A house of surprises

Nestled behind York Minster, all is not as it first appears. At one time divided into three houses, in the late 1800s wealthy Yorkshireman Frank Green created his version of a historic house to showcase his important collection. Find out about both sides of the story as he demolished parts of the house not to his liking, yet transformed a house of declining fortunes into a handsome property, with lavish interiors grand enough to entertain the future King, Edward VII. The remarkable collection includes antique furniture, ceramics, textiles and paintings from a 300-year period, collected by Frank Green as he travelled the world. Along with stories about the man and his exacting ways...including studs on the floor to mark the spot where the furniture should stand...with the threat to haunt the house if it's moved.

Book a tour (April to early November)

Instead of the more common free flow, you’re invited to explore the house on a group guided tour. This journeys through the period rooms sharing stories of how the house came to look like it does, the man who had a vision, Mr. Frank Green, and his contribution to York and uncover more about some of his rather unique pieces of art and furniture. Mr. Green wanted a house to be shared and this is why he was the first person to gift their home, complete with collection to the National Trust charity.

You're recommended to book your place to guarantee timings or drop in and see when the next available tour is. All details of what to expect, what you need to know and how to book can be found on the website.

What can I do for free?

Find Treasurer’s House next door to York Minster and this is where you’ll find the small but award winning city garden, Gold in the Yorkshire in Bloom Awards for six consecutive years. The garden is free to enter on open days and is the perfect place to take some time out in the city and see what’s in bloom. The cafe will re-open in 2022 and is free to enter on open days. Initially a new, smaller menu - but in the same historic venue.

Looking ahead to Christmas (mid November - December)

Around the festive period, the rooms are decorated with different themes and styles. You're welcome to wander at your own pace and booking isn't needed during this time. Plan a seasonal visit to the house to get you in the spirit or escape the rush of the city centre. More details for what to expect in 2022 to follow.

Stay a little longer with the National Trust

Check out one of the self-catered holiday accommodations: Minstergate and the recently developed Draper's Flat, just around the corner from Treasurer’s House. Above the city centre shop and another corner of York the former owner Frank Green saved from being demolished. Situated in a beautiful timber-framed historic building in the heart of York, the accommodation has on-the-doorstep access to all of York’s main attractions.

Whether you visit, spend, volunteer or stay, your support to the charity helps to look after special places in York and beyond. Thank you!

Please note as a town house there are limited rooms open on a single level, stairs are required to most spaces including the cafe. You can see the full access statement on the website.

See where else to explore with the National Trust in York and North Yorkshire.