Barley Hall is a stunning medieval townhouse, once home to a Lord Mayor of York.

Until the 1980s the house was hidden under the relatively modern façade of an office block. Only when the building was going to be destroyed was the amazing medieval building discovered and its history revealed. Now lovingly restored to its original splendour, Barley Hall boasts stunning high ceilings, exposed timber frames, and fascinating exhibitions.

Beasts at Barley Hall tells the stories of animals in medieval life, from domestic pets (and pests) and livestock to lions, bears and even dragons, using artefacts found in and around the city of York. Hands-on activities for children, new accessible interpretation boards, audio stories and much more make Beasts at Barley Hall a must-see if you are in York this summer!

York Pass must be valid on the day of your visit.