A normally-hidden corner of ancient York is to be opened to the public as part of a nationwide event which will blow away the cobwebs from hundreds of secret historic treasures.

Tours of St Leonard's Hospital, in the Museum Gardens, are being organised by York Central Library, which uses part of the building as a store.

The event has been organised for Heritage Open Days 98, a nationwide weekend of events on Saturday and Sunday, September 12 and 13.

St Leonard's was one of Britain's largest medieval hospices for the poor, and at one time covered a large site between St Mary's Abbey and the Minster.

There is evidence that it was founded in the eighth century, and it is mentioned in a letter by Alcuin in 795AD as giving a daily welcome to the poor and to travellers.

The brethren are documented as giving out free loaves and herring, and on one occasion 14 gallons of beer.

The tours, which will also take in other behind-the scenes areas of the library, will take place on the Saturday only at 9.30am, 10.30am, 11.30am, 1pm, 2pm and 3pm. Admission is by ticket only, available from the inquiry desk at the library in Museum Street. For more details contact York 655631.

As already reported in the Evening Press, other historic buildings in North Yorkshire will be open to the public, including

Artefacts, the oldest timber-framed house in Whitby

The House of Correction at Ripon, a stone lock-up for vagrants and drunks, built in 1686 and which has never been open to the public before

North Yorkshire police headquarters at Newby Wiske Hall, built in 1684 and also open for the first time

The 15th century Guildhall in St Helen's Square

Holy Trinity Church in Goodramgate

Chapel of St Mary Magdalen, Magdalens Road, Harrogate.

Directories giving more details of Heritage Open Days 98 are available free of charge from local tourist information centres.

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