A modern Vibrant Company
with a rich history that dates back to the 13th Century
Beyond its historical significance, the company of Merchant Taylors remains a vibrant force in York today. We are dedicated to:
Conserving one of the world’s finest Medieval Guild Halls in the centre of York. The extraordinary Merchant Taylors’ Hall.
Supporting young people through grants in arts, craftsmanship, and music.
Offering an extraordinary venue for weddings, dinners, conferences, and meetings.
Preserving our historical traditions and ensuring that we reflect modern life.
Governance
The Full Court of all Members is the Company’s governing body.
It appoints members to the Court of Assistants, which acts as the Company's executive committee; its members are effectively the company's trustees. The Court of Assistants is answerable to the Full Court and charged with the company's routine management and the charity's long-term planning and strategy.
The Court of Assistants is supported by several Committees, which are responsible for the various areas of Company business and act in an advisory capacity only.
Membership
The Merchant Taylor’s is an ancient Guild, a membership organisation that has contributed to national life for over 600 years.
Our membership reflects a diverse range of personal and professional backgrounds. While some members maintain ties to the tailoring industry, others represent various professions, including business, medicine, healthcare, law, academia, public service, and the military. Many also bring valuable experience as trustees for local and national charities.
Members include lifelong residents of York, those who moved here for work, and others drawn to the city as a vibrant place to retire. The Company recognises the importance of becoming more inclusive and is actively working to broaden its diversity.
The Merchant Taylors’ Hall remains central to our activities, serving as a space for business, connection, and community. We are committed to investing in the Hall and our Company while continuing to contribute to the life of York. Honouring our heritage while looking to the future, we aim to support the city, its residents, and visitors in fostering a welcoming, inspiring, and neighbourly environment.
We welcome applications to join the membership from people who have an active interest in the work of the Company and its Charity and who can give their time, skills, and expertise to support the company's future evolution, building on the legacy of generations of Merchant Taylors. Click this link to learn more.
