Business Details
24 Years
experience
Explore York's Cultural Heritage
Established in 2002, York Museums Trust operates as an independent charitable trust managing York's cultural heritage on behalf of the City of York Council. Our organization oversees four key heritage sites: York Art Gallery, York Castle Museum, Yorkshire Museum and Gardens, and York St Mary's. With over two decades of experience in cultural stewardship, we combine historical preservation with modern educational initiatives. Our team of curators, educators, and heritage specialists work to make York's rich history accessible to all through exhibitions, school programs, and community engagement.We maintain designated collections of national importance across social history, archaeology, and fine art. Through strategic partnerships and public programs, we aim to inspire new generations while preserving York's cultural legacy. Our operations are supported by a dedicated volunteer network and corporate partners. We adhere to strict conservation standards while embracing digital innovation through online collections access. As a registered charity (1092466), we prioritize transparency and public benefit in all our activities.
Services
York Art Gallery
York Castle Museum
Yorkshire Museum
York St Mary's
Museum Gardens
Details
- Year established: 2002
Highlights and features
- We manage nationally significant collections designated by the Museums, Libraries and Archives Council
- Our team includes specialist curators with expertise in conservation and heritage interpretation
- We offer award-winning educational programs for schools and community groups
- We maintain four historic venues across York's cultural quarter
- We combine traditional stewardship with innovative digital access to collections
Associations and certifications
- Museums, Libraries and Archives Council (Designated Collections)
What people say
Engaging exhibits
Excellent educational programs
Beautiful gardens
Well-preserved history
Family-friendly
Services
York Art Gallery
York Art Gallery houses an extensive collection of fine art including paintings, ceramics, and contemporary works. The gallery offers special exhibitions, educational programs, and conservation workshops. Visitors can explore both permanent collections and temporary displays featuring local and international artists.
York Castle Museum
This historic museum showcases York's social history through immersive exhibits and period reconstructions. The museum features collections spanning three centuries, including the famous 'Castle Howard' collection and interactive displays for family visitors.
Yorkshire Museum
Dedicated to archaeology and natural history, this museum displays Roman artifacts, medieval treasures, and geological specimens. The museum hosts regular family activities and special exhibitions focusing on Yorkshire's heritage.
Museum Gardens
These award-winning gardens combine historic features with diverse plant collections. The space includes Roman walls, medieval ruins, and themed garden areas providing a peaceful green space in York's city center.
York St Mary's
This restored medieval church serves as a contemporary exhibition space and event venue. The venue hosts changing art exhibitions, cultural events, and provides a unique setting for weddings and conferences.
People
Kathryn Blacker
Chief Executive
With extensive experience in cultural leadership, Kathryn oversees the Trust's strategic direction. She has worked in heritage management for over 20 years, previously holding senior roles at national arts organizations.
Andrew Woods
Head of Collections and Research
Andrew leads the Trust's curatorial team with expertise in museum collections management. He has specialist knowledge of York's archaeological heritage and has published widely on local history topics.
Dawn Clements
Head of Development
Dawn manages fundraising and partnerships for the Trust. She has a proven track record in securing cultural funding and developing successful corporate partnerships for heritage institutions.
Dr Beatrice Bertram
Senior Curator (York Art Gallery)
Dr Bertram specializes in fine art curation with particular expertise in British paintings. She has curated numerous exhibitions and led the gallery's successful art acquisition program.
Michael Turnpenny
Head of Museum Development Yorkshire
Michael oversees museum development projects across Yorkshire. With a background in heritage architecture, he manages major capital projects and historic building conservation initiatives.
Questions
What museums are included in York Museums Trust?
The Trust manages York Art Gallery, York Castle Museum, Yorkshire Museum and Gardens, and York St Mary's.
Are there educational programs for schools?
Yes, we offer tailored school visits and educational resources across all our venues for various age groups.
How can I support the Trust?
You can become a patron, make donations, join as a supporter, or volunteer for various roles across our sites.
Can I access the collections online?
Yes, our entire collection is available online with high-resolution images and detailed descriptions through our website.
Are there event spaces available for hire?
York St Mary's and selected museum areas can be hired for weddings, conferences, and cultural events.
How are acquisitions decided for the collections?
Acquisitions follow our Collections Development Policy, focusing on items that enhance our designated collections and local heritage.
Reviews (4)
Cath Simpkins
Mar 09, 2021
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Great green space in the centre of the city. Includes in its grounds the Hospitium, the Yorkshire Museum, wildlife and floral displays, river views, the fascinating observatory, ruins and sculptures outside the back of the art gallery. Gets busy on a lovely day. Picnics abound. Squirrels tame (or cheeky!) enough to take food from your hands.
Andy Fawcett
Jan 18, 2020
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Do not buy their YMT card at the museum desk! After recently moving house I did not receive a letter explaining a renewal of subscription 12 months after I bought 2 x 20 cards for my wife and I. As I no longer live in York, I effectively paid 80 for one trip to the museum. When I initially queried this, I was told a refund would be arranged, only to be told by the supervisor that this would not be happening.
Arthur Murden
Dec 20, 2019
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Me and my wife have visited York a number of times but only visited the museum 1 time
really need to call back . I love all the history York as and all the beautiful old buildings
really need to call back . I love all the history York as and all the beautiful old buildings
Kieran Smith
Sep 13, 2019
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The museum is really good but rather short. Definitely worth seeing but it could afford to be larger for the price charged
