York Unlocked Event: Historic Buildings Tour

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Questions and Answers

What is the York Unlocked event primarily about?

A historical buildings open house (correct)

A city-wide food fair

A large art exhibition

A cultural music festival

Which historical building did Charles I attempt to establish as his court?

York Explore

Monk Bar

York Minster

King’s Manor (correct)

Which of the following is NOT mentioned as a feature of Monk Bar?

Faces south towards England (correct)

Displays figures hurling rocks

Houses a Richard III museum

Has four storeys

What historical period is NOT mentioned in relation to York's significance?

Renaissance Signup and view all the answers

What unique element is associated with York Explore?

It is an arts and crafts reference area Signup and view all the answers

What did the author of the article do at King’s Manor during the 1970s?

Rehearsed for plays Signup and view all the answers

How long are the medieval city walls in Central York?

Approximately 2 miles Signup and view all the answers

What function did Monk Bar serve historically?

An intimidating gateway in the city walls Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of a garderobe in medieval architecture?

To serve as a lavatory Signup and view all the answers

What architectural style does Herbert House primarily resemble?

Tudor Signup and view all the answers

Whom did Sir Thomas Herbert serve as a friend and consoler during his reign?

Charles I Signup and view all the answers

What modification was made to the facade of Herbert House during Georgian times?

Timber was hidden to appear modern Signup and view all the answers

What is the notable architectural feature of Garforth House?

A cantilevered staircase Signup and view all the answers

Which architect is associated with Garforth House?

John Carr Signup and view all the answers

What was the original function of the De Grey Rooms when it was built?

Officers' mess and party venue Signup and view all the answers

What event occurred at the De Grey Rooms in the 1970s?

Punk gigs Signup and view all the answers

What year was the Masonic Hall at Duncombe Place opened?

1862 Signup and view all the answers

What type of room is the Lodge Room at Duncombe Place Hall formerly known as?

The Temple Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the heavy oil paintings in the Masonic Hall?

They represent past masons Signup and view all the answers

What unique attribute does the cantilevered staircase in Garforth House have?

It is a rare wooden staircase Signup and view all the answers

What feature is NOT associated with the De Grey Rooms?

An outdoor garden Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

York Unlocked Event: Notable Buildings

York Unlocked, a weekend event (October 15th and 16th), opens 60 historic buildings for free public access. Volunteer stewards provide guidance.
York's rich history, including its time as capital of Roman Britain and a significant city between the 10th and 17th centuries, is highlighted by the event.

Monk Bar

Monk Bar, a 14th-century gateway in the York city walls, is one of the event's highlights.
Its four stories, featuring figures hurling rocks, faced Scotland, a major threat at the time.
Richard III, who had ties to York, added the top floor. It previously housed a Richard III museum; now, the York Archaeological Trust utilizes the space.
The bar includes a medieval lavatory ("garderobe"), theorized to protect clothing from insects via ammonia from urine.

Herbert House

Herbert House, initially appearing medieval, is a Tudor and Stuart-era building.
It was home to Sir Thomas Herbert, an associate of Charles I. Charles I is believed to have dined there.
The building's facade was altered in the Georgian era to appear more modern and then reverted to expose its original timber.
Currently houses York Gin; previously was a Clarks shoe shop.

Garforth House

Garforth House (completed 1757), a grand Georgian house on Micklegate, was probably designed by John Carr, a prominent Georgian architect in York.
It served as a girls' school (1918-1968) before becoming the home of John and Lindsay Jacques.
Features a rare cantilevered wooden staircase, a recessed Venetian window, ornate plasterwork, and a haunting attic and basement.

De Grey Rooms

The De Grey Rooms (built 1842), originally an officers' mess for the Yorkshire Hussars, exemplifies a period of prosperity in York.
Designed by George Townsend Andrews, who also worked on York's second railway station, the building's basement kitchen displays railway architecture features.
Its grand ballroom hosted various events, from balls and concerts to punk gigs (1970s). Currently, the York Conservation Trust seeks a tenant.

Masonic Hall

The Masonic Hall (opened 1862) offers a glimpse into Masonic traditions. Located near York Minster.
The hall's features include oil portraits of past masons and a richly decorated "Temple" (meeting room) with mahogany and red-velvet furniture, mainly reserved for lodge members. The hall is open for visitors to explore.

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Description

Explore York's rich history through the York Unlocked event, featuring access to 60 historic buildings. Highlights include the impressive Monk Bar and the Tudor-era Herbert House, each showcasing significant architectural and cultural heritage. Join volunteer stewards as they guide you through this fascinating journey into the past.