Leaving a legacy to the Merchant Taylors

You can play an essential part in conserving the hall for future generations. Your contribution is vital in ensuring that it remains a vibrant part of York, inspiring and captivating generations to come

One way to do this is by leaving a legacy in our wills. Many charities have set up legacy schemes enabling people to leave a legacy to help them continue their work.  Leaving a legacy to The Merchant Taylors is easy and worthwhile.

The Company of Merchant Taylors of the City of York is a registered charity (number  229067) entrusted with conserving and promoting the Merchant Taylors' Hall in York. It is a Grade I listed building, which designates it as a structure of exceptional historical and architectural importance. an iconic heritage site. With origins dating back to the 13th Century, the Merchant Taylors is one of only three guilds in York to have existed continuously since medieval times.

Join us in protecting and preserving its fabric and cultural heritage. Your contribution ensures this Medieval gem remains a vibrant part of York, inspiring and captivating future generations.

Your legacy will contribute to the hall's physical preservation and promote public access and enjoyment. We want everyone to experience the enchantment of stepping into history and immersing themselves in the ambience of this remarkable space.

You can find further information in the FAQs on this page or

contact our Clerk

Here is some further information about Legacy Giving

  • The official name is the Company of Merchant Taylors of the City of York. Its registered Charity Commission number is 229067.

  • By leaving a legacy, you contribute directly to helping the Merchant Taylors achieve their crucial goals. We are committed to safeguarding this unique six-hundred-year-old Medieval Hall built in the year that the battle of Agincourt was fought for present and future generations and continuing our charitable aims. You will be helping to protect and preserve its fabric and cultural heritage.

  • The amount you leave is entirely up to you. Every gift, big or small, can make a difference. There is no minimum amount required. Any size gift is deeply appreciated and will make a positive impact.

  • If you wish it to be, then it will be. If you wish your legacy to remain confidential, then that will be honoured.

  • Write a Will or update your existing one, or if you already have a will, add a codicil (an amendment) to include the charity bequest. Your Solicitor can advise you of the form of words.

  • There are several ways you can leave a gift to a charity in your Will in the UK:

    Pecuniary gift: This is a straightforward option where you specify a fixed amount of money you'd like to donate to the charity.

    Specific gift:  This allows you to leave a particular item, like jewellery or artwork, to charity.

    Residuary gift: This is a gift of what remains in your estate after debts, expenses, and other specific gifts have been distributed. You can choose a percentage or the entire remaining amount.

  • Inheritance Tax is a tax paid on the value of your estate above the nil rate band when you die. Any money or assets you leave to a UK charity are deducted from the value of your estate before the Inheritance Tax is calculated. This can significantly reduce the amount of Inheritance Tax your beneficiaries must pay. This advice is of course subject to Government legislation and should be checked at the time of the legacy.

  • We strongly recommend you speak with your solicitor for specific advice about your situation and will. For information about the Merchant Taylors, our Clerk will be happy to answer any questions you may have.

    Email on

    clerk@merchant-taylors-york.org