Medieval gateways find new tenants

Two medieval gateways in York are being brought back into use.

Barry Crux & Company has secured a lease for Micklegate Bar and is close to completing a second deal for Monk Bar, both owned by City of York Council and vacant since the pandemic.

The 12th century Micklegate Bar, known as “traitors’ gate” after being used to display the heads of Richard, duke of York, his son Edmund, earl of Rutland, and close ally Richard Neville, earl of Salisbury, following the Battle of Wakefield in 1460, will be converted into a working print studio, gallery and exhibition space by artist Andy Winn. 

The ground floor will operate as a studio and retail space, with upper levels dedicated to gallery and exhibition use.

Andy, pictured below, who works under the name of ‘Drawne Up,’ said: “I’m really excited about working in such a fantastic building and seeing how it inspires my own work.

“There are going to be challenges to overcome, but it’s just a beautiful building, full of history and significance, and I think it’s a great space for creative work.

“I want to make sure people not only get to come in and see my work and prints, but that also of other artists.

“I also want them to be able to experience the building itself and learn about its history, so sometimes the top floor will be used for exhibition space, and at others it will be left free for people to see and enjoy as it is.

“I’m from York myself, so this is a special opportunity for me.

“I’m aiming to get open, even if its only the ground floor, in May.”

Artist Andy Winn

Meanwhile, a deal is nearing completion for 14th century Monk Bar, which is set to become a retail space for The Yorkshire Soap Company, subject to final agreements.

The gateways, which were previously used for heritage exhibitions, including The Henry VII Experience, The Richard III Experience and The City Walls Experience, attracted strong interest from businesses, artists and tourism operators following their marketing last year.

Andrew Spencer, agency director of commercial property estate agent Barry Crux & Company, said: “We’re thrilled to have played our part in bringing these important historic city buildings back into use, and we’re particularly pleased with the tenants we have attracted.

“From the outset we were very keen to ensure we found tenants who fitted the bill.

“Equally, we had to find tenants who were willing to work with the restrictions which come with operating from such historic properties, given they have no water supplies or toilet facilities.

“They have both shown great enthusiasm for the properties and have just had to be patient as each have needed to go through the process of securing planning permission to get where we are today.

“We’re confident that both Andy and The Yorkshire Soap Company will make great use of the gateways to bring them back into use in an appropriate way.

“Andy’s studio will be a fantastic addition to York’s cultural scene and we look forward to seeing it brought to life.

“Monk Bar is also a great property for The Yorkshire Soap Company as it fits well with its brand and focus on customer experience.

“It has been a fantastic project to be involved in, and we wish them both every success in these truly unique surroundings.”

Monk Bar, which dates back to the early 14th century

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