York Residents’ Festival returns on Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th January 2025, offering York residents an amazing opportunity to enjoy exclusive deals, free entries, and unique experiences across the city.
Organised by Make It York, this much-loved event is a celebration of everything York has to offer, giving residents the chance to explore the city’s attractions, enjoy fantastic food, and support local businesses.
What’s On?
Get ready for an unmissable weekend celebrating everything that makes York special! The full list of offers and pre-booking will go live in early January 2025 at visityork.org/resfest. Read on for a glimpse of what’s to come – from free entry to iconic attractions and unique tours to exclusive dining deals, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Mark your calendar, start planning your weekend, and be ready to book early for venues with limited spaces!
Enjoy free entry to some of York’s most iconic attractions, including Beningbrough Hall, with its stunning gardens and exhibitions, and Merchant Adventurers’ Hall, where you can explore rare artefacts and awe-inspiring architecture. For thrill-seekers, the York Dungeon is offering 150 free tickets across the weekend at selected times (pre-booking required), giving residents the chance to experience its exciting and spine-chilling tour. Or, take to the streets with Golden Tours York, offering free open-top bus tours exclusively for York residents throughout the weekend. Simply show your York Card at Exhibition Square to hop on for a 50-minute tour of the city, departing hourly from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm.
Step into history with unique tours and exhibitions, including Ampleforth Abbey, where free guided tours led by a monk will reveal the fascinating architecture of this Sir Giles Gilbert Scott-designed church. Discover the hidden gems of Clifton Hospital and the history of mental health in York through an archaeological and archive exhibition hosted by York Archaeology and Explore York Libraries. Explore Bedern Hall, where York’s medieval story comes alive, or take a behind-the-scenes look at York Theatre Royal with exclusive free tours showcasing the theatre’s backstage secrets.
Food lovers can enjoy exclusive discounts at some of York’s most-loved venues. Treat yourself to 10% off at Love Cheese and The Speakcheesey, 25% off dining at Rio Steakhouse, or take advantage of family-friendly offers like kids eat free and a free drink with a meal at Pho. Chocolate fans can visit York Cocoa Works to create their own 30g chocolate bar for free during special workshops, or enjoy buy one get one free milkshakes at Loopy Scoops Ice Cream Parlour. Gin enthusiasts can visit York Gin, with 10% off in their shops and two-for-one tastings or experience vouchers available during the festival.
For families and adventurers, there’s plenty to enjoy. Let the kids burn off some energy at Oxygen Activeplay York, with 15% off climbing, jumping, and exploring, or step back in time at York Minster, which offers free entry year-round to York residents. Don’t forget to stop by The De Grey Rooms, the temporary home of The Belfrey, where you can explore the elegant Victorian ballroom and enjoy tea and cake for a good cause.
In addition to the main programme, local organisations are offering even more exciting experiences to enhance your weekend. At St. Helen’s Church, the York and District Organists’ Association invites you to drop in and try playing the church organ – no experience necessary! Over at York Explore Library, dive into cutting-edge technology with a free introduction to Augmented and Virtual Reality, featuring drop-in sessions and workshops for all ages. These opportunities add something truly special to the festival.
How to take part
To enjoy these offers, simply present a valid York Card, student card, or ID proving York residency (such as a driving licence or older person’s bus pass with a York address). Some offers may require pre-booking or additional proof of address, so be sure to check individual listings for full details.
Why attend?
York Residents’ Festival is your chance to celebrate everything that makes York so unique. From discovering iconic landmarks and indulging in delicious food to exploring hidden gems and supporting local businesses, it’s a weekend designed for residents to reconnect with their city. Whether you’re planning family fun, a foodie adventure, or a relaxing day out, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Mark your calendars and don’t miss out!
Head to visityork.org/resfest, where you’ll find all the details and booking options. Some venues have limited spaces, so make sure to book early and start planning your perfect festival weekend!
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