Take a look behind the scenes to see restoration work at York's iconic Minster
Visitors to York Minster are to be given a rare glimpse of the work that goes on behind the scenes to maintain the building and its beautiful windows. The Bedern Chapel, which was originally the medieval chapel of the Vicars Choral, has been converted into a workshop for glaziers where visitors will be able to watch the important conservation work. York has more medieval stained glass than any other city in the UK and with 128 medieval windows, the Minster has more glass than any other single British building. The Great East Window, which was created in the early years of the 15th century, is the largest single expanse of medieval stained glass in the world and hour-long tours will take place every Wednesday and Friday. The work on the Great East Window is part of the fiveyear York Minster Revealed project which is supported by a �10 million Heritage Lottery Fund grant. And the Minster's stoneyard is also due to open to the public who will be able to watch the stonemasons, carvers and carpenters work to restore stonework, particularly from the East Front. Visitors who book in advance will have the chance to see the progress of the stones through the yard or take a trip up the East Front scaffolding to take a peek behind the scenes. Howard Mosley, York Minster's Visitor Operations Coordinator, said: 'This is a fantastic opportunity for members of the public to see the work of the York Glaziers Trust up close and to witness the amazing skills involved in glass conservation. The Bedern Tours really open up the Minster and allow the public to witness the incredible work going on here behind the scenes.'
To book, or for more information, contact York Minster visitors department on 01904 557216.
