Bishopthorpe Palace facts for kids

Bishopthorpe Palace viewed from the Ouse, 1995

Bishopthorpe Palace is a historic country house located in Bishopthorpe. This village is just south of York, in North Yorkshire, England. The palace sits right beside the River Ouse. It is the official home of the Archbishop of York. People in the area sometimes simply call it "the Archbishop's Palace."

Bishopthorpe Palace: A Historic Home

Bishopthorpe Palace is a very old and important building. It has been the home of the Archbishop of York for many centuries. The Archbishop is a senior leader in the Church of England. This beautiful palace is a key part of English history.

The Palace's Long History

The story of Bishopthorpe Palace began a long time ago.

• In 1226, an important church leader, Archbishop Grey, bought a manor house. This house was in a village then called St. Andrewthorpe.
• Archbishop Grey gave the house to the leaders of York Minster. After this, the village became known as Bishopthorpe.
• In 1241, Archbishop Grey built a new manor house and a chapel on the site.
• A red brick section was added to the north side in the 1400s.
• The grand Gatehouse, which you can still see today, was built in 1765.
• In 1863, a water tower was built. This tower helped get clean drinking water from a well. Before this, people used river water.
• The water tower was taken down in 1946. However, you can still see some of its old foundations in a nearby garden.

What Makes the Palace Special?

Bishopthorpe Palace is a very special building.

• It is a Grade I listed building. This means it is considered a building of exceptional historical importance.
• The palace is set in a lovely wooded area. It feels like a peaceful countryside retreat.
• The property includes several other interesting buildings. These include a gatehouse, stables, and even an old brewhouse.
• The palace was updated and redesigned between 1763 and 1769. A famous architect named Thomas Atkinson led this work.

Recent Times at the Palace

More recently, the palace has continued its important role.

• When Archbishop John Sentamu became the Archbishop of York, he did not move into the palace right away.
• This was because the palace was undergoing a big renovation. It was being repaired and restored to its former glory.