York Minster

Young explorers are encouraged to get hands-on during a visit to York Minster with a range of activities to help them discover the cathedral’s stories and fun facts.

Admission is free for up to four children (aged 17 and under) with one paying adult and York residents go free with valid proof of address.

Grab a Little Explorer Backpack

Little Explorer Backpacks can be borrowed for free from our welcome desks and are packed with gadgets to help young adventurers explore the Minster including:

I-Spy challenge – can you spot these details around the cathedral?
Binoculars – to see those amazing features up-close
Torch and mirror – to investigate the nooks and crannies
Compass and map – to find your way
Magnifying glass – to spot those hidden details
Coloured pencils and paper – sketch what you see!
Tape measure and pencils – for measuring and recording

Get hands-on in the Undercroft Museum

See the remains of an original Roman barracks through glass floors beneath the Minster. Touch archaeological remains uncovered over the centuries, including objects from our Viking past and use our interactive, digital displays to explore nearly 2,000 years of history at the site.

Find out more about what the Undercroft has to offer here.

We run special family events, services and activities throughout the year including during school holidays – see details of our regular groups below or visit the What’s On section for full details.

Minster Mice

Our fun, weekly service aimed at pre-school children and their parents/carers meets on Wednesdays at 10.00am for songs, stories, crafts and refreshments. This is a free session with no booking required.

FAQ for family visitors

Does the cathedral have baby change facilities?

Yes. You can find these facilities by the main toilets in the North Quire Aisle. See our map of the Minster for more details.

Can we bring a buggy?

Yes. There is ramped access at the main entrance to the Minster at Precentor’s Court and the main areas of the cathedral – except the Tower – have level, ramped or lift access.

Is the cathedral breastfeeding friendly?

Yes. Breastfeeding is welcome throughout the cathedral and we have a special Children’s Chapel – St Nicholas’s Chapel – set aside for family use.

Do you have a café?

There is no café at the Minster but there are a range of food and drink outlets on our doorstep.

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We have a range of trails to help young explorers discover the cathedral.

Events, services and activities

Explore our green spaces

FAQ for family visitors

An unforgettable destination for family days out

We have a range of trails to help young explorers discover the cathedral.

Events, services and activities

Explore our green spaces

FAQ for family visitors

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