Discover York Minster’s royal connections and collections through an exhibition exploring the cathedral’s centuries-old relationship with the monarchy in celebration of the Coronation of King Charles III.

The influence of the monarchy can be traced throughout York Minster’s history. From the humble baptism of King Edwin of Northumbria on Easter Day in 627 in a small wooden church built hastily for the service – the first York Minster, to HM King Charles III’s poignant return in November 2022 to unveil a statue of his late mother, Queen Elizabeth II. Explore these royal events and how they have shaped life and worship at York Minster over the centuries.

See a Bible and matching Prayer Book, bound in red velvet and finely decorated in silver with the keys of St Peter, purchased by York Minster with a grant from King Charles I, a Minster Police truncheon with royal arms, Maundy Money distributed by Queen Elizabeth II during her last visit to York Minster in 2012 and the Great Seal of Queen Anne used to authenticate important documents.

Other highlights include the ancient ‘coronation chair’, once believed to have been used in the coronation of Anglo-Saxon kings, which was carried ablaze from York Minster following a fire in 1829, Chinese silk gifted to Queen Victoria on her wedding day and a Victorian fire bucket with a royal crest. A brilliantly coloured cope worn by Thomas Secker, Archbishop of Canterbury, to officiate at George III’s coronation draws the eye.

Visitors can also try on regal robes, bear a crown and sceptre, and pose for a majestic photograph showing off their best royal wave with a soft-toy corgi, before adding their wishes for the Coronation year to a special crown-shaped tag.

The exhibition, which takes place in the cathedral’s Treasury, will run until Sunday 1 October.

Entrance to the exhibition is free with general admission – book your timed entry ticket here.