Meet Our Master Mason Emeritus
For nearly five decades, York Minster has been cared for under the guidance of our Master Mason Emeritus, John David.
Responsible for the planning and design of the cathedral’s stonework, John is a true master of his craft. He is our longest-serving member of staff and continues to work to conserve a building he helped to repair 40 years ago, following the devastating fire of 1984 – during which he helped carry precious treasures away from the blaze and later worked tirelessly to restore it to its glory.
Hear from John as he shares his role in caring for York Minster and gives a first-hand account of the 1984 fire.
Meet A Stonemason
York Minster has been home to a team of stonemasons for more than 800 years.
The skills and techniques employed by the team have been passed down through the centuries as they continue to be responsible for the ongoing care and restoration of the cathedral and its surrounding precinct. Every stone is still cut by hand on site at the Minster using similar types of mallets and chisels as their medieval predecessors possessed.
It has never been more important that these ancient skills are sustained through continuous investment in the next generation of skilled cathedral stonemasons.
Hear from our stonemason, Freya, as she shares what it’s like to be part of the team shaping a lasting legacy at York Minster.
Meet the Gardeners
Our dedicated team of Gardeners diligently tend to York Minster’s seven hectares of green space throughout the year, ensuring every corner thrives in every season.
From Dean’s Park to Minster Gardens and College Green, these tranquil spaces offer a peaceful haven for both wildlife and people; a chance to pause and step away from the city’s busy rhythm. It’s always a joy to see visitors relaxing, exploring, and making the most of these beautiful places.
Find out what caring for these spaces means to the team on the ground.
Meet Our Digital Surveyor
At York Minster, we’re shaping the future of heritage conservation. As a world leader in traditional crafts, we’re committed to pioneering the use of the latest digital technologies to help us protect, preserve and sustain our past.
Luke, our Digital Surveyor, plays a vital role in this transformation. Using high‑precision 3D scanners, he creates incredibly detailed digital models of our centuries‑old masonry, architecture and artefacts. These innovations open the door to new restoration techniques and new ways for people to experience the Minster’s history.
Find out more about how Luke’s work is key to our ongoing conservation and preservation of York Minster and discover more about some of the projects he’s been working on:
Stoneyard Apprentice James Digger
We catch up with first-year apprentice James Digger about life at the Minster and his thoughts on #StoneFest18
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