A Brief History

Barley Hall is a picturesque medieval townhouse tucked away down one of the oldest streets in York. Once home to the Priors of Nostell and a Lord Mayor of York, Barley Hall has now been lovingly restored to its original splendour with stunning high ceilings, beautiful exposed timber frames, and possibly the only horn window in England. Visitors to Barley Hall can make themselves at home, sit on the chairs and experience what it would have been like to live in medieval England.

Hidden Gems and Interesting Facts

Until the 1980s the building was hidden under the relatively modern facade, only when it was going to be destroyed was the amazing medieval structure discovered and its rich history uncovered.

What We Offer Our Visitors

Barley Hall boasts stunning high ceilings, beautiful exposed timber frames and a magnificent Great Hall. Learn about the hall’s former residents which included the Priors of Nostell and even a former Mayor of York. Discover how residents would have lived during the medieval period.

Accessibility and Disabled Facilities

Due to the historic nature of the building, Barley Hall has steps and raised thresholds throughout the building. There is no lift but we have a temporary ramp into the Great Hall and the Steward’s Room. We have public toilets but neither are accessible toilets.

All staff have disability awareness and Autism Awareness training whilst some staff have BSL training.

Glass doors have contrast markings. We have interpretation available in level 1 Braille translation and in large print. Visual stories are available to download on our website and we have paper copies at our front desk.