15/12/2011

Celebrating 800 years of York's official city status, York's residents are in for a real treat at the 2012 annual Residents Festival: meet with York's Merchant Taylors, dressed in traditional robes; York Minster invites you to make your very own Charter for your home; meet the team who work for the most significant city archives outside of London or join a walking tour with Exploring York and discover how York's Royal Charter changed the city forever and find out how the Lord Mayors of York have influenced the city over the past 800 years.

30,000 York residents took part in the annual festival last year and the event is organised by Visit York as a thank you to the locals of York for the warm welcome they give to the city's seven million annual visitors. Supported by the City of York Council and sponsored by Coles Solicitors of Micklegate, the festival will run during 28th and 29th January. This year Visit York can proudly announce that all of the attractions and events taking part are offering free access and food lovers will find a range of restaurant deals on offer. With over fifty offers, tours and visitor attractions on offer, including the brand new York Wheel, York's restaurants, visitor attractions and hotels are all working together to provide the best line up yet for the 2012 Residents Festival.

Gillian Cruddas MBE, Chief Executive of Visit York said, ‘The warm welcome residents give to York's visitors is vitally important for the tourism economy. This is our way of saying a big thank you for the very important role residents play in ensuring York's reputation as one of the friendliest cities to visit in Britain.' As well as marking the beginning of the York 800 celebrations, a raft of new offers has been added this year including:

Behind the scenes tours at BBC Radio York, a seven metre high climbing wall provided by Energise Leisure Centre in Parliament Street, a ‘famous York residents' exhibition and family learning trail at Explore library, a Fishergate Postern tour with the Friends of York Walls, free Sunday swimming at Yearsley Pool, a photographs and ceramics exhibition at the New Schoolhouse Gallery, chocolate sampling and workshops at the new York Cocoa House, a talk about York's chocolate history at the Mansion House, Mystery Plays activities for the family, star gazing at the York Observatory, a chance to discover York Minster's gruesome gargoyles and grotesques, York tours by bike with Scoot Cycling Holidays, Town and Country walks and last but not least a Vintage Bunting Making workshop at the Pitcher and Piano.

To celebrate seventeen years of the Festival, this year residents are also being invited to take part in a brand new chocolate competition. The lucky winners will receive one of 20 pairs of tickets for York's delicious new attraction. For your chance to win, tell Visit York in no more than 100 words why you would like to be one of the very first people to step inside ‘Chocolate - York's Sweet Story'. Residents can email their entries to lmckenzie@yorkchocolatestory.com.

Attractions opening their doors free to residents over the festival include; the Yorkshire Museum, York Art Gallery, Barley Hall, the Quilt Museum and Gallery, the National Railway Museum, DIG, the Jorvik Centre, York Dungeon, York Army Museum and the Richard III Museum to name just a few. Outside the city with free admission over the weekend *Castle Howard is offering exhilarating walks in the grounds of this wonderful estate and Beningbrough Hall hopes to entice visitors to its National Portrait Galleries. (*Castle Howard Gardens only).

Pre-booking is required for some of the attractions and guided tours, details of which can be found on the Visit York website at www.visityork.org  or by picking up a Residents Festival leaflet from the Visit York Information Centre at 1 Museum Street. Due to changes in the Yorkcard residents need to apply for a new card to gain admission at each participating venue, available from all of York's public libraries. The new YorkCards have a £2.00 admin charge for adults but are free for residents aged under 18. The YorkCard also entitles you to free entry to The Castle Museum and The Yorkshire Museum plus discounted entry to York Dungeon as well as Energise and Yearsley Swimming Pool. Make sure you update your Yorkcard in order to take part. ENDS

For further information please contact:
Kay Hyde - PR Manager - Visit York
Direct Line: 01904 554451
Mobile: 07961 828092
Email: kh@visityork.org

Katie Porter - PR Executive - Visit York
Direct Line: 01904 554436
Email: kp@visityork.org

Visit York

• Visit York works in partnership with Welcome to Yorkshire, City of York Council and tourism businesses. Welcome to Yorkshire is charged with improving the Yorkshire and Humber visitor economy.

