What’s to see at Treasurer’s House, York? Over the summer holidays we visited Treasurer’s House in York. It’s an unusual building that was gifted to the National Trust by Frank Green, an eccentric man who ‘created his version of what an historic house should be’, mixing different decorating styles and periods to make this wonderful and truly eclectic house.
To start with, it’s in a stunning location in the shadow of York Minster with incredible views from the front of the building.
The Gardens at Treasurer’s House, York
The gardens are beautiful and a real oasis in the very centre of York. The gardens themselves are free to enter and open to the public from 11am till 4.30pm. There are lovely benches around it and places to stop and relax.
On the day we visited there were lawn games of noughts and crosses:
And giant Jenga:
As well as this lovely whimsical floating picture game (ideal alternative to a selfie!):
Inside the House
Inside the house there is so much to see and take in. There is a treasure trail running at the moment – the kids can pick up a leaflet on the reception desk that gives clues to the things they need to find. At the moment these are Lego figures. They need to keep an eye out throughout the house for the Lego figures and it keeps them entertained.
There are tours that take you into different parts of the house that you pay separately for. There is a tour of the cellars that were made famous in the 1950’s when workmen report seeing Roman Centurions passing through. A story that I loved as a child! The other tour takes you high into the attics to see the servants quarters as well as an unusual look over the rooftops of York. I am hoping to return and do both tours at some point soon.
Both tours are an additional £4 per adult and £3.50 per child. Hard hats need to be worn and it isn’t suitable for under 5’s. They do advise you to call ahead to check that the tours are on.
In every room there is a host that is more than happy to tell you lots of interesting bits and pieces about the house. They all clearly love their roles and this came across very strongly as we spoke to them. They were all really keen to engage the children too.
One of the rooms we visited had a huge sign on the wall mentioning all the country houses in England that were now no more for various reasons. On a personal note, I was pleased (and a bit sad) to see Scruton Hall mentioned. It was demolished in the 50’s, but later the land was bought by some relatives of mine and I spent many holidays roaming over the plot where the house had stood looking for lost treasure! My aunt found a broken plate buried by the place where the steps of the hall would have been and always wondered if a terrified maid had broken it and had hidden it out of sight to hide her guilt!
How much is it to go in Treasurer’s House?
There is also a gift shop and cafe to enjoy at the end of your visit. Entry to Treasurer’s House costs £21.75 for a family ticket or is free if you are a member of the National Trust. A family annual membership is currently £126 for the year for two adults (aged 18+) living at the same address and up to 10 of their children or grandchildren (17 or under). Under 5s go free. A ‘one adult’ family membership (aged 18+) and up to 10 of their children or grandchildren (17 or under) costs just £78 for the year. This allows free entry into hundreds of National Trust properties like Fountain’s Abbey or Beningbrough Hall.
If you are visiting from outside the area and on a budget, have a look at this great review of the Youth Hostel in York.
Please do also have a look at my post of other family days out in Yorkshire.
We were invited to visit and review Treasurer’s House in York. As always, all opinions expressed are my own.
