October 2026
 Saturday 3rd & Sunday 4th

Experience familiar places through fresh eyes and uncover hidden treasures

St Mary's Tower Queue of visitors attending open house event in York

York Unlocked opens the most interesting and significant buildings in York to the public completely for free. It’s a weekend festival that allows residents and visitors to see York in a new way, and aims to educate and inspire a love of architecture.   

This year the event will be on Saturday 3rd and Sunday 4th October 2026.

York Unlocked is inspired by the success of Doors Open Days and Open House events across the UK and Europe.

Donations welcome

York Unlocked is managed by a small team of volunteers, your support is greatly appreciated.
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We aim to educate and inspire discussions on the value of architecture and urban design

Read more about us

  • Although I live in York my mobility is very bad so I was so pleased (to attend) these tours. … enabling me to go to places and experience things I couldn’t otherwise do

    2023 LIVESTEAM VIEWER

  • Thoroughly enjoyed last year's York Unlocked. My friend cited it as one of the best days of her life!

    - 2023 FESTIVAL VISTOR

  • Thanks York Unlocked for brilliant event. We had such a great time...

    2023 FESTIVAL VISTOR

  • …the volunteer door staff at King’s Manor, Herbert House and the De Grey Rooms… were all amazingly helpful…

    2023 Attendee

  • I thoroughly enjoyed volunteering at the last event and can't wait to do it again!

    2023 Event Steward