The historic venue in York has reopened its doors for its 300th anniversary after completion of the first phase of a major restoration project.
The home of the Lord Mayor of York reopened on Wednesday 6th August, after being closed since 10th November for restoration work, which included repairs to the building.
Work to build the house began in 1725 and was completed in 1732, making it one of the earliest civic buildings in England built in the classical style. The building holds and displays a collection of items that help to tell the story of York’s history, from priceless silver to historic swords.
During a previous restoration of the house, many items were found in the walls and floors with links to human life and superstitions. Some objects are on display in the Cabinet of Curiosities, including a mummified cat and a leather shoe found in a wall.
The second and final phase of the restoration project has begun and will include work to the roof and hanging of new wallpaper in the drawing room, which is being reproduced using 18th-century fragments that were found during the first phase.
The Rt Hon, The Lord Mayor of York, Councillor Martin Rowley BEM said: “For centuries, the Mansion House has been a focal point for the city and this investment is helping protect and maintain it as one of York’s important cultural assets.
“The rich pageant of civic events and ceremonies that add to the continuing story of the building can resume here, including the annual Georgian Festival, which starts on 7th August. The refreshed and restored building is a thing of beauty and is of great interest. I’m delighted we can open its doors to you once more.”
Visiting Mansion House
Mansion House is open to visitors from Wednesday to Sunday, 10:30am to 5pm for seasonal trails, tours and activities as well as daily cooking demonstrations, which take place in the recreated 18th-century kitchen.
Groups of ten or more can enjoy guided tours lasting around one hour and 15 minutes. Led by guides, the tours take groups on a journey through the house and its history, looking at the secrets and scandals linked to the home of the Lord Mayor.
For more information about Mansion House, visit www.mansionhouseyork.com.
