Bedern Hall York - Conference Venue in York,North Yorkshire,Yorkshire,United Kingdom

The history of Bedern Hall is closely tied to that of York Minster. It was originally part of the College of the Vicars Choral which occupied the area between Goodramgate, St Andrewgate and Aldwark. The hall was the refectory (or dining hall) for the college from the 1390s until the middle of the 17th century when it passed into private hands. The hall, chapel and gatehouse are all that remain of the college.

The name Bedern is first mentioned about 1270AD in documents relating to the college, although the word is Anglo Saxon meaning 'house of prayer'. A similar name was given to colleges in Ripon and Beverley, North Yorkshire, England.

The building as it now stands represents a fine example of a rectangular medieval hall. During excavations a bay window was revealed with a fan-vaulted roof. It is a very early example of such vaulting and has a design similar to those found in the eastern arm of the Minster which was begun in 1361. Archaeologists say that it is possible that they are the work of the same mason - either William Hoton or Robert de Patryngton.

The hall now has a floor of York stone, but it was originally covered with green glazed tiles, two of which were found during excavations.

Today the hall is used as a guildhall by three livery companies; the Gild of Freemen of the City of York, The Company of Cordwainers and the York Guild of Building.

Situated in the heart of York, close to the Minster and all city centre facilities, this 14th century hall has been equipped to provide modern facilities for meetings, seminars and smaller conferences.

We can offer our clients a stimulating working environment, flexible 'in-house' catering arrangements, competitive rates for a venue of this calibre & personal attention. An ideal venue for smaller groups.