York Unlocked have now complied the final list of over 50 buildings and spaces that will open their doors for this year’s York Unlocked Festival Weekend, 27-28 September. Highlights include rare behind-the-scenes access to the National Railway Museum, Nestle’s Product Technology Centre, Bettys, the Jospeh Rowntree Theare, and the Terry’s Factory Clock Tower.
This is your chance to step inside some of York’s most intriguing and normally inaccessible locations - places you may have only glimpsed through windows or passed by without a second glance.
A host of buildings and spaces, some historical, some modern, some new and some favourites are included and for the first time this year you can peruse the full programme to decide which of York's interesting spaces you would like to explore.
Whether you have just a lunch break to spare, a single day to enjoy, or the whole weekend to indulge, the programme allows you to tailor your experience. For most venues, no booking or advance planning is required; simply walk up and enjoy access. However, for a select number of buildings, it is necessary to book a free ticket in advance. Tickets will be available from york-unlocked.org.uk at 10am on 15th August.
Some of York’s most historic buildings will be open for everyone to visit, including the iconic Herbert House, the masonic lodge at Castlegate House, York Medical Society, the Guildhall and Bedern Hall among many others.
There are also opportunities to see how the future of York is taking shape, with architect-led tours of the Cocoa Works redevelopment at the former Rowntree Factory, and of the Coney Street Riverside Development Project. Please note that FREE pre-booked tickets are required for walking tours.
Whatever you like, the Unlocked team hope the programme will be a great way to plan your day and perhaps highlight a new area to visit and explore.
How to Get Your Copy
• Copies will be available for FREE in York Explore Library
• Visit York Information Centre will have FREE copies
• You can download a FREE digital copy direct from the website https://york-unlocked.org.uk/2025-festival/
• Or if you prefer to have a copy sent direct to your door, you can order a copy for £6 online at https://york-unlocked.org.uk/2025-festival/
Project Lead Steve Morgan said “We are thrilled to share this year’s programme for York Unlocked. We’ve secured access to some of the most exciting and interesting buildings in the city and we can’t wait for people to discover them. If you’ve ever been curious about York and its buildings, this will be the perfect weekend to visit and explore.”
This year with over 50 buildings in the weekend festival, York Unlocked has something for every taste and interest. The festival invites you to experience the city in a new light. Whether you are a long-time resident, a first-time visitor, or a returning guest, the weekend is sure to leave you inspired, informed, and more connected to the remarkable architecture and heritage that lies behind closed doors.
