‘Minster Gardens’ has been opened to the public by the Dean of York for the city and visitors to enjoy following the completion of works. The new gardens feature a spectacular view of the cathedral and include extensive lawns, wildflower planting and new benches set in landscaped borders. The gardens will also include a drinking fountain for members of the public to refill their water bottles and is adjacent to extensive cycle parking and the new cycle maintenance point. The planting has been selected especially to attract bees and increase biodiversity within the Precinct. The gardens were designed by Re-Form Landscape Architects as part of the wider development of the York Minster Refectory which opened in April.

His Majesty King Charles III unveiled an official ledger stone to mark the creation of the new gardens following the Royal Maundy at York Minster on 6 April 2023 and this has been set into the main entrance. The ledger stone was carved by Richard Bossons, the Minster stonemason who designed and created the statue of the late Queen which now stands on the West Front of the Minster. Minster Gardens will be open daily from 07:30 to 17:30.  All are welcome to enjoy this new greenspace.