York Minster will reopen for worship next month – with restrictions in place

York Minster today revealed its reopening plans.

It will reopen for worship and private prayer on Sunday 14 March, holding the first public services since the latest lockdown began. 

Daily services and private prayer will resume on Monday 15 March.
 
Canon Victoria Johnson, the cathedral’s Precentor said: “There is an immense sense of anticipation and joy at the prospect of welcoming people to York Minster once more for prayer and reflection and to experience the presence of God in this special place. 

“We will have to operate with restrictions for some considerable period of time so our services will continue to be available via livestream and digital formats for those unable to join us in person.”
 
In line with government and Church of England guidance, a number of precautions will be in place to help keep visitors and staff safe.  

These include

• limiting the number of people allowed inside
• reduced seating
• a one-way system
• hand sanitiser points
• additional cleaning measures
• and staff and clergy wearing face masks and visors to welcome visitors.

Worshippers attending public services will also be asked to leave their name and contact details to assist with the NHS Test and Trace programme, in line with government guidance.
 
In this initial phase of re-opening, only 75 places will be available for the main Sunday services. Admission will be via online booked ticket only. 

Admission for the main Sunday services will be by pre-booked online tickets only. Booking will open on the York Minster website on Monday 8 March.