Since 1686, the goings on at 17 Blossom Street have been York’s best kept secret. A secret that remained hidden for hundreds of years.

To the outside world, this house was York’s first school for girls. To those in the know, it was hiding an illegal convent.

The English Reformation saw Catholicism made illegal and punishable by death, but this group of determined women built a Convent, including an entire Chapel, under the watchful eyes of all of their suspicious neighbours. Today, more than 300 years later, it is the oldest active Convent in England.

Discover this remarkable story of survival through stunning artefacts and engaging interactives in our fascinating exhibition and chapel.

With special activities for our younger visitors, talks, a café and garden, the Bar Convent is a unique experience for all to enjoy.