Discover 700 years of history in York's Hidden Ancient Hall
Tucked away in the historic streets of York, Bedern Hall is a medieval building with a remarkable story. Over the centuries it has been home to priests, schoolboys, and even pork pie makers – each leaving their mark on this fascinating space. Today the hall welcomes visitors to step inside, explore its history, and experience one of York’s most intriguing hidden heritage sites.
Annual Pork Pie Competition
The Bedern Music Sessions
Christmas Concerts
Flower and Craft workshops
Family Friendly Storytimes
And much more!
Ask us for details or sign up for our newsletter here
Only 2 examples of this early style of wooden beam roof structure exist in the City and ours is the only one on view.
Ancient timbers
Discover the daily lives of the Vicars Choral who once lived and worked here, supporting the services of York Minster. Explore their history and see what archaeologists uncovered as they pieced together the story of life at Bedern.
Find out what a Cordwainer does, and what it means to be a Freeman of York. Bedern Hall today is an active Guildhall that hosts four of York’s Seven Guilds; the Cordwainers, Builders, Butchers, and Freeman of York.
Our Courtyard cafe and garden terrace provide tranquility in the heart of the City. Enjoy coffee and cake or a glass of wine with a savoury treat. Learn more here
Wednesday, Thursday Friday 10.30am to 3.30pm
See our What’s On page for special events
We may be closed occasionally for private events, so do check before travelling.
York city centre map — showing location of Bedern Hall and recommended car parks (PDF)
Bedern Hall is situated on Bartle Garth, in central York. Bartle Garth can be accessed from St Andrewgate or from Goodramgate.
From King’s Square, follow St Andrewgate past St Andrew’s church on your right – Bartle Garth is on the left. Follow this road as it bends to the right — Bedern Hall is on the corner.
From Goodramgate: Bedern is accessed via an archway on the corner of Deangate and Goodramgate, on the right as you leave the city centre towards Monk Bar. Immediately on the right after the archway you will see the Bedern Chapel (marked with a plaque). Continue past the chapel towards the turning on your right, where you will find Bedern Hall.
We currently recommend Foss Bank car park at and an easy 10 minute walk to the hall. This is suitable for daytime events and closes at 8pm. For evening events use the carpark on St. John’s Street, Off Lord Mayor’s Walk. (See the City of York Council website for up to date information and charges.)
Walk toward the City centre on St Maurices Road. At the crossroads turn left, passing through Monk Bar (part of the City Walls) into Goodramgate. Walk down Goodramgate to The National Trust Shop on right. Opposite you will see an archway (next to Italian restaurant). Pass through into Bedern (ignore Bedern Chapel immediately on your right) towards the houses. Bedern Hall is to your right.
