Experience York Minster in a new light this autumn when the cathedral is illuminated with PHOENIX, a brand-new sound and light projection.

On Monday 9 July 1984, a devastating fire destroyed the roof of York Minster’s South Transept and sent shockwaves through York, which reverberated across the world. The story of this fire is not just one of damage caused to one of the world’s most magnificent cathedrals, but also a story of bravery, resilience, and determination to rebuild.

Telling the story of that night and its aftermath, PHOENIX will commemorate the bravery of those that responded to the fire, celebrating the resilience of York Minster and the people of York through their own words, in the very place where it happened.

Inspired by the devastating fire of 1984, the new show celebrates bravery, power and ingenuity and highlights the importance of heritage restoration. See lightning strike the cathedral, lead pour down from the roof and the iconic Rose Window crack, before the clean-up operation begins and the expert restoration work leaves York Minster stood as a symbol of hope in the city once more.

PHOENIX is a major new projection mapping and sound installation by award-winning artists Ross Ashton and Karen Monid which will transform the nave of York Minster. The installation is bespoke, having been specially created to bring the cathedral’s unique architecture and history to life. Ashton and Monid also created ‘Northern Lights’ in 2019 and ‘Platinum and Light’ in 2022, two spectacular installations which attracted tens of thousands of people to the cathedral.

The events will help raise funds for the continuing restoration of the cathedral’s fabric. York Minster is one of the world’s most magnificent cathedrals, but with the current building dating from the 13^th century, it is a fragile masterpiece which needs constant care.

Tickets will go on sale on Tuesday 9 July via this page, or by calling 01904 557200.

Event times and prices

The events will open on Saturday 19 October and run each evening until Saturday 2 November.

Monday to Saturday, the projection will start at 7pm, with booking slots available every 15 minutes until 9pm. Doors will close at 9.30pm.

On Sundays, the projection will start at 6pm, with booking slots available every 15 minutes until 8pm. Doors will close at 8.30pm.

The projection will be shown on a continuous loop throughout the evening. Visitors can stay for as long or as little as they like after their timed entrance slot, and are invited to move location in the Nave and experience the installation from a different perspective.

Tickets cost £7.50 each, or £25 for a family ticket for up to two adults and two children (aged 16 and under). Tickets will go on sale on Tuesday 9 July via this page, or by calling 01904 557200.

*Please note that the projection includes flashing lights and loud music in places*