York Minster, England

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A day is never enough to explore the nooks and corners of York, one of England’s finest towns. The medieval city was founded by the Romans in 71 AD and captured by the Vikings in 866 AD till 954 when it was incorporated into the Kingdom of England.

After a night’s rest in Stratford-upon-Avon, Topdeck took us to York. Our accommodation was merely a 10-min walking distance to the city centre and Julia, the trip leader, briefed and showed us around the city before we were given half a day to roam the medieval streets.

You can’t miss York Minster. It has a long history that traces back to the Roman times and is by far one of the most magnificent architectural jewels we have come across. The largest of its kind in Northern Europe, York Minster is both a cathedral and a minster administered by the bishop.

Beautiful stained glass windows from the 15th century, medieval carvings, historic remains and treasures in the undercroft are just some of the very fine examples that attract visitors from all over the world. The Central Tower is one of the must-go sites as it provides a commanding vantage point for miles around the city.

York Minster.

An admission ticket into York Minster includes entry to the Undercroft, Treasury & Crypt. An adult ticket costs £8.00. For access to the Central Tower, it’s £5.00.

The Quire Screen that features the 15 Kings of England appearing to be guarding the entrance of the Quire.

One of the sculptures of the Kings.

A Church service at the Quire. The principal altar is at the east end of the Quire.

There is a specific timing to access the Central Tower. We are only allowed 30-min up at the tower for awesome panoramic views of York before the next batch of visitors takes turn.

The facade of York Minster with its Gothic spires.

Be prepared to climb up 275 steps to reach the top of the Central Tower for spectacular views.

On top of the Central Tower, you can walk one round for panoramic views of the city and afar.

A depiction of the city surroundings.

York Minster.

Since the 13th century, the Dean & Chapter have met to discuss the administration of the Minster in the Chapter House, notable for its intricate carvings.

The Chapter House with its striking glass windows and carvings.

While I was only armed with a little digicam this time, the man was sketching the carvings of the Chapter House!

Head carvings in the Chapter House.

Completed in 1260, the Five Sisters Window consists of five lancets at 50-ft high and contains more than 100,000 pieces of greyish-white glass.

The Quire and the organ console above the arch entrance of the Quire.

We are allowed to enter the Quire if there is no church service.

The Undercroft, Treasury & Crypt house the remains of the Roman fortress, Viking, Norman and medieval carvings, as well as treasures and jewels of the archbishops. No photo taking!