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The Bar Convent
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The Bar Convent, 17 Blossom Street, York, YO24 1AQ -
View on Map
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10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Mary Ward was a pioneer of women's education, responsible for establishing schools across Europe for Catholic girls.
The Bar Convent was founded by Frances Bedingfield in the late 17th century, based on Mary Ward's principles.
Attraction Duration
Approx. 1hr+
Age Range
Suitable for all ages
About The Bar Convent
The Bar Convent is the oldest lived-in convent in England, established in 1686 by Frances Bedingfield.
Founded as a legacy to Mary Ward, the convent started out as a boarding school, later becoming a free day school for Catholic girls.
But it was a secret community; the convent’s sisters wore everyday clothes to disguise themselves and lived discreetly, hiding their true purpose.
This was due to King Henry VIII’s Reformation in the 1500s, which led to Roman Catholics being banned from practising their faith throughout the country.
When the present building was constructed in the 1700s, the chapel was created in the centre of the property, deliberately hidden from outside, allowing the nuns to worship safely.
Designed with plain windows to disguise the chapel’s real nature, eight exits were also added, providing escape routes for the congregation, along with a secret ‘priest hole’.
One of York’s most fascinating museums, The Bar Convent also houses a cafe, chapel and even a guest house.
Family Friendly 
History & Heritage 
Culture 
