A much-loved free festival is returning to York this autumn.
York Unlocked, a two-day event organised and run by volunteers, offers residents and visitors the opportunity to explore buildings and outdoor spaces that are normally closed to the public.
It takes place this year on Saturday 27 and Sunday 28 September 2025.
The 2025 programme is set to once again unlock the doors to some of York’s most remarkable, significant and rarely accessible buildings – all free of charge!
The festival aims to celebrate York’s architectural and cultural heritage.
Some of the highlights for 2025 include:
- Behind the scenes access at the National Railway Museum, including its archives, art stores, conservation studio, and inside locomotive cabs.
- Nestle’s Production Technology Centre
- The Old Bonding Warehouse
- A tour of the proposed Coney Street Riverside Development
- Holgate Windmill
- Herbert House, including proposed plans for its redevelopment
- York Medical Society
- Joseph Rowntree Memorial Library
- The medieval Guildhall, where town council meetings are still held
- The Assembly Rooms, now ASK Italian
“Our ambition has always been to open up the city in new and unexpected ways,” said Steve Morgan, project lead for York Unlocked.
“We are thrilled to be returning with a really incredible set of buildings this year, and we look forward to welcoming even more people to explore the incredible architecture that makes York so unique.”
Whether you are interested in history and architecture, enjoy discovering York’s hidden gems, or simply like a good look inside some of it’s most fascinating buildings – this is a festival for everyone.
An education trail will also be part of the weekend, designed to engage children or inspire your inner child.
Further programme details and a full list of participating venues are forthcoming – check the York Unlocked website for updates.