York Residents’ Festival 2023 – Your guide to attractions and things to do
York Residents’ Festival is back for 2023 – with a whole weekend of free fun.
Organised by Make It York, the annual festival is a thank you to residents for sharing the city with York’s millions of visitors throughout the year.
The festival takes place over the weekend of 28 to 29 January, though some offers are extended or take place later in the year.
More York Residents’ Festival deals
We’ve put together a guide of all the attractions that are taking part in York ResFest this year – including York Minster, York Dungeon and York Castle Museum.
For music lovers, there’s performances at the Black Swan Folk Club or a singing session at National Centre for Early Music.
If you like to get crafty, there’s 20% off pottery painting at Rainbow Ceramics or learn about the art and craft of stained glass at The Stained Glass Centre.
Further afield, explore the beautiful Castle Howard grounds, try rock climbing at Lost Earth Adventures and discover the garden at Beningbrough.
For foodie lovers, there’s a tasting and tour at Ellers Farm Distillery, craft your own chocolate treat at York Cocoa Works, or take a Yorkshire Appetite Food Tour.
How to take part
York Residents’ Festival is open to all York Residents who have a valid YorkCard, student ID card, or identity card that proves York residency.
YorkCards are available from all of York’s Explore libraries, with a £6 administration charge for adults (free for under 18s) or £10 for non-residents who work in the city.
YorkCards entitles users to discounts at a range of leisure facilities and attractions throughout the year.
Attractions & Things to Do
All Saints Church North Street
27 – 28 Jan
We have two days of exciting events, with a coffee morning and church history talk on Friday 27th followed by tours of the stained glass and anchorhold, fun family activities, and illuminated evensong and benediction on Saturday 28th. All welcome!
- North St, York YO1 6JD
- No booking required
- More info
Barley Hall
28-29 Jan
Barley Hall is a medieval townhouse, tucked away down one of the oldest streets in York. This year you can explore a brand new exhibition, Bard at Barley Hall, featuring costumes worn by famous actors. Free to residents after 2pm. SOLD OUT
- Coffee Yard, off Stonegate, York, YO1 8AR
- Pre-book online by selecting the ‘Free adult’ or free child’ option or by calling 01904615505
- More info
Bedern Hall
28-29 Jan
Discover one of York’s true hidden medieval gems at Bedern Hall! From Butchers to Bakers and Pork Pie Makers, chorals to squirrels, we continue the centuries old Bedern tradition of good food, good friends, and good times.
- Bedern Hall, Bartle Garth, St Andrewgate, York, YO1 7AL
- No booking required
- More info
Trending
Beningbrough Hall, Gallery and Gardens
28-29 Jan
Grab your calling cards as you explore the garden and uncover the fascinating stories of the people who shaped Beningbrough with new, never been told before stories from the latest research, voices from the past, interactive elements and family trail.
- Beningbrough, York, North Yorkshire, YO30 1DD
- No booking required
- More info
Black Swan Folk Club
29 Jan
Winter Folk Day performances by folk musicians. Two sessions 2pm-5:30pm and 7:30pm-10:30pm. Held in the Wolfe Room at The Black Swan Inn.
- 23 Peasholme Grn, York YO1 7PR
- No booking required
- More info
Brew York
28 Jan
Come see where it all began with a FREE mini tour of our original brewery as you enjoy a fresh beer on us. Tours are at 1pm and 2pm. SOLD OUT
- Unit 6, Enterprise Complex, Walmgate, York YO1 9TT
- Email [email protected] to pre-book
- More info
Castle Howard
28-29 Jan
Spend the day exploring the beautiful Castle Howard Grounds. The Gardens are littered with fountains and statues, ornamental woodlands and lakes. Swing through the trees at Skelf Island, adventure playground. Or indulge in some tasty delights in our cafes.
- Castle Howard, York, YO60 7DA
- Pre-booking required, use code YORKRESFEST23 and book at the link below
- More info
Central Methodist Church
28 Jan
This Grade II* listed building, built in 1840, is one of the few chapels of it’s period still intact. See the horseshoe shaped interior with gallery and box pews, and listen to the organ, one of the finest in York.
- St Saviourgate, York YO1 8NQ
- No booking required
- More info
City Cruises
28-29 Jan
Set sail with City Cruises this Residents Festival! Join us at Kings Staith or Lendal Bridge for a free cruise at either 11:00, 12:00, 13:00, 14:00 or 15:00. No pre-booking, first-come, first-served!
