The Guildhall and Coney Street

For over 800 years the Guildhall site on Coney Street has been the central hub of York’s civic story. Throughout that time it has had many important roles, including as a law court, council offices, banqueting hall, and mayoral residence.

Use the items on the right to learn more about this fascinating building and the stories it has witnessed.

This touchscreen was created as part of the StreetLife York initiative.

  • A stone staircase leads upwards from a dark brick-lined tunnel.

    Common Hall Lane

    Explore the medieval tunnel underneath the Guildhall that connects Coney Street to the River Ouse.

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  • A close-up of an ornate sword with gold elements.

    Sigismund's Sword

    Discover how an exquisite 15th century sword from Europe came into possession of the City of York

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  • The facade of the stone-built Guildhall in York, with many ornate windows.

    Crime and punishment

    The Guildhall had a vital role in the city as a court of justice from the medieval period to the nineteenth century.

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  • The Mansion House in York has a classical facade and is painted in red and white.

    Mayors and the Mansion House

    The Mansion House, in front of the Guildhall, was built in the 1730s for the Lord Mayors of York.

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  • An illustration detail from the London Illustrated News showing the Guildhall full of diners and elaborate tables.

    Banquets and feasts

    Food, drink, and hospitality have long been a central part of the Guildhall story!

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  • A black and white photo showing York's Guildhall ablaze during the 1942 Blitz.

    The Blitz 1942: destruction and rebuilding

    On a shocking night in 1942, the Guildhall came close to total destruction.

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For over 800 years the Guildhall site on Coney Street has been the central hub of York’s civic story. Throughout that time it has had many important roles, including as a law court, council offices, banqueting hall, and mayoral residence.

Use the items on the right to learn more about this fascinating building and the stories it has witnessed.

This touchscreen was created as part of the StreetLife York initiative.