York Unlocked Returns in 2026 with Autumn Festival

About

York Unlocked has confirmed the return of its annual festival, taking place on Saturday 3rd and Sunday 4th October 2026. The much-anticipated event will once again invite visitors to explore the city’s architecture and urban design through a curated programme of activities, all offered free of charge.

A Curated Approach to Architecture and Design

Now entering its fifth year, York Unlocked continues to evolve its offering with a more focused and carefully curated format. The two-day festival is designed to provide a high-quality visitor experience while highlighting a distinctive selection of York’s most notable buildings and spaces.

• Access to unique and architecturally significant locations
• A carefully selected programme for enhanced visitor experience
• Opportunities to explore York from a new perspective

Opening Doors to York’s Hidden Spaces

Since its launch in 2022, York Unlocked has welcomed thousands of visitors, offering access to spaces that are often closed to the public. Organised entirely by volunteers, the festival continues to build on its reputation for showcasing the city’s built environment in an engaging and accessible way.

The 2026 Autumn Festival will feature a variety of venues across the city, celebrating both historic and contemporary architecture. The event remains committed to working closely with venue partners to deliver a diverse and insightful programme.

Community-Led and Volunteer Driven

York Unlocked is delivered by a dedicated team of volunteers who play a vital role in bringing the festival to life. Their continued efforts ensure that visitors can enjoy meaningful access to York’s architectural heritage without cost.

Matt McCormack-Evans, Chair of York Unlocked, commented that the festival continues to focus on helping people experience the city in new ways, with the 2026 programme designed to showcase a selection of spaces in a thoughtful and engaging format.

Year-Round Engagement

In addition to the main Autumn Festival, York Unlocked will host a small number of one-off events and guided tours throughout the year. These activities aim to maintain engagement with both residents and visitors, encouraging ongoing interest in York’s built environment.