- Kings Staith or Lendal Bridge
- No booking required
- More info
Clifford’s Tower
28-29 Jan
Immerse yourself in history at one of York’s most iconic sites and experience views over the city. A new roof deck, walkways and staircases have opened up parts of the tower, and new interpretation brings the tower’s history to life.
- Tower Street, York, North Yorkshire, YO1 9SA
- No booking required
- More info
DIG: An Archaeological Adventure
28-29 Jan
Immerse yourself in history at one of York’s most iconic sites and experience views over the city. A new roof deck, walkways and staircases have opened up parts of the tower, and new interpretation brings the tower’s history to life. SOLD OUT
- DIG, St Saviour’s Church, St Saviourgate, York, YO1 8NN
- Pre-book online by selecting the ‘Free adult’ and ‘Free child’ options or call 01904615505
- More info
Ellers Farm Distillery
28 Jan
Ellers Farm Distillery is one of the only UK distilleries that makes vodka from scratch. We have been carbon neutral from day one and uniquely make our vodka from British apples. Join us for an in-depth explanation of our distillation process and a tutored tasting of our product range!
- Ellers Farm Distillery Limited, Stamford Bridge, YO41 1AR
- Pre-book by emailing [email protected]
- More info
Fairfax House
28-29 Jan
Free entry to Fairfax House, Castlegate – a furnished 18th century historic house museum. Numbers will be limited and will need to be pre-booked online.
- Fairfax House, Castlegate, York YO1 9RN
- Pre-book online
- More info
Fishergate Postern Tower
28-29 Jan
See inside this watch-tower on York’s City Walls. Rarely open to the public, our volunteers will show you the spiral staircase, Tudor toilet and timber roof. Learn about the history of the Walls, work the model portcullis, find a remarkably complete garderobe, and look out for any approaching invaders!
- Junction of Piccadilly and Lead Mill Lane YO1 9AF
- No booking required
- More info
Get Cycling
28 Jan
Free half-day bike hire (5 hours). One hire per person. Deposit required.
- 22 Hospital Fields Road, York YO10 4DZ
- Pre-booking is required via telephone (01904 636812) or email ([email protected]) quoting Residents Festival
- More info
Goddards
4-5 March
Explore the garden where the Terry family lived (think Chocolate Orange) on its opening weekend for 2023. Five acres of garden rooms surround their former home. Discover fragrant borders, wildlife areas and glasshouse, alongside a more formal pond and lawn.
- 27 Tadcaster Road, York, YO24 1GG
- No booking required
- More info
Holgate Windmill
28-29 Jan
Come and see York’s only surviving windmill, built in 1770, now restored and in full working order. We celebrated our 250th anniversary year in 2020. Stoneground wholemeal and spelt flour milled here is available for sale.
- Windmill Rise, Holgate, York, YO26 4TX
- No booking required
- More info
Holy Trinity Church
28-29 Jan
Come and experience this hidden gem. Walk in the footsteps of Anne Lister (Gentleman Jack) and George Hudson (The Railway King). The doors will be open between 11am and 3pm for each day of Residents Festival, along with a trail to help families explore the secrets of this lovely building.
- 70 Goodramgate, York, North Yorkshire, YO1 7LF
- No booking required
- More info
Indoor Events Space @ Spark York CIC
29 Jan
Enjoy some musical fun for the whole family! You will sing your hearts out, jam on drums, and make music together! Led by North Yorkshire Music Therapy Centre, this sound-packed session will boost your confidence and get your creative juices flowing!
- SPARK:York CIC, 17-21 Piccadilly, York YO1 9PB
- Pre-book online by using the link below
- More info
Jorvik Viking Centre
28-29 Jan
Discover York’s Viking legacy at the award-winning JORVIK Viking Centre! Meet a Viking of Coppergate, get up close with rare artefacts and take in the sights, sounds and smells of Viking-age York when you visit. Free to residents after 2pm. SOLD OUT
- Coppergate Shopping Centre, 19 Coppergate, York YO1 9WT
- Pre-book online by selecting the ‘Free adult’ or ‘Free child’ option or by calling 01904615505
- More info
Kentmere House Gallery
28-29 Jan
The gallery searches out exciting original professional art & shows it in an informal & welcoming setting, with nationally-known artists shown alongside promising newcomers.
