The Archbishop’s Palace

The former Palace of the Archbishop of York stands next door to the Minster, adjoining the present official residence of the Bishop of Southwell. The Palace as we see it today dates from the 14th century and was wrecked during the Civil War. The ruined part can be admired up-close from the Palace Gardens. The surviving built part of the Palace – the Great Hall – was restored in the Edwardian era. The Hall retains its original proportions and the beams of the magnificent vaulted ceiling of the State Chamber are mostly medieval originals.

The Palace's most famous occupant is Cardinal Wolsey. It was in the State Chamber of the Great Hall that he would have held his last frantic meetings in 1530 to try and extricate himself from his failure to secure Henry VIII a divorce from Catherine of Aragon. Equally, the room’s function makes it a reasonable supposition that Charles Ӏ would have met his advisers here and, following his capture in Southwell, his arrest was formalised here. Certainly, the Palace was his first place of final imprisonment.

Visit the State Chamber

From Tuesday 5th May, the Archbishop’s Palace enters a new chapter in how its story is shared. The Palace’s first floor –  the magnificent State Chamber –  will be open to visitors exclusively through pre-booked guided tours. This change allows guests to experience this remarkable space exactly as it deserves: thoughtfully, knowledgeably, and in the company of an expert guide.

Steeped in centuries of history, the State Chamber is best discovered through stories, insight and context. A guided tour offers the richest way to understand its significance, uncover hidden details, and truly appreciate the atmosphere of one of our most extraordinary historic rooms.

Prior to 5th May, visitors can access the State Chamber without booking a tour.

Discover the secrets of the Archbishop’s Palace with a guided tour: click here.

You can also take Virtual Tour of the State Chamber: click here.

Hire this exclusive venue for your event

The State Chamber is available for private hire. From elegant wedding receptions to exhibitions, conferences, social gatherings and community events, the Palace is a truly distinctive and atmospheric venue – where history provides an unforgettable backdrop for special occasions.

Find out more about hiring the State Chamber: click here.

Hire the State Chamber for an unforgettable event: contact office@southwellminster.org.uk

Accessible venue

Situated on the first floor of the Archbishop's Palace, the State Chamber can be accessed by stairs or a platform lift.

Events open to the Public at the Archbishop’s Palace