York residents will soon get a rare chance to explore a normally hidden historic space in the heart of the city.
For the first time in decades, a section of York’s St Leonard’s Hospital is opening to the public.
From Monday (20 July), people will be able to step inside this usually locked space.
Found next to the city walls, the ruins are the most substantial remaining part of what was once one of the largest medieval hospitals in Northern England.
The site has been largely closed to the public since the 1970s, when it stopped being used as a tourist information centre.
St Leonard’s Hospital, York
Now, thanks to a partnership between the City of York Council, Explore York, York Museums Trust, York BID, and York Archaeology, the gates are being unlocked.
Councillor Pete Kilbane, executive member for economy and culture, said it is a fantastic opportunity for everyone to experience another example of York’s “unrivalled” history.
“It gives residents and visitors the chance to discover a space that has been out of sight for many years, while learning more about the remarkable story of our city walls and the heritage that surrounds them,” he said.
Inside the space, visitors will find special displays and information materials on loan from the Micklegate Bar City Walls Experience to help tell the story of the site.
Liam Dennis, ancient monuments manager at the council, said the ruins sit within one of the most historically significant parts of York, containing layers of Roman, medieval, and Victorian history.
What you need to know
How much is it? The space is free to enter and explore.
Where is it? Tucked between York Explore library and Museum Gardens, right next to the city walls.
When does it open? From Monday, 20 July, throughout the summer season.
He said: “Since the 1970s, the space has remained largely closed, making this summer opening a rare opportunity for people to explore an area that has sat hidden in plain sight for decades.”
The project is part of a push by Explore York to connect more people with the city’s incredible archive collections and historic spaces.
Chris Porter, head of operations at Explore York, said: “Explore York is proud to help open this previously inaccessible historic space, creating a new connection between York Explore, the Library Gardens and the City Walls.
“As custodians of the cities archive collections and many of the city’s cultural and heritage spaces, we know how important it is to connect people with York’s stories, and this project offers a unique opportunity for residents and visitors alike to discover something new.
“With more than 900,000 visits each year, we see a strong appetite for discovering York’s stories and we’re delighted to help bring this important part of the city’s heritage to a wider audience.”