- 53 Scarcroft Hill, York, YO24 1DF
- No booking required
- More info
Lost Earth Adventures
28-29 Jan
Come try rock climbing and abseiling with us at Brimham Rocks on a 3hr taster session. Suitable for all abilities and anyone aged 7+. All equipment included. Maximum 2 people/booking.
- Brimham Rocks, Brimham Moor Road, Summerbridge, Harrogate HG3 4DW
- Email [email protected] to pre-book your slot
- More info
Merchant Adventurers’ Hall
28 Jan
Fascinating tales, awe inspiring architecture and intriguing, rare artefacts…explore this stunning timber framed building free of charge on Saturday 28th January. The Merchants’ Coffee House will also be open serving delicious food and drinks.
- The Hall, Fossgate, York, YO1 9XD
- No booking required
- More info
Merchant Taylors’ Hall
29 Jan
An opportunity to be hosted by members of the Merchant Taylors of the City of York, who will be on hand to explain the many colourful facets and intriguing history of this wonderful medieval hall that spans over 600 years.
- Aldwark, York, YO1 7BX
- No booking required
- More info
Mountain Goat Tours
28-29 Jan
We are pleased to offer 50% discount. Booking via our website, using the promo code ‘YORK50’ at checkout.
- Victoria Street, Windermere, Cumbria, LA23 1AD
- Pre-booking required online
- More info
National Centre for Early Music
29 Jan
We are running a Residents’ Weekend special taster of the NCEM’s monthly singing session Cuppa & a Chorus. You don’t need any experience, just a willingness to come along and have a sing. There will be hot drinks and cakes too!
- National Centre for Early Music, St. Margaret’s Church, Walmgate, York YO1 9TL
- Pre-booking required online
- More info
Pilot Theatre – Monoliths VR
28-29 Jan
A chance to experience virtual reality with Pilot Theatre’s Monoliths, exploring three Northern environments with sweeping soundscapes and poetic monologues. Monoliths is an arresting testament to the inextricable link between person and place. Event supported by York BID.
- National Centre for Early Music, St. Margaret’s Church, Walmgate, York YO1 9TL
- No booking required
- More info
The York BID – Reunion
16 Jan – 6 Feb
York’s winter nights are to be brightened up by this eye-catching light installation. The York BID are bringing ‘Reunion’ to St Sampson Square – a light art installation by Kumquat Lab. The artwork represents connectedness and the act of gathering together.
- St Sampsons Square
- No booking required
- More info
Rainbow Ceramics
28-29 Jan
20% – Bisque only. Exc food, drinks and pre booked parties. 20% off all Pottery on 28th & 29th January. Exc. food, drinks and pre bookings.
- 15-17 Bootham, York YO30 7BW/
- No booking required
- More info
St Denys Church
28 Jan
A warm community welcome is extended to allcomers…. We will offer tea, tours, talks and entertainment under the theme of “Eat-Pray-Love….” telling the history and ambition of our beloved church alongside refreshment both bodily and spiritual; celebrating the refurbished church fabric and fabulous ‘Henry’ organ installation.
- Walmgate, York, YO1 9QD
- No booking required
- More info
The Stained Glass Centre at St Martin cum Gregory, Micklegate
28-29 Jan
A rare opportunity to visit one of York’s most beautiful ‘secret’ buildings and learn about the art and craft of stained glass. Our stained glass experts will be on hand for demonstrations and discussions.
- St Martin-cum-Gregory Church, St Martin’s Lane, York YO1 6LN
- No booking required
- More info
The Bar Convent
28 Jan
Explore the UK’s oldest living convent, established in secret in 1686 when Catholicism was illegal. It is home to the Congregation of Jesus who opened the first school for girls in the country in London in 1669- and the second in this house. Please note, there will be an entry charge of 50p.
- 17 Blossom Street, York, YO24 1AQ
- No booking required
- More info
The Grand, York
28-30 Jan
Step inside York’s only five-star hotel, previously the Head Offices for the North Eastern Railway HQ and enjoy a guided tour of bedrooms, old railway offices, event spaces and even meet The Grand’s resident bees!
- The Grand, Station Rise, York YO1 6GD
- Pre-book at the link below
- More info
The Guildhall York
28-29 Jan
Residents will have access all areas of The Guildhall York, with a self-guided interactive tour of the 15th century Medieval Hall, The Historic Council Chamber and the Committee Room. All cakes and coffees will have 10% off at The Riverside Cafe for the weekend and those who complete the quiz will be in for a chance to win a £20 voucher for the Cafe Lounge. The Wedding Coordinators will also be on hand for any newly engaged couples who would like a show round of the venue! York Gin will be running free gin tastings and talks for residents from 11am on both days!
