Merchant Adventurers' Hall Gardens

Step into one of the finest surviving medieval guild halls in the world, with a peaceful walled garden families can enjoy free of charge without paying to go inside. 

Merchant Adventurers' Hall Gardens| Historic Guild Hall in York

• Opening Hours:

  • Monday to Friday: 10am - 4pm

  • Saturday: Closed

  • Sunday: 10am - 4pm

• Location: The Hall, Fossgate, York, YO1 9XD

• Suitable for: All ages - the exterior and walled garden are free to explore.

• Booking: No advance booking required

• Cost: The exterior and walled garden are free to visit

• Website: Merchant Adventurers' Hall

• Contact: 01904 654818 | enquiries@merchantshallyork.org

Highlights

• A peaceful walled garden, free to enjoy even without a ticket to the Hall

• The atmospheric Undercroft, used as a hospital and almshouse for over 500 years

• Two outstanding silver collections and historic artwork on display inside

• The Merchants' Coffee House, a lovely spot to pause for a drink

Home to the Company of Merchant Adventurers since 1357, this timber-framed Hall has stood at the heart of York for more than 660 years. While entry to the Great Hall, Undercroft and Chapel comes with an admission charge, the building's exterior and the peaceful walled garden surrounding it are free for anyone to enjoy, making it an easy stop on a family walk through the city.

For those who do go inside, there's plenty to discover: soaring oak roofs, historic artwork, and one of the oldest pieces of furniture in the city, a 13th century chest. Pushchairs and mobility aids are welcome throughout, and a platform lift gives access to the first floor.

Whether you simply pause in the garden for a breather or make a full visit of it, the Hall sits within easy walking distance of York city centre.

Good to Know

• There's no parking at the Hall, but Coppergate Centre, QPark and Castle Car Park are all close by

• Under a 20 minute walk from York railway station

• Wheelchair accessible via the Fossgate entrance, with a platform lift inside

• One visit gives 12 months' free return admission to the Hall

Photo credit: https://merchantshallyork.org