Kings Manor Turning left from Exhibition Square you pass the gate to Kings Manor. Built around 1280 as a residence for the Abbot Of St Mary's Abbey this fine building was enlarged by Abbot Sever in 1460. After the Reformation and the failure of the Pilgrimage Of Grace in 1536 it received its present name and became the headquarters of the Council Of The North. Serving in this capacity for nearly 100 years until the Civil War.		Among its many notable guests were Henry VIII, Queen Catherine Howard, Charles I, Charles II and James I. Kings Manor now belongs to the University Of York and is open to the public every week day from 10.00am - 5.00pm. It is a fascinating building to explore, and still retains several, original Tudor features. Tel: +44 (0)1904 433996 For more information. Return to the tour