- St Martins Courtyard, Coney St, York YO1 9QL
- Pre-book at the link below
- More info
The Hole in Wand York
28-29 Jan
Play a free game of magical wizarding golf! See our new and improved holes, take on our new riddles and have a potion in our Tavern. SOLD OUT
- 14-16 Coppergate Walk, York, YO1 9NT
- Pre-booking required
- More info
The York Dungeon
28-31 Jan
Free entry to the York Dungeon from the 28th to the 31st January, before 12 Noon. Limited availability. Tickets must be pre-booked online using the promotional code. Pre-booking required – details on how to book will be announced soon. SOLD OUT
- 12 Clifford Street, York, YO1 9RD
- Pre-booking required
- More info
Treasurer’s House
23-24 Apr
Discover this intriguing house on a tour. See the collection of fine antiques, art and furniture created by one man. Tucked behind York Minster and given to the National Trust by the wealthy and eccentric Industrialist Frank Green in 1930.
- Minster Yard, York, North Yorkshire, YO1 7JL
- Pre-booking via the website – select National Trust member option and type RESFEST when asked for membership number
- More info
Trinity Church York
28-29 Jan
Visit our medieval hall to see unique timber bracing, fifteenth-century carvings, and the home of a thriving church. With mini-lectures at 10am, 11am and 1pm on Saturday on Medieval Motherhood, How York Became Christian and The York Conservation Trust.
- St Anthony’s Hall, Peasholme Green, York, YO1 7PW
- Pre-booking by emailing [email protected]
- More info
Wizard Walk of York
28 Jan
Join The Wizard of York for five-star family fun, with spellbinding magic, comedy and a dash of history. A tour that wizard fans are going Potty for!The most magical ticket in town! Ideal for ages 5-10 and their families.
- Meet on the Shambles
- Pre-booking by emailing [email protected] with the total number of adults and children
- More info
York Army Museum
28-29 Jan
Discover our regiments’ stories from 1685 to the present day. Trails, crafts and object-handling. While you’re here, collect a free mini sketch book (made from recycled coffee cups) and pencil and sketching guide and sketch your favourite bits of York as you go around the city!
- 3 Tower Street, York, YO1 9SB
- No booking required
- More info
York Art Gallery
28-29 Jan
The galleries of fine art and ceramics are free to enjoy. Discover a new display of treasures from the stores. See some of the jewels of the collection in a new light plus rarely displayed works.
- Exhibition Square, York, YO1 7EW
- Pre-booking preferred via the website
- More info
York Castle Museum
28-29 Jan
The galleries of fine art and ceramics are free to enjoy. Discover a new display of treasures from the stores. See some of the jewels of the collection in a new light plus rarely displayed works.
- Eye of York, York, YO1 9RY
- Pre-booking preferred via the website
- More info
York Cemetery
29 Jan
The Friends of York Cemetery open the Pritchett Chapel for: History, Identify Symbols on Graves and Garden Walks Catacomb Tours Grave Searches Self Guided Trails Make a cone bird feeder (ideal for children) Free tea/coffee and cake.
- 49 Cemetery Rd, York YO10 5AJ
- No booking required
- More info
York Cocoa Works
29 Jan
We are most grateful for the support of York’s Residents throughout the last few years and we would like to invite you to join us at York Cocoa Works to craft your own chocolate treat to share or enjoy all to yourself!
- 49 Cemetery Rd, York YO10 5AJ
- Pre-book at the link below
- More info
York Cold War Bunker
28-29 Jan
The most modern and spine-chilling of English Heritage’s properties, the York Cold War Bunker uncovers the secret history of Britain’s Cold War. Enter the blast-proof doors and investigate the more unusual side of York’s heritage. SOLD OUT
- Monument Close, York, YO24 4HT
- Pre-booking required
- More info
York Explore: Map Attack! Lego City of Wonder
28 Jan
Drop in and use our Lego and Duplo to build the wonderful city of York. Take inspiration from historic maps of York from the city’s archives. What will you create?
- Library Square, York YO1 7DS
- No booking required
- More info
York Explore: Mapping Historic York Exhibition
28 Jan
Come along to explore the history of York’s built environment. Learn about York as it was, as it is, and as it might have been in this display of original material from the city’s archive.
