York Minster to launch urgent appeal to protect 'jewel in its crown'

The Rose Window (Image: Danny Lawson/PA)

A NEW fundraising campaign is launching to protect one of York Minster's most famous assets.

York Minster is aiming to raise £1.4 million to conserve the Rose Window - one of the cathedral’s most iconic features - as part of a wider effort to safeguard its stained-glass collection from the effects of climate change.

The appeal launches on Yorkshire Day (August 1) and supported by donations from The Julia Rausing Trust and other private donors.

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Dr Marie Groll, director of the York Glaziers Trust, said: "The Rose Window is considered by many to be the jewel in the crown of York Minster's priceless stained-glass collection.

"Whilst the work of my predecessors has held up remarkably well, we can now halt the decay we are seeing today from UV and IR radiation.

"As conservators, we have a duty of care to the Minster, its heritage, and the people of York to ensure this remarkable window continues to stand proudly over our city."

The Rose Window was left with around 40,000 cracks across its 73 panels in 1984 when a lightning strike started a fire in the South Transept, exposing the window to temperatures around 450°C.

Photos from the fire on July 9, 1984

(Image: Newsquest)

Although conservation experts at the time managed to stabilise the window, a 2025 survey revealed that climate change now poses a new and urgent threat.

Situated high on the south-facing elevation of the cathedral, the Rose Window is especially vulnerable to ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR) radiation, as well as increased moisture.

These factors are accelerating the decay of stone, damaging painted glass surfaces, and causing the gradual failure of historic materials.

In response, York Minster’s Centre for Excellence for Heritage Craft Skills and Estate Management is partnering with The York Glaziers Trust to restore the medieval stonework and stained glass.

(Image: Pixabay)

They will also be installing new external glazing that will filter UV and IR rays - creating a “sacrificial barrier” to protect the original glass.

York Minster is appealing to the public to help fund the project and preserve this historic landmark for future generations - with the Minster receiving no regular financial support from the UK Government or the Church of England.

All funds raised will go directly towards the specialist skills, technology, and materials needed for the conservation work.

Donations can be made through the York Minster website at yorkminster.org, where updates about the project’s progress are also available.