Beverley Minster has been awarded almost £245,000 from the National Lottery to help it draw up a plan to apply for more funding to restore the building.
The church hopes to get a further £4.3m in lottery cash to carry out repairs on the east end of the building, including roof and masonry repairs and the conservation of a medieval window.
The Destinations Project will also see the area outside the church developed into a biodiverse green space in partnership with Bishop Burton College.
Beverley Minster is one of the largest parish churches in the UK and its history dates back to the early 8th Century.
The leader of East Riding of Yorkshire Council Anne Handley described the restoration plans as an “exciting project”.
“As a prominent visitor attraction, the Minster plays a crucial role in bolstering the visitor economy of the East Riding,” she said.
“Its ongoing success significantly enhances the region’s economic vitality, drawing tourists and fostering local business growth.”
The church was awarded £244,203 for the project, which will involve volunteers and schools through events and training opportunities.
The Minster said it was exploring a possible collaboration with York Minster to support stone masonry training and heritage skills.
Listen to highlights from Hull and East Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, watch the latest episode of Look North or tell us about a story you think we should be covering here.