- Library Square, York YO1 7DS
- No booking required
- More info
York Medical Society
28-29 Jan
York Medical Society has its own rooms within a beautiful Grade II listed building in Stonegate, providing a unique location for topical lectures, events and wedding receptions. Explore the building, and refreshments will be available with proceeds supporting York Foodbank.
- 23 Stonegate, York, YO1 8AW
- No booking required
- More info
York Mansion House
28-29 Jan
Step inside and walk in the footsteps of Lords and Ladies, cooks and butlers. Explore four floors, from the authentic Georgian kitchen below stairs to the 18th century splendour above, steeped in 300 years of scandal, secrets and superstition.
- St Helen’s Square, York, YO1 9QL
- No booking required
- More info
York Minster
28-29 Jan
Experience panoramic views of York from the highest point in the city – York Minster’s Central Tower. See medieval stonework and gothic grotesques as you climb 275 steps to the top. You must be aged 8+ to climb the tower. Trips run every 45 minutes starting 10.15am on Saturday, with the last taking place at 3.30pm. On Sunday, the first trip takes place at 1.15 pm and the last at 2.45pm.
- York Minster, Deangate, York, YO1 7HH
- Trips can only be booked in person on the day, are weather dependent and will be available on a first come, first served basis
- More info
York Photo Walks
28 Jan
Our photowalks are about learning and developing your photography knowledge, whilst exploring York’s rich history, people, nature and architecture. The aim is to inspire you to stretch your creative legs when you are out and about with your camera.
- Various locations
- Pre-book by email: [email protected] or call: 07950 882794
- More info
York RLFC – LNER Community Stadium
29 Jan
The LNER Community Stadium is delighted to offer York residents the chance to join us on stadium tours. Tours will be running at 11am, 12noon, 1pm and 2pm with a maximum of 12 people on a first come, first serve basis. Please meet at the York RLFC Club Shop 15minutes prior to your booked tour time. SOLD OUT
- Kathryn Ave, Monks Cross Dr, Huntington, York YO32 9AF
- Pre-book using the link below
- More info
York Steiner School
29 Jan
A warm welcome awaits all local families at our seasonal craft day and tour. Experience the magic of a Steiner education over a hot drink in our cosy community room – and find out why parents rate us so highly!
- Danesmead, Fulford Cross, Fulford, York, YO10 4PB
- Pre-book by contacting the school office by phone or e mail
- More info
York Theatre Royal
29 Jan
York Theatre Royal invite the people of York to join us for a free tour to find out more about the fascinating history of the theatre, discover secrets about our backstage world and learn more about the building.
- St. Leonard’s Place, York, YO1 7HD
- Pre-book via the box office
- More info
York’s Chocolate Story
28-29 Jan
At York’s Chocolate Story, we’re offering free entry to our first four tours on the 28th and 29th of January. This offer is for walk-ins only. Residents will also receive 20% off our guided tours, for the whole weekend.
- King’s Square, York YO1 7LD
- No booking required
- More info
York’s Hidden History
28-29 Jan
Join York’s Hidden History and uncover the city’s ancient, natural, and scientific secrets on our guided walks. For the Residents’ Festival we’ll be offering a York Ice Walk in the morning and a Micklegate Meander in the afternoon.
- Monk Bar and Micklegate Bar
- Please book your place via the Events section of our Facebook page below
- More info
Yorkshire Appetite Food Tours
6 Jan – 26 Feb
50% off York Food Tours for available tours in January and February. Tours take place on Fridays and Sundays. Code YORKRESIDENT23
- Meet at York Art Gallery
- Pre-book via the website
- More info
Yorkshire Heart Vineyard & Brewery
29 Jan
We are offering free wine tasting in our Winehouse cafe, and a short vineyard and free winery tours on the hour every hour from 11am until 2pm. Turn up and have a look round York’s local vineyard.
- Pool Lane, Nun Monkton, York YO26 8EL
- No booking required
- More info
Yorkshire Museum
28-29 Jan
Home to some of the greatest archaeological and geological finds in Britain! Explore the city’s Roman, Viking and Medieval past through an extraordinary range of artefacts and meet our prehistoric predecessors in Yorkshire’s Jurassic World! For all the family.
- Museum Gardens, Museum Street, York, YO1 7FR
- Pre-book via the website
- More info