York Minster Refectory Wedding Venue – Unofficial Guide
As a York Wedding Photographer I have plenty of experience attending weddings in York, so I thought I would write this handy guide to give you an idea of what to expect, and things to consider about booking your wedding at York Minster Refectory.
York Minster Refectory is one of York’s newest “old” venues having undergone a transformation to turn the former school into a restaurant and small wedding venue which opened in 2023.
Background of York Minster Refectory
Built in 1833, York Minster Refectory was originally York Minster School and has recently undergone renovations to become an excellent restaurant and wedding venue with an amazing view of the Minster.
Run by the Star Inn The City head chef, the food and service is excellent.
They have recently acquired a wedding licence so you can now have your ceremony and wedding reception at this beautiful York city centre venue.
Location of York Minster Refectory
Almost as central as you can get in York – it is situated at the base of the Minster.
Size and facilities for York Minster refectory weddings
The York Minster view private dining room can seat up to 40 guests and the King’s Room can accommodate up to 50 guests. There is a connected lounge area which works perfectly as a drinks and canapes location before your guests are invited in to the dining room.
In warmer months, drinks outside are wonderful because the view of the Minster is stunning. There are tables and seating outside with a lawned area (which would be perfect for kids to run about and use up some energy).
The private rooms are on the first floor – there is a lift available to take you up to the first floor.
Ceremony at York Minster Refectory
This wedding venue is too new for me to have any photos of an actual ceremony here! I have photographed a couple of weddings where they have had their reception here, but not yet a ceremony.
I do have a ceremony booked here in September 2025 – so if you are reading this after that date, get in touch and remind me to update this post (or ask to see a full gallery)!
Wedding Photography at York Minster Refectory
I don’t think there is a venue that can compare in terms of views of the Minster from the drinks reception area!
You can have group photos on the lawn with the Minster as a back drop without your guests having to travel away from the venue at all.
After group photos on the lawn, I would take the couple for a little wander around the bottom of the minster to get a few different shots.
Where to go next after a York Minster Refectory wedding
If you are having a small ceremony but want to invite more than 50 guests to your evening reception, there are plenty of options a short stroll away in York. You could have an intimate ceremony and wedding breakfast at the Refectory, and then move on to continue the evening elsewhere.
The Merchant Adventurers’ Hall, Impossible York, and The Guildhall York are a few venues which spring to mind.
Other venues in York to consider
I have been a York wedding photographer for many years and have photographed hundreds of weddings! I am totally unaffiliated with any wedding venue, so if you want some insight into different wedding venues in York, feel free to get in touch to ask! (You can Whatsapp me on 07763 682 138 if you have a quick question!)
Here is a blog post of all the wedding venues in York suitable for small weddings, and for larger weddings a bit out of town, check out this post about the wedding barns within 30 minutes of York.
