York Minster is the place visitors make a bee-line for when they arrive. This incredible cathedral is the jewel in the crown of the City’s many treasures. But where are the best spots to view (and snap!) it from?
We list the best views below so you can take your own walking tour of the Minster & come home with the most impressive shots of this wonder.
1. Walking to the City Centre – Museum Street
If you arrive in York by train, you’ll be treated to the view up Museum Street as you walk to the City Centre. It’s one of the most photographed views in York, and you can see why, the looming West Towers of the Minster are majestic. These towers are home to the 56 bells of the Minster, the biggest weighing 3 tons!
2. A Secret View of The Minster – Precentor’s Court
Just round the corner at Precentor’s Court is this hidden view, which most tourists miss! Perfect for a unique selfie, the view showcases the ‘Heart of Yorkshire’ window (so called because it’s in the shape of a heart) and is one of the most romantic spots in the City. Did you know that York Minster has been the venue to several Royal Weddings?
3. Walking on the City Walls – Bootham Bar to Monk Bar
No visit to York would be complete without a walk on the City Walls, and the walk from Bootham Bar to Monk Bar provides one of the best full views of the Minster. This stretch of wall has a viewpoint at the tower nicknamed ‘Robin Hoods Tower.’ Learn more about the connection between York & Robin Hood on our ‘Secrets & Legends’ tour!
4. Ancient Street with a Hidden View – Chapter House Street
Hidden behind the Minster is Chapter House Street, this secret little lane follows the route of a street from the Roman fortress that lay here, so it’s possibily one of the oldest in the UK! The view of York Minster up this atmospheric cobbled lane is one of our personal favourites and one that most tourists miss
5. The Magnificent East Window – College Street
York is famous for railways & chocolate, but did you know it’s also known for it’s medieval stained glass? The centre piece of York’s ancient stained glass is the Great East Window of York Minster, which was finished in 1408, over 600 years ago! This fragile masterpiece has survived sieges, fires & bombings and one of the best places to view it is on College Street. Take tea or a coffee at one of the cafe’s on the lane for the best experience.
Map of the Best Views of York Minster:
Honorable mentions
The view from the City Walls, near York Railway station provides a complete view of the Minster with the medieval city Walls in the foreground. For an impressive view of the Minster’s west facade head to Exhbition Square, outside the Art Gallery. For another hidden view go to Bartle Garth, where you can view the East Window towering over nearby houses.
👉 Join Us on one of our unique tours to experience these views in person & learn more about the Minster.
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