Merchant Adventurers' Hall - Free Audio Guide

The Merchant Adventurers' Hall is a medieval guildhall located in York, England. This Grade I listed building serves as a scheduled ancient monument. Most of the Hall was constructed in 1357 and was initially a religious fraternity hall before becoming the home of the Company of Merchant Adventurers, receiving a royal charter from Queen Elizabeth I in 1581. The building is notable for its impressive timber framing, particularly the Great Hall, which remains the largest timber-framed structure in use for its original purpose. The Hall includes a chapel and undercroft for the poor and ill. Currently, the Company operates as a charitable organization, continuing to play a vital role in York’s cultural scene. The Hall features significant artworks, including pieces by Jan Griffier and William Etty.