• Visit York's aim is to market York as a must-see world-class destination to the leisure and business visitor, and ensure investment to develop the quality of tourism in York. Visit York is responsible for leisure and conference marketing, visitor services (running the city's Visitor Information Centre), training and developing the tourism product.

• Visit York is the driving force of the city's tourism industry. Key facts:
7.1 million visitors
£443 million total visitor spend
23,000 jobs

Attractions, events and exhibitions

All Saints Church
North Street, 01904 728122
Saturday 28 January, 10am
Guided tour of the world famous medieval stained glass.
11.15am
Guided tour of the archaeology and medieval visions of All Saints Church
5pm
"The magic of Christmas" with Latin Vespers for Candlemas and dazzling illuminations of the church building and stained glass by visions of York www.visions-york.org
Pre-booking is not required.

The Bar Convent
Blossom Street, 01904 643238
Saturday 28 January, 10am-4pm
York's hidden gem, established in 1686. Visit the free museum and fabulous café.
Pre-booking is not required.

Barley Hall
2 Coffee Yard, off Stonegate, 01904 615505
Saturday 28 & Sunday 29 January, 10am-5pm (last admission 4pm)
Discover the medieval townhouse of the Priors of Nostell and Mayor of York.
Pre-booking is not required.

New
Behind the scenes at BBC Radio York
Broadcasting House, 20 Bootham Row, 01904 641351
Saturday 28 & Sunday 29 January, 10am-4pm
A chance to see behind the scenes at BBC Radio York and meet the team who bring you everything you need to know about York and North Yorkshire on 103.7FM. Studio tours running throughout the day.
Pre-booking is essential, due to limited availability. Contact BBC Radio York on the number above between 9am and 1pm weekdays from 3 January.

Bedern Hall York 800 themed
Bedern, 01904 653698
Sunday 29 January, 10.30am-4.30pm
3 of York's ancient Guilds provide an insight into how their history has shaped the City over the centuries. The Gild of Freemen will help you trace your family tree, find out what a Cordwainer does and the Guild of Building will show how their craft still helps our City grow today.
Pre-booking is not required.

Beningbrough Hall & Gardens
Signposted off A19 & A59, 7 miles NW of York, 01904 472027
Saturday 28 & Sunday 29 January, 11am - 3.30pm
Beningbrough Hall and Gardens is a relaxed and friendly Georgian Mansion, with interactive national portrait galleries, and a working walled garden as well as a restaurant and shop.
Pre-booking is not required.

Black Swan Folk Club
The Black Swan Inn, Peasholme Green, 01904 632922
Sunday 29 January, 2pm - 6pm
Live entertainment from some of the talented singers associated with York's award winning Black Swan Folk Club.
Pre-booking is not required.

Castle Howard
Nr Malton, 01653 648333
Saturday 28 & Sunday 29 January, 10am-4pm
Free admission to Castle Howard grounds & adventure playground, plus 10% discount in the farm shop, gift shop and cafés.
Please note the house will not be open.
Pre-booking is not required.

Central Methodist Church
St Saviourgate, 01904 612171
Saturday 28 January, 11am - 4pm & Sunday 29 January, 1pm - 4pm
Built in 1840 as a Centenary Wesleyan Chapel, the Central Methodist Church is a Grade II* listed building and one of the few chapels of its period which still remain.
Pre-booking is not required.

Clifford's Tower
Tower Street, 01904 646940
Saturday 28 & Sunday 29 January, 10am - 4pm
Enjoy the best views of historic York and get stuck in and hands-on with history at Clifford's Tower. 100 free tickets are available on 28 and 29 January from the Visit York Information Centre at 1 Museum Street. Otherwise, residents presenting a Yorkcard will be able to gain entrance for just £1 per person.

