a church on this site at the time of the Domesday Book, but most of the present church exterior dates from the 17th and 18th centuries. The red brick entrance was built in 1776. The interior is notable for its irregular box pews, also 17th century, and some fine medieval stained glass.
Admission: Free, but donations welcome.
Disabled access.
St. Michael-le-Belfry (High Petergate)
Just to the south of the Minster is the low, squat shape of St. Michael-le-Belfry. Just inside the entrance is an enlarged copy of the church registry dated April 16, 1570, recording the baptism of Guy Fawkes. The current church was built in 1525-37, replacing an even earlier building. The interior contains an elegant 1702 gilded reredos and 16th century carved benches.
Admission: Free.
Disabled access.
