As you walk through the heart of York city centre, you may spot the stunning Georgian-style building called York Mansion House. This historic building has been the official residence of the Lord Mayor of York since 1732, and remains the home of the Mayor of York to this day.
The Mansion House is located in St Helen’s Square, where York’s Coney Street and Lendal intersect, making it a central hub of city society and civic life for almost 300 years. The building’s elegant architecture and rich history make it a popular place to visit whilst in York.
If you’re interested in discovering more about the role of the Lord Mayor of York, or if you simply want to admire the Mansion House’s beautiful interiors and exteriors you should definitely add this to your list of things to do in York. From its grand entrance hall to its opulent state room, the Mansion House is a testament to the city’s rich heritage and the enduring legacy of its most prominent figures.
History of York Mansion House
York Mansion House is a historic building located in York, England, that has been the official residence of the Lord Mayor of York since 1732. It is an impressive example of 18th-century architecture and is considered one of the finest Georgian buildings in the city. The Mansion House was constructed in the mid-1720s, and the foundation stone was laid in 1725. The building was completed seven years later in 1732.
The Mansion House’s notion of having a residence where the Lord Mayor could entertain guests put it ahead of London. While Yorkshire’s capital built its Mansion House in the mid-1720s, England’s capital only followed suit in 1752.
The Mansion House has been restored several times over the years, most recently in 1998 by the York Civic Trust. Today, it is open to the public and is a popular attraction for visitors to York. The Mansion House offers visitors a glimpse into the city’s history and the role of the Lord Mayor in York’s civic life.
Architectural Significance
No one knows who designed the Mansion House but some believe that the front was designed by William Etty. The Mansion House has a rich history, and its Georgian past is evident in its architecture and design.
The exterior of the Mansion House boasts a symmetrical facade, with a central entrance and a pediment supported by four Corinthian columns. The facade is adorned with ornate carvings and sculptures, including the city’s coat of arms. The building is constructed of brick and features a slate roof.
Inside, the Mansion House features some of the most beautiful and well-preserved Georgian interiors in the country. Visitors can explore the recreated Georgian-style bedrooms and dining rooms, which are furnished with period furniture and decor. The house also showcases collections of silverware and ceramics.
The Mansion House is a testament to the wealth and opulence of York’s Georgian past. It was built during a time when York was a thriving center of trade and commerce, and its architecture reflects the city’s prosperity.
Role of the Lord Mayor
As the official residence of the Lord Mayor of York, the Mansion House plays an important role in the city’s civic life. The Lord Mayor is the ceremonial head of the city and represents the city at official events and functions. They are elected annually by the City Council and serve as the civic leader of the city.
The Lord Mayor’s role is to promote the city and its interests both locally and nationally. They also act as an ambassador for the city and its people, welcoming visitors and dignitaries to the city. Their duties include presiding over council meetings, attending civic functions, and promoting the city’s cultural and economic interests.
Tours and York Pass
If you’re planning to visit York Mansion House, you may want to consider purchasing a York Pass. With a York Pass, you can gain free entry to the Mansion House, as well as to many other attractions in the city. The York Pass is a great way to save money and time, as you won’t need to queue up to purchase tickets at each attraction.
If you decide to visit York Mansion House without a York Pass, you can purchase tickets at the admission desk upon arrival. General admission for adults is £6.50, while concessions (over 65s and students aged 16+ in full-time education) pay £5.00. Children aged 5 and over pay £3.50, while children under 5 enter for free. Families (2 adults and up to 3 children) can purchase discounted entry for £17.00.
Guided tours of York Mansion House are available for an additional fee. These tours provide a fascinating insight into the history and architecture of the building, as well as the role of the Lord Mayor in York’s civic life. The Mansion House also hosts special events throughout the year, such as concerts, exhibitions, and workshops.
Artifacts and Exhibits
When you visit the York Mansion House, you will find an impressive collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the city’s rich history. One of the highlights is the Civic Silver, which includes a variety of silverware used for official ceremonies and events. The collection dates back to the 17th century and features pieces from some of the most skilled craftsmen of the time.
Another must-see exhibit is the Georgian Kitchen, which has been restored to its former glory. The kitchen was once the heart of the mansion and served as a bustling hub of activity. Today, you can step back in time and see how food was prepared and served during the Georgian era.
York Mansion House also has a range of other artifacts on display. These include paintings, sculptures, and furniture pieces that offer a glimpse into the lives of the people who lived in the mansion. You can also explore the various rooms and chambers, each of which has its own unique story to tell.
Location and Accessibility
If you are driving to York, there are several car parks nearby, including the Esplanade car park and Lendal car park. Both car parks are within a 5-10 minute walk from the house. However, the city centre can get busy, so it is advisable to plan your journey and allow extra time for parking.
If you prefer to use public transport, York Mansion House is conveniently located near several bus stops. The nearest bus stops are on Stonebow and Davygate, both of which are less than a 5-minute walk away.
For visitors with mobility issues, the pavements around the house are paved and cobbled, but perfectly stable. The main visitor entrance is accessed via six steps up to the main door with handrails on both sides. The house is also wheelchair accessible, with a lift available to take visitors to the upper floors.
