Summer at York Castle Museum 2026

Summer at York Castle Museum

22 June – 6 September 2026 | Book Tickets

This summer, experience a grand day out reminiscent of York’s iconic summers across two centuries.

From the Victorian York Gala, an annual tradition for 60 years, to the swinging Sixties, a pivotal decade for the city, our programme will immerse you in history and nostalgia filled with entertainers, games and crafts, music, floral displays and seasonal decor.

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What’s On

All summer activities and experiences are suitable for all ages and included in general admission.

Castle Kitchen
Every Saturday from 27 June – 25 July, then every Wednesday and Saturday from 29 July – 5 September 2026
Drop-in between 10.30am – 4pm
Come watch our cookery demonstrations throughout the day of Mrs Beeton’s picnic recipes including Balmoral tarts, Sponge Cake, Tea Cream and Apple Cheesecake.

Creative Families
Every Saturday from 18 July – 29 August 2026
Drop in between 10.30am – 3.30pm
Join artist Lendita, for a fun, family workshop inspired by the Victorian York Gala. Surrounded by a themed paper-cut installation, created by Yorkshire artist Pippa Dyrlaga, you’ll make a colourful hot air balloon creation.

Gala Street Performance
Every Tuesday from 21 July – 25 August 2026
Performances throughout the day
The spirit of York Gala arrives on Kirkgate with live entertainment and performances. Expect fun, laughter and Victorian-inspired acts!

Sounds of the Sixties
Every Saturday from 25 July – 22 August 2026
Performances throughout the day
Take a trip back to the swinging sixties as live music fills the Sixties Street with the soundtrack of a generation. From folk favourites to chart-topping classics, experience the music that defined a decade.

Daily activities:

Retro Games and Toys
Drop-in, self-led activity
Set up friendly challenges and play with friends, family and other visitors with our retro games and toys available in the Exercise Yard and Sixties Street.

Sugar, Skill and Shiftwork Sensory Stations
Drop-in, self-led activity
Experience our community exhibition Sugar, Skill and Shiftwork in a whole new way with our sensory stations throughout, allowing you to experience the sights, smells, noises and taste of York’s chocolate factories.

Creative Studio
Drop-in, self-led activity
Sketch out your dream Victorian outfit using the fabrics, hats, shoes and dresses on display for inspiration in the Creative Studio, just off the Secrets of Dress exhibition.

Little Spotters
Self-led activity
Recommended for under 10s
Collect a Little Spotters activity sheet, available in the Secrets of Dress exhibition, and explore historic fashion items on display. There’s also a colouring sheet on the back for you to complete during your visit, or to take home.

Cells Talks
11.30am and 2.30pm
Discover the history of York Castle prison and some of its notorious inmates.

Kirkgate Talks
11.30am and 2pm
Learn about the creation of the Victorian street, Kirkgate, one of the oldest recreated indoor streets of its kind in the world.

Time Traveller’s Activity Trail
Self-led activity
Explore York Castle Museum and discover fascinating stories and facts about some of the historical objects on display with our interactive trail booklet, collect one from the admissions desk.