The Company of Merchant Taylors in the City of York

About us

Built in 1415, the Merchant Taylors’ Hall is one of York’s buildings of historical importance.  Situated within the walls of the city, this ‘hidden gem’ is a unique venue for corporate events, meetings, weddings, private parties and dinners – seating for up to 120 guests.

Monthly Open Days offer residents and visitors to the city free access to the building and guided tours by Company Members.

The Merchant Taylors in the City of York maintain links with a number of other guilds and organisations - please click on any image below for more information.

Guilds (or "Mysteries") were probably in existence before the Norman Conquest and were to be found, not only in London, but in other parts of the country and on the continent. The term "mystery" is still used and comes from the Latin "misterium", meaning "professional skill".

Most guilds are the direct descendants of the medieval trade guilds which exercised considerable influence from the 13th century, defining and controlling trade and a city's resultant wealth and power. Some maintain very close links with their trades and continue to be influential bodies, acting as custodians of fine Livery Halls and their historical contents and playing a substantial educational and charitable role.