We’ve seen the Romans, Anglo-Saxons, Vikings and Normans. Now, we’re ready for you.

Come rain or shine, York Minster is the perfect place for family fun this February half term. With hands-on activities, visiting Vikings, immersive cinematic experiences and creative crafts, there’s something for every generation to enjoy.

Discover what’s happening throughout the week and plan your half‑term adventure at York Minster.

All of the activities listed below are included with a sightseeing ticket, and there is no pre-booking required. 

Living History

Join us as we take part in the Jorvik Viking Festival, and welcome costumed interpreters to York Minster.

What have you always wanted to ask a Viking? Have you ever wondered what life was like in York when the Vikings ruled? Now’s your chance to find out! Meet a Viking of old Jorvik and discover more about their life in York…

These sessions will run each day at:

• 10am – 12.30pm
• 1.30pm – 3.30pm

They take place in St Stephen’s chapel inside the Minster. The sessions operate on a drop-in basis, no booking required.

Cinematic Experience

Discover the legacy of craft inspired by St William of York reimagined in a new film produced in collaboration with York-based studios Hewitt and Walker and Viridian FX. 

The shrine has been recreated using 3D laser scanning technology, now employed by the Minster to aid conservation efforts, and a 3D gaming engine, Unreal Engine, used to create realistic environments for blockbuster games and films.

This short film will run on a continuous loop throughout each day and visitors are invited to watch for as long as they wish.

Craft Activities

Be inspired by the beautiful artwork of medieval glaziers and have a go at designing your very own stained glass window panel. Add your masterpiece to our board to help us create a beautiful new window here at the Minster.

Backpacks & Trails

Borrow a Little Explorer Backpack from the Welcome Desks. Each backpack is packed full of gadgets to help you on your adventure through the medieval Minster. Or why not take on one of the York Minster Quest trails, all free to pick up as you arrive at the Welcome Desk. Perfect for keeping little brains busy!

Undercroft Museum

Get hands on with history in our state-of-the-art Undercroft Museum. Follow in the footsteps of Roman soldiers, touch archaeological remains uncovered over the centuries, and explore changing exhibitions in the Treasury. Feeling strong? See if you can lift a replica of ‘The Horn of Ulf’, a 1,000-year-old elephant tusk gifted to the cathedral by a Viking lord!

Good to Know:

The Minster is yours to explore with an annual family pass starting from just £20. Adult tickets are priced at £20 and include entry for up to four children aged 17 and under for a whole year. So, two adults and up to eight children can explore one of the world’s most magnificent cathedrals as many times as you like for just £40!

Enjoy tours, trails, exhibitions, an accredited museum, and backpacks filled with gadgets, all designed to help your young adventurer discover the cathedral’s 1400-year history. We encourage children and families to get hands-on during a visit.