Explore York Minster in your own way.
Self-guided school groups are invited to discover York Minster on their own and discover this magnificent cathedral in their own way. Lead by your own school leaders pupils can discover everything from the majesty of the Great East Window to Roman foundations buried beneath their feet. Take your time to explore the stunning medieval architecture and sacred spaces.
To enhance your group’s visit, we have two engaging activity trails to choose from. These will be handed out to groups together with a comprehensive teacher’s resource when you arrive at the Minster. You can also preview them and download them below prior to your visit. Other resources and guides are also available below.
Minster Detectives with Mason Mouse - Teacher Resource
A comprehensive guide for the Minster Detectives trail for teachers.
DownloadMinster Detectives with Mason Mouse - Easy Read Version
An easy read version of our Minster Detectives with Mason Mouse trail.
DownloadMinster Navigators with Mason Mouse - Teacher Resource
A comprehensive guide for the Minster Navigators trail (for teachers/parents)
DownloadMinster Navigators with Mason Mouse - Easy Read Version
An easy read version of our Minster Navigators with Mason Mouse trail.
DownloadA brief history until 1472
From the origins of York to the completion of the Minster, this fact sheet outlines the key moments in the Minster's history.
DownloadA brief history from 1472
The story of the Minster from its completion right up until the recent restoration of the East Front.
DownloadInvaders and Settlers
Discover how the Romans, Anglo Saxons and Vikings influenced the development of York and the Minster.
DownloadMedieval Minster (KS3)
Designed for teachers and students investigating the Minster as a medieval cathedral. Contains information and illustrations to make your own worksheets, or to use as a guide inside the Minster.
DownloadPlace of Worship (KS3)
Designed for teachers and students investigating the Minster as a Christian place of worship.
Download
Undercroft Museum
Get hands on with history
Explore 2,000 years of history housed in state-of-the-art interactive chambers beneath the Minster. Visitors to the Undercroft, which is the only accredited museum in a cathedral in the country, can see the remains of Roman barracks, discover the Minster’s Viking connections and see artefacts never before on public display.
Entry to the museum is included with every visit.
Find out more
Guided tours and workshops
Let our Guides spark their imagination
Want a little more? Why not try one of our Facilitated sessions?
Pupils engage in an interactive two-hour experience starting with a guided tour exploring the historical, spiritual, and architectural wonders of York Minster. This is followed by a hands-on workshop where they can dive deeper into the subject matter through engaging activities and discussions.
An additional facilitation fee of £35 applies for each booking.
Book a workshopCost:
£6.50 per pupil. One accompanying adult with up to ten children goes free. £13 for each additional adult (excluding staff required for KS1/SEN).
Prices include VAT and apply to children in full time compulsory education.
Hyundai Great British School Trip
Apply for a bursary
We are proud to be a part of the Hyundai Great British School Trip, enabling schools to apply for bursaries towards the cost of their trip to support travel costs and admission fees.
Apply for a bursarySelf guided Pre-Visit Information Pack
DownloadYork Minster Self Guided Visit Risk Guidance
DownloadBooking:
For more information, contact our Bookings Team on t: 01904 557275, e: bookings@yorkminster.org or via our booking request form below. See a full copy of our bookings terms and conditions here.
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