13/06/2026
A Book Launch That Led Me Down a York History Rabbit Hole
Last week, I attended the launch of York in Lockdown by Nikki Bowling Photography at Bedern Hall.
The book is a fascinating record of York during a unique moment in its history. Nikki's photographs capture the city's streets when they were unusually quiet, and each image is paired with the history of the location on the facing page. It's a wonderful combination of photography and local history.
But the venue itself got me thinking.
Many visitors know York Minster, the Shambles and the city walls, yet some of York's most fascinating buildings are its historic halls.
🏛️ Bedern Hall
The venue for the book launch, Bedern Hall dates back to the 14th century and was once the dining hall of the Vicars Choral of York Minster. Hidden away from the main tourist routes, it's one of York's lesser-known treasures and well worth seeking out.
🏛️ Merchant Adventurers' Hall
Built in the 1350s, this remarkable hall was home to York's merchant traders. Their success helped make York one of the most important cities in medieval England. Today, it remains one of the finest medieval guild halls in the country.
🏛️Merchant Taylors' Hall
For more than 600 years, Merchant Taylors' Hall has been at the heart of one of York's ancient guilds. It's a beautiful building with a rich history and is still used for events today.
🏛️ Barley Hall
Tucked away near Stonegate, Barley Hall is a beautifully restored medieval townhouse. Once home to the Mayor of York and later a wealthy merchant, it offers a fascinating glimpse into life in medieval York.
Of course, York is also home to many other historic buildings, from Jacobs Well near Micklegate to its bars, churches and merchant houses. Around almost every corner, there's another story waiting to be discovered.
The evening reminded me that while York's famous landmarks deserve their reputation, some of the city's most interesting places are the ones many people walk past without noticing.
Which of York's historic halls have you visited? And have you discovered Bedern Hall yet?
📸 Credit: Nikki Bowling Photography – York in Lockdown