A family-friendly programme of activities at York Minster, including a cinematic experience, living history, and garden activities for the October half term.
York Minster is running its October Half Term programme from 24 October to 1 November, with the whole thing built around the medieval pilgrims who once travelled from across England and beyond to the Minster, seeking hope and healing at the shrine of St William of York. It's a good way to spend a few days of the break if you're in the city.
Between 26 and 31 October, the Living History 'Medieval Pilgrims' brings that world back to life. You'll meet pilgrims who share tales of their journeys, learn what life on the road was like in the Middle Ages, and make your own wax votive, just as shrine visitors did centuries ago. Running throughout the whole period is the St William Cinematic Experience, which uses digital technology to bring the lost shrine of St William back to life. If you're visiting with younger ones, there are craft activities, the Undercroft Museum, Little Explorer Backpacks, and family trails that trace 1,400 years of history. On 26 and 27 October, the Minster Gardeners lead autumn activities, including making bug hotels.
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Most of the activities are included with a York Minster sightseeing ticket, and you don't need to pre-book. The Minster is open Monday to Saturday 9.30am to 5pm, with last admission at 4pm, and Sunday 12.45pm to 3.30pm, last admission 2.30pm. It's at Deangate, York YO1 7HH.
