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Visiting the Tower
Climbing the 275 steps to the top of the central tower is an exhilarating experience. You will pass the Minster's medieval pinnacles and gargoyles and see over its rooftops. At the top you will have the best view of the city's ancient streets.
From the highest point in the city you can see far over the surrounding countryside, from the White Horse at Kilburn to the Yorkshire Wolds
The brave hearted who have managed to climb the tower can also buy an attractive badge to mark their achievement from the Group Visits desk in the Minster.
The tower weighs 16,000 tonnes - about the same as 40 jumbo jets!
Climbing the tower is hard work as well as rewarding - those who are not confident of their fitness or who are suffering from any debilitating medical condition should not attempt the climb.
Minster staff may refuse access if they are not satisfied that you are able to make the climb in safety, and their decision is final.
Open
Mon - Sat from 09.30am (Sunday from 12.30pm) - last trip 5.00pm - later at peak times; Nov - March: from 10.00am, last trip 30 mins before dusk
Closed: 24 and 25 December, Good Friday, Easter Sunday and in extreme weather. Opening times are subject to major church services.
For health and safety reasons, no children under 8 are allowed to climb the Tower. Children 16 and under must be accompanied. A minimum of one adult per 10 children - plus one extra is required.
Tower Admission Prices
See the Entrance Prices page for prices.
For more information, please contact the Visitors' Department.
Telephone: 01904 557216
Fax: 01904 557218
Email: visitors@yorkminster.org
Visiting the Tower with groups of children
(Please see the School Visits Pages for further information)
Any group with over 10 children (aged 16 and under) must be accompanied by a minimum of 3 adults.
One adult is to lead both the climb and descent, one is to be in the middle of the party and one is to bring up the rear. It is the group leaders responsibility to ensure no children ascend / descend the Tower ahead of the lead adult.
Groups of 10 or less children may climb the Tower with two adults; but if anyone needs to be escorted down the Tower the whole group must descend.
If in doubt please visit beforehand. Climbing the Tower does not form part of a visit conducted by our staff. It is always at the choice and risk of the individual group.