31 March 2026
New leases of life for York’s historic city wall gateways as artist completes deal for Micklegate Bar and soap company set for Monk Bar
Barry Crux & Company are delighted to have played a key role in bringing York’s historic city wall gateways back into use – with a deal done on the lease of Micklegate Bar and another one now close to completion on Monk Bar.
Dating back to Roman times, the gateways, which were previously home to museums and attractions, have stood empty since exhibits closed during the Covid-19 pandemic lockdowns.
Belonging to City of York Council, Barry Crux & Company were instructed to market Micklegate Bar, which dates from the 12th century, and Monk Bar, which dates from the 14th century, last summer.
It led to huge demand from businesses, artists and tourism-based businesses, with the team at Barry Crux handling unprecedented levels of interest.
Now, the first deal has been completed, for Micklegate Bar, which will see it transformed into a working print studio, gallery and exhibition space by
Andy Winn, a specialist in traditional printing.
Mr Winn plans to set up the ground floor as a working studio and retail space, allowing visitors to see him at work, with a focus on prints inspired by York and its history.
The second floor will be transformed into a gallery, with the third floor saved for exhibition space for other local artists.
“I’m really excited about working in such a fantastic building and seeing how it inspires my own work,” said Mr Winn, who works under the name of ‘Drawne Up’
“There are going to be challenges to overcome, but it’s just a beautiful building, full of history and significance, and I think it’s a great space for creative work.
“I want to make sure people not only get to come in and see my work and prints, but that also of other artists. I also want them to be able to experience the building itself and learn about its history, so sometimes the top floor will be used for exhibition space, and at others it will be left free for people to see and enjoy as it is.
“I’m from York myself, so this is a special opportunity for me. I’m aiming to get open, even if its only the ground floor, in May.”
Deal for Monk Bar almost complete
Andrew Spencer, agency director of Barry Crux & Company, says the lease of Monk Bar, with The Yorkshire Soap Company, is also now very close to being completed also.
The company, which also runs York’s Imaginarium and The Society of Alchemists in the Shambles, was granted planning permission to turn it into a shop in February. The final lease details are now being agreed.
“We’re thrilled to have played our part in bringing these important historic city buildings back into use, and we’re particularly pleased with the tenants we have attracted,” said Mr Spencer.
“From the outset we were very keen to ensure we found tenants who fitted the bill.
“Equally, we had to find tenants who were willing to work with the restrictions which come with operating from such historic properties, given they have no water supplies or toilet facilities.
“They have both shown great enthusiasm for the properties and have just had to be patient as each have needed to go through the process of securing planning permission to get where we are today.”
“We’re confident that both Andy and The Yorkshire Soap Company will make great use of the gateways to bring them back into use in an appropriate way.
“Andy’s studio will be a fantastic addition to York’s cultural scene and we look forward to seeing it brought to life. Monk Bar is also a great property for The Yorkshire Soap Company as it fits well with its brand and focus on customer experience.
It has been a fantastic project to be involved in, and we wish them both every success in these truely unique surroundings.”
Andy Winn’s work can be found at www.drawneup.com, and on social media @drawneup
