You can take a look inside two newly refurbished historic locations in York in special open day.
York Unlocked, the annual festival that opens up some of the city’s significant buildings that are normally closed to the public, has teamed up with York Conservation Trust for a free open day this spring.
Taking place on Saturday 9 May, from 10am to 3pm, the event will offer visitors the opportunity to step inside 60 Goodramgate and 77 Walmgate following extensive refurbishment.
The event marks the Trust’s 50th anniversary as a charity.
Herbert House will also be open and will host a heritage craft demonstration during the day.
As part of York Conservation Trust’s milestone anniversary year, the openings provide a rare chance to explore the properties and experience first-hand the impact of conservation and refurbishment in maintaining York’s distinctive built environment.
60 Goodramgate
Set on the boundary of the ancient medieval church of Holy Trinity, 60 Goodramgate was rebuilt as a three storey brick house in around 1790.
Work by York Conservation Trust confirmed that it was originally part of the internationally important Lady Row, some of the earliest surviving homes in England.
Internally, the main building retains much of its medieval structure with dragon beams, corbels and jettying all now revealed.
77 Walmgate
Number 77 Walmgate is a medieval timber framed building, with one 15th century wing and another dating from from the 16th century.
Little is known about the site’s early history. The ground floor front wall and east gable were rebuilt in brick, with a rear extension added in the 18th century.
The earliest record for the site is the 1841 census, which lists the occupants as John Thompson, coach lace and fringe manufacturer. After a time as home to two shops, it is now a family home again.
Celebrating city heritage
Together, the three buildings highlight different periods of York’s architectural heritage and celebrate the importance of opening historic spaces to the public.
Entry is free of charge, and no tickets are required. However, due to capacity limitations within the buildings, visitors may be asked to queue at busy times.
Matt McCormack-Evans, chair of York Unlocked, said: “This event is a fantastic opportunity to showcase the work of York Conservation Trust over the past 50 years.
“Opening these buildings after refurbishment allows visitors to appreciate both the finished spaces and the expertise involved in preserving York’s architectural heritage.”
This open day event forms part of the York Unlocked wider programme for the year, ahead of the main festival weekend on Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 October 2026.
Find out more about York Unlocked at their website here.
