[2] It was built on the site of a Saxon church and possibly of a Roman temple (the earliest records date from c. 1154).

Inside some of the earliest stained glass in York can be found: the sculpted Norman doorway and 15th century heraldic roof are also noteworthy features.

The figure of St Denys can be seen in the 15th-century east window – fewer than 40 English churches are dedicated to this French saint.

The church was originally a lot larger than it is now, as part of the church subsided after the king's fishpool was drained; another part gave way shortly after as a sewer was being built nearby and the current main entrance is situated where a window used to be.

The church was rebuilt in 1798 and then in 1846 - 1847 there were further alterations including the rebuilding of the west end and tower, and north and south arcades under the supervision of the architect Thomas Pickersgill.