Looking for ways to use that Residents' Festival perk? This weekend is brilliant for York locals! We've skipped the big tourist traps and found the best cultural bargains, including a hands-on Viking dye workshop and discounted trips to the JORVIK Centre.
Quick Picks
York Residents' Festival: Free/Discounted Art Gallery Visit
York Art Gallery
A relaxed, indoor culture fix for all ages using your residency.
York Residents' Festival: Discounted Museum Entry
York Castle Museum
Spend hours exploring the historic Kirkgate indoors.
York Residents' Festival: Free/Discounted Art Gallery Visit
York Art Gallery
Great for younger kids (3+) looking for a calm indoor activity.
· January 31
3VIKING NORTH CREATIVE WORKSHOP: NATURAL DYEING : Get hands-on learning historical Viking crafts! This natural dyeing session is a super specific, interesting workshop—perfect if your older kids love making things.This is a hands-on, obscure Viking craft workshop, leveraging Residents' Festival access for a unique learning experience.
RESIDENTS' FESTIVAL: DISCOUNTED YORK CASTLE MUSEUM DAYFREE : Take advantage of the Residents' Festival for a bargain trip to the Castle Museum! You can explore Kirkgate and all the historical displays—great for a full day of indoor fun.Utilise your residency to explore the brilliant Victorian street scene at Kirkgate for free or less on Saturday.
RESIDENTS' FESTIVAL: DISCOUNTED YORK MINSTER ACCESSFREE : Check out the Minster on Saturday while the Residents' Festival is running for discounted entry. Lots of unique carvings inside for older kids to spot!It's a chance to explore one of York's grandest landmarks affordably—make it a treasure hunt inside!
· February 1
2RESIDENTS' FESTIVAL: FREE/DISCOUNTED ART GALLERY VISITFREE : Enjoy a relaxed Sunday afternoon exploring the collections at York Art Gallery thanks to the Residents' Festival perks. A nice, calm indoor option.It's a simple, free cultural outing that works well for younger kids (3+) on a Sunday afternoon.
RESIDENTS' FESTIVAL: DISCOUNTED JORVIK VIKING CENTRE ENTRYFREE : Sunday is the perfect time to use your discount at JORVIK! The time machine ride is always a hit with kids who love history and adventure.A classic York experience made local-friendly/affordable via the Residents' Festival discount.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any free family activities happening in York this weekend?
Yes! If you are a resident, you can take advantage of free or discounted entry at the York Castle Museum (Saturday), York Art Gallery (Sunday), and JORVIK Centre (Sunday).
What is a good hands-on workshop for older kids (8+) on Saturday?
The Viking North Creative Workshop focusing on Natural Dyeing on Saturday, January 31st, is ideal for 8-14 year olds keen on learning historical craft skills.
What's a good indoor cultural activity for younger children (under 5) this weekend?
The York Castle Museum (Saturday, 3-14 years) is great for indoor exploration, and the York Art Gallery visit (Sunday, 3-14 years) offers a calmer environment for younger ones.