Holy Trinity

An ancient church situated right in the centre of York

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Holy Trinity Church
Photo jack spellingbacon

Up keep of Holy Trinity is in the hands of the Churches Conservation Trust while it is being preserved as a historic place of worship. Church services do still take place here though on special occasions. At other times its location has made it a favourite with the locals, who often come here to eat their lunches, read the paper, and just have a moment away from city life.

Inside Holy Trinity Church

The church has been serving as a quiet getaway for many years now. There are parts of the building which actually date back to nearly a millenium ago! However, a lot of work has been done since that time, with most of the current exterior being built in the 17th or 18th centuries. On the other hand, in recent years, there has been very little refurbishment work at all - which is in contrast to many of York's other ancient buildings. There is even a sign outside of the church, proclaiming that it has been unchanged for over 200 years.

The view of the main altar via a window in the side chapel - so the priest leading the service in the side chapel could coordinate with the main service

The same sign also mentions two of Holy Trinity's famous features - its beautiful 15th century stained glass, and the unusual 18th century box pews, which come equipped with doors! But in truth, the church's most captivating feature is just the feeling of age it manages to exude. Inside, everything is in stone or wood, all with a weathered appearance. The floor itself is cracked and uneven, leading to a recent book on York's churches describing it as undulating like a swell at sea. Another York historian, from the early 1800s, said that in no other respect is the building remarkable except for its general antique appearance. It's interesting to note that the church still looked old, even 200 years ago!

Stained Glass Windows

The Box Pews

But in fact, Holy Trinity is certainly remarkable in more ways than one - for example, in the late 19th century, the building was said to be haunted! The ghosts are reportedly a mother and child, who both died many years ago. The mother's body rests beneath Holy Trinity, but her child - who died at the time of the plague - was buried outside of the city. These two figures continued to stalk the building for years, mourning their separation. They were seen often, with onlookers surprised by the clarity of their appearance, even during bright sunlight.

However, since the apparitions haven't been seen for time, perhaps they are finally at peace. So if you're getting tired of the crowds in York's busy shopping areas, then try to track down Holy Trinity Church. You may well find one of the many exhibitions or flower festivals taking place inside. If not, then you'll certainly find it a perfect place to get away from the city, just for a while.

Holy Trinity Church is open Mon to Sat, 10am - 5pm and Sun 12noon - 5pm (winter till 4pm). Entrance is FREE. Tel: 01904 613451

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