Discover the miracles, murder and mystery of our city’s patron saint in our new exhibition St William of York: Life and Legacy.

William fitzHerbert was twice Archbishop of York during the 12th century. Although he was loved by the people of York, his appointment was riddled with political and religious disputes which ultimately led to his untimely death. William became violently ill while celebrating Mass and quickly rumours began to spread that his communion chalice had been poisoned by one of his enemies.  No concrete proof of foul play has ever been discovered and the true circumstances surrounding William’s untimely death remain an unsolved mystery…

As we celebrate 800 years since the canonisation of William as a saint, take the rare opportunity to see pieces from his medieval Nave shrine returned to York Minster for the first time in almost 500 years. Explore his story and see precious artefacts which narrate the life of a man who devoted himself to our city and cathedral.

Amongst the treasures on display are a delicately decorated ivory casket was made in Sicily with Arabian design influences, a reproduction of the only surviving seal of Archbishop William, and the stone which fell on the head of an unsuspecting man who was miraculously saved from harm.

Visitors are invited to discover the exhibition plus a new cinematic experience, before journeying through the Crypt to see St William’s tomb, a holy and historic place of pilgrimage.

Good to know:

Running until January 2027, St William of York: Life and Legacy is on display in the cathedral’s historic Treasury during sightseeing times. Entry is included with a sightseeing ticket at no extra cost.

York Minster has a living collection which includes objects that are still used in the cathedral today. If you are making a special journey to see a specific object, please do contact us so we can check whether or not it will be on display.

The Treasury, Undercroft Museum and Crypt can be accessed via stairs or a lift. Please speak to a member of our Visitor Team (in blue) if you wish to discuss your access needs.