Founded in 1928, the Friends of York Minster is an independent charity which works to help the cathedral preserve its past and inspire future generations. 

Since its Foundation, the Friends of York Minster have helped conserve and restore the cathedral and support its purpose as a place of worship and ministry for all.  

How the Friends have made a difference

The Friends have supported a wide range of specific projects over the years, from maintaining and improving music and ornaments, to supporting education and activities for young people.  

On 31 March 2023 the Dean, the Very Revd Dominic Barrington blessed and opened the newly designed College Green. The area, which has been redeveloped to include new benches and low-level play features for families, is planted with trees, shrubs and flowers chosen to attract pollinators. The main feature, a long stone bench reflecting the shape of the Great East Window of the Minster, was financed by a generous legacy left to the Friends by Mrs Terry Fowler. The bench is widely used by visitors, and locals enjoying the space. 

Become a Friend of York Minster

There are currently over 2,500 members of the Friends of York Minster. Their annual subscriptions help fund specific projects that conserve and restore the cathedral, while supporting its mission as a place of worship and ministry for all.

As well as directly contributing to the work of the cathedral, members enjoy a number of additional benefits including:

• Free entry to York Minster.
• Discounts in the York Minster Shops and special offers on Friends’ Christmas cards.
• Invitations to special events, lectures, outings and social gatherings.
• Regular updates via newsletters and annual reports.

Annual membership starts from £20. Please see below for full details of how to join.

How to Join the Friends

If you are interested in joining from overseas, please get in touch via 01904 557 237 or friends@yorkminster.org 

Friends of York Minster
9 Minster Yard
Deangate
York
YO1 7JA 

Registered Charity No. 1195675