Barley Hall is a restored medieval townhouse with high ceilings, Tudor décor and a fascinating history. It houses a tourist attraction that evokes the atmosphere of medieval York with relics from the era. See original pottery, tiles and works of art and learn about the aristocrats who inhabited this mansion, including the Mayor of York.
The extraordinary structure remained hidden behind a derelict tower of offices until the 1980s. Walk through the rooms of the historic building and note the intriguing décor that places the building in time. It has been restored to appear as it did in the late 1400s, when a goldsmith named William Snawsell lived there. Take a seat on some of the furniture and imagine yourself a lord of the manor.
Admire the timber frames and columns that adorn the white walls. Stroll through the spacious Great Hall and note the distinctive black-and-white tiles on the floor. The tables in the hall are decorated with items from the medieval period, such as ceramics and candelabras. See an exhibit displaying medieval dress and handle the surprisingly heavy cloth.
Barley Hall features exhibitions that highlight the former residents of the townhouse and the societal issues of the time period. Catch a show by the museum’s staff, who use costumes and props to tell the gruesome stories of plagues and poverty with some color and dark humor.
There is an admission fee for entry to the museum. Purchase a combination ticket to enjoy discounted admission to Barley Hall and a selection of other historical museums in York. Children and families can enter at a discounted rate. The museum is open year-round apart from during the Christmas season.
Barley Hall is located to the north-east of the River Ouse in the center of York. It is a short walk from many of the city’s main attractions, including the Yorkshire Museum, York Minster and St. Mary’s Abbey. Local buses stop at the Theatre Royal nearby.
