York Residents’ Festival returns

York Residents' Festival returns on Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 January 2025, offering York residents free entry to the city’s top attractions, exclusive offers and unique experiences across the city.

Organised by Make It York, this much-loved event is a celebration of everything York has to offer, giving residents the chance to explore the city’s attractions, enjoy fantastic food and support local businesses. 

New this year, you can pre-book tickets online for a variety of attractions, allowing you to secure your spots ahead of the festival weekend. This includes complimentary tours of the Abbey Church at Ampleforth Abbey, where free guided tours led by a monk will reveal the fascinating architecture of this Sir Giles Gilbert Scott-designed church, and York Theatre Royaloffering free behind-the-scenes tours to this unique venue. For thrill-seekers, the York Dungeon is offering 150 free tickets across the weekend at selected times, giving residents the chance to experience its exciting and spine-chilling tour 

Pre-booking opens at 12pm on Friday 10 January. So, mark your calendar, start planning your weekend and be ready to book early for venues with limited spaces! 

With countless exclusive deals and offers, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy an unforgettable weekend in York.  

What's on  

Enjoy free entry to some of York’s most iconic attractions, including Beningbrough Hall, with its stunning gardens and exhibitions, and Merchant Adventurers’ Hall, where you can explore rare artefacts and awe-inspiring architecture. Or, take to the streets with Golden Tours York, offering free open-top bus toursexclusively for York residents throughout the weekend. Simply show your York Card at Exhibition Square to hop on for a 50-minute tour of the city, departing hourly from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. Take to the water with City Cruises, offering free cruises departing from Kings Staith or Lendal Bridge at 11:00, 12:00, 13:00, 14:00, or 15:00.  

For a day out with a difference, hop on a Mountain Goat tour of the Yorkshire Dales at an exclusive 50% off, and explore breathtaking landscapes and hidden gems with expert guides. History lovers can take part in free tours, like "York Residents: Past and Present" at Holy Trinity Goodramgate, explore the famous stained glass of All Saints North Street, or enjoy a free walking tour with the Association of Voluntary Guides to the City of York.  

For a unique experience, don’t miss the Historic Pub Walking Tour, which dives into York’s beer and pub heritage, or "In The Veins," a moving film and music event at St. Margaret’s Church. Dive deeper into York’s history with Bedern Hall, where you’ll uncover medieval stories, or explore the Clifton Hospital archaeology and archive exhibition, offering insights into mental health history, and visit Taylors Hall, a beautifully preserved medieval gem showcasing the life of tailors past. 

Step back in time at York Minster, which offers free entry year-round to York residents. Don’t forget to stop by The De Grey Rooms, the temporary home of The Belfrey, where you can explore the elegant Victorian ballroom and enjoy tea and cake for a good cause.  

For families and adventurers, there’s plenty to enjoy. Let the kids burn off some energy at Oxygen Activeplay York, with 15% off climbing, jumping, and exploring. For thrilling outdoor adventures, head over to Lost Earth Adventures where you can defy gravity and try rock climbing.  

Food lovers can enjoy exclusive discounts at some of York’s most-loved venues. Treat yourself to 10% off at Love Cheese and The Speakcheesey, 25% off dining at Rio Steakhouse, or take advantage of family-friendly offers like kids eat free and a free drinkwith a meal at Pho. Chocolate fans can visit York Cocoa Works to create their own 30g chocolate bar for free during special workshops, or enjoy buy one get one free milkshakes at Loopy Scoops Ice Cream Parlour. Gin enthusiasts can visit York Gin, with 10% off in their shops and two-for-one tastings or experience vouchers available during the festival. 

Live from Friday 10 January 

The list of offers will go live at visityork.org/resfest on Friday 10 January from 12pm. Make sure to check the website regularly, as new offers and additional tickets will be added over the coming weeks. 

How to take part 

To take advantage of the offers, please present a valid York Card, student card or identity card that proves your York residency. If presenting an identity card, this must clearly state 'York' (e.g. driving licence or older person's bus pass). 

The York Card is available to all who live or work within the York area. The York Card costs £6 for adult residents or £10 for non-residents who work in the city, and free to children and young people up to the age of 18. It's valid for 12 months and is available to purchase as a digital card online or at any Explore library. 

Sarah Loftus, Managing Director of Make It York, said: "York Residents’ Festival is the perfect opportunity to rediscover your own city with exclusive offers, free tickets, and unforgettable experiences that showcase our amazing city. Make the most of this special weekend and explore everything on offer - don’t miss out!".