York is famed for its rich history, which continues to attract millions of tourists each year. Next month, York Unlocked 2026 will provide residents with exclusive and unprecedented access to some of the city’s most famous historic buildings and attractions, for free! Thinking of taking a deep dive into the most fascinating aspects of our city’s history? See which buildings will be opening up….
Bishopthorpe Road and South
On Scarcroft Hill, visitors are welcome to explore Kentmere House Gallery, an art gallery originally built in 1898 by the Primitive Methodist Chapel Aid Association,and peek behind the scenes at the nearby Terry’s Factory Clock Tower. In Bishopthorpe itself, both the Grade I-listed Bishopthorpe Palace and C Hodgson Fowler-designed St Andrew’s Church will be opening their doors to Yorkies.
Bootham and Museum Gardens
In the Museum Gardens, both the 14th-century, timber-framed Hospitium and the George Fowler Jones-designed Museum Gardens Lodge will be open to visitors, while nearby, Yorkies can take a closer look at the Grade I-listed King’s Manor and architectural melting pot of Bootham School.
City Centre
In the heart of town, visitors can delve deep into the iconic eatery and tearoom Bettys, Georgian staple the Assembly Rooms, the former home of Tempest Anderson, York Medical Society, and Holy Trinity, Goodramgate, where the famous Yorkie Anne Lister married her partner in 1834. Visitors can also take a closer look at our city’s diverse medieval and industrial history on the Uncomfortable York Tour.
East
In the east of the city, participating venues include Bedern Hall, the iconic dining hall built in 1370, Merchant Taylors’ Hall, the medieval guildhall built in 1415, and RAFA House, home to the York branch of the Royal Forces Association. Visitors can also enjoy the beautiful St Anthony’s Hall & Garden, built between 1446 and 1453, and get hands-on with the local print wizards at Thin Ice Press, located in the schoolhouse.
Castlegate
In the Castlegate area, Yorkies can take a closer look at the John Carr-designed townhouse Castlegate House, the birthplace of Sir Thomas Herbert, Herbert House, and historic Pavement pub, the Golden Fleece. The 500-year-old, virtually unchanged Fishergate Postern Tower will also be opening its doors to residents.
Micklegate
While Micklegate is famed for its plethora of pubs, there’s more to the street than watering holes! This month, residents can immerse themselves in venues including the Methodist Chapel (Q York), designed by James Simpson of Leeds, St Columba’s York United Reform Church, which dates back to 1879, and the majestic Micklegate Bar, which once displayed the severed heads of rebels.
Holgate & Heslington
A little further out of town, residents can take an exclusive peek at Holgate Windmill, the last surviving five-sailed windmill in the city, built in 1770. The Grade II-listed Heslington Hall, originally built for Elizabethan courtier Sir Thomas Eynns, will also be opening its doors to locals.
Visit www.york-unlocked.org.uk/york-unlocked-2026-festival to see the full programme and plan your visit.
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