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BOOK NOW FOR THE GUEST HOUSE

Discover the oldest living convent in the UK...

A heritage house with a fascinating history...

Explore our story of secrecy, spies & survival...

History & hospitality combine in our guest house...

Gather for lunch, meetings & group visits...

YORK

Established in 1686, at a time when it was illegal to be Catholic, a group of religious sisters, now known as the Congregation of Jesus, opened this secret convent. Today, as the oldest living convent in the UK, we welcome the public to explore our rich and unique history.

VISITS

EXHIBITION

GUEST HOUSE

CAFE

EVENTS

CHAPEL

WELCOME TO THE UK’S OLDEST LIVING CONVENT…

Discover our story of secrecy, spies and survival in our fascinating exhibition and stunning 18th Century Hidden Chapel.

Enjoy a visit to our café for some of the best scones and cakes in the city and don’t miss the chance to stay in our award-winning Guest House situated in the heart of York.

Quick links

•   House
•   Library
•   Archives
•   Contact us
•   A brief history
•   Work with us
•   Volunteer

EXHIBITION

Explore the history of this fascinating house through incredible artefacts, engaging interactives and stories of the people who changed the course of history.
EXPLORE THE EXHIBITION

ROOMS

Our recently refurbished rooms offer comfort, convenience and friendly service within a heritage building that is steeped in history.
BOOK YOUR ROOM
Treasures of The Bar Convent

Treasures of The Bar Convent

July 18, 2025 - July 17, 2026    
All Day
Step inside the UK’s oldest living convent to explore Treasures of The Bar Convent, a powerful new permanent exhibition revealing [...]
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Mary Ward for Saint

Mary Ward for Saint

January 7, 2026 - December 31, 2027    
All Day
Mary Ward For Saint! Help us with our cause to have the trailblazer Yorkshire woman Mary Ward (1585–1645) declared a [...]
READ MORE
Medieval York

Medieval York

March 28, 2026 - August 29, 2026    
10:00 am - 5:00 pm
Join us as we delve into Medieval York. See the most spectacular Arma Christi medieval scroll in the world- depicting [...]
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Latest news

The Life of a CJ Sister

May 7, 2026

At the Bar Convent, we often share the stories of our founders. Pioneers like Mary Ward navigated an unpredictable world. However, our history lives beyond the archives. We are, after all, a living heritage centre. This work continues through women who call the Bar...

read more

KEEP IN TOUCH

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