Luxury Bed & Breakfast - Boutique Guest House in York
Description
The cobbled courtyard belonging to Gray's Court at the junction of Chapter House Street and Ogleforth constitutes one of the most picturesque and unspoiled corners of York. Facing the courtyard entrance is Gray's Court itself, one of the most historic buildings in England. This ancient house was the residence of the Treasurers of York Minster from the 11th century until the latter was despoiled by Henry V111 in 1547. From 1788 to 1945 it was the home of the distinguished York family, the Gray's from whom the name is derived. It was sold to the Dean & Chapter of York Minster in 1945 who in turn sold it to its present owners in 2005.
Historical Development
After the Norman conquest, York Minster came under the reforming zeal of Thomas of Bayeux, he introduced a new body responsible for the administration of the Minster and it's possessions. This was under the control of four great dignitaries - the Dean, Chancellor, Precentor and Treasurer. The post of Treasurer although least in precedence was the best endowed, in 1291 for instance the Treasurer's revenue was seven times greater than the Chancellor and fourteen times that of the Precentor.
All that remains of the first great house is the medieval spine wall which can be seen on entry to the lower gallery of Gray's Court. Over the centuries, successive owners have altered and added to the house.
It is assumed that the original Norman Treasurers House remained largely unchanged until 1547. Between 1588-1620 the spaces between the six pillars fronting the original undercroft were bricked in and the Long Gallery, 86 ft. long and 121/2 ft wide, was built above them and panelled with oak. In 1742 Canon Jaques Sterne built the lovely room which now bears his name, this contains one of the finest fireplaces in York. In 1846 the Victorian drawing room known as the Bow Room was added. This fine room overlooks the extensive gardens and the City Walls.
The last important alteration to Gray's Court took place in 1900. The undercroft below the Long Gallery was transformed into the present entrance hall and an elaborately carved oak staircase leads from that to the Long Gallery. A delightful alcove was added to the Long Gallery, this contains some fine examples of 17th century painted glass. The sundial painted by Henry Gyles of Micklegate is one of the finest in the country.
In 1547 the William Clyff surrendered the Treasurership to the Crown on 26th May 1547. The house became the property of Edward Seymour, Duke of Somerset. He was the brother of Jane Seymour, Henry V111's ill fated third wife. From his hands in 1548 the house passed to Robert Holgate, Archbishop of York.
Other illustrious owners of Gray's Court include Sir Thomas Fairfax the leading parliamentarian general and Dr. Jaques Sterne, Precentor of York Minster. Dr. Sterne's brother Laurence wrote the novel Tristram Sandy, Gentleman.
Boutique Hotel
The present owners Helen and John Edwards (a conversation architect) are commencing an extensive programme of renovations to Gray's Court.
Once completed the house will offer luxurious boutique accommodation in twelve en-suite rooms and guests will be able to relax in the drawing rooms and Jacobean Long Gallery that have seen so much history.
We will also be able to offer facilities for private functions and small conferences ancillary to the bed and breakfast accommodation. The works should be complete by mid 2009.