DIG - An Archaeological Adventure
St Saviourgate, 01904 615505
Saturday 28 & Sunday 29 January, 10am-4pm (each tour lasts 30 minutes)
Grab a trowel and get your hands dirty, whist going on a fascinating archaeological exploration of Roman, Viking, Medieval and Victorian artefacts.
Pre-booking is essential, due to limited availability.

Eden Camp Modern History Museum
Nr Malton, 01653 697777
Saturday 28 & Sunday 29 January, 10am - 5pm (last admission 4pm)
Housed in the buildings and grounds of an original prisoner of war camp, a visit to this multi-award winning museum transports visitors back to experience the sights, sounds, and smells of life on the home front and front line during World War 2.
Pre-booking is not required.

New
Energise
Cornlands Road, 01904 552424
Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 January, Free swimming only on Sunday, 4pm - 6pm
A 7m high mobile climbing wall will be available for try-climbs in the city centre on Saturday and Sunday. In addition to that, enjoy a free swim at York's newest swimming pool from 4pm on Sunday afternoon. For timetables and information about all activities available visit www.energiseyork.com
Pre-booking is not required.

New
Explore York Library and Learning Centre
Museum Street, 01904 552828
Saturday 28 January, 9am-5pm & Sunday 29 January 11am-4pm
York Explore invites you to come along to this special exhibition and discover a whole host of famous York residents, past and present. From Eric Bloodaxe, Viking king of York, to little-known inventor and architect Joseph Hansom and Roman emperor Constantine to author Kate Atkinson. Discover the past history of Cravens sweets while sampling the delights of a sweet making demonstration from its new owners, Tangerine. View the exhibition, complete a quiz, stay for a chocolate treat in the café and choose a book from the hundreds of new titles added to stock during Residents Festival weekend.
Pre-booking is not required.

F1 Racing
JMD Raceway, Monks Cross, 01904 673555
Friday 27 January, 1pm-8pm
Free 10 lap drive or 5 minute Kub Kart session. Age and height restrictions apply.
No pre-booking permitted, sessions are subject to availability. All weekend visitors will receive a £5 voucher for a discount against a future event.
1pm-3pm & 5pm-7.45pm - Adults 16 yrs and over a free 10 lap session
4pm-5pm - Younger drivers aged 10-15 yrs a free 10 lap session
3pm-4pm - Children aged 4-10yrs a free 5 minute session in a Kub Kart
All of the above are subject to normal restrictions and abilities, see www.karting.uk.com/formula for further details. For full terms and conditions of this offer, please see www.visityork.org

New
Family Learning Number Trail
Starts and finishes at York Explore Library and Learning Centre
Saturday 28 & Sunday 29 January, available during York Explore Library opening times.
Have a go at a number trail around York, starting and finishing at York Explore. Hand in your completed trail to be entered into a prize draw.
The trail lasts for approximately 1 hour. Minimum 1 adult and 1 primary school aged child per group.
Pre-booking is not required.

New
The Friends of York Walls - Fishergate Postern Tour
Fishergate Postern Tower, 01904 337308
Saturday 28 & Sunday 29 January, 11am-3pm
Visit Fishergate Postern Tower for a talk and inspection tour lead by the Friends of York Walls and enjoy a brief history and tour before hearing about the plans for its development and the work of the Friends of York Walls.
Pre-booking is not required.

Haunted
35 Stonegate, 01904 541779
Monday 30 January - Friday 3 February, 10.30am-5pm
A real haunted house, over 700 years old. Last entry is 30 minutes before close. Not suited to those with limited mobility.
Pre-booing is not required.

Jorvik Viking Centre
Coppergate, 01904 615505
Saturday 28 & Sunday 29 January, 4pm-6pm
Whether it has been five or fifteen years, or even your first time visiting, the Jorvik Viking Centre has something new for everyone. Late afternoon opening 4pm-6pm.
Pre-booking is not required.

New
Kentmere House
53 Scarcroft Hill, 01904 656507
Saturday 28 & Sunday 29 January, 11am-5pm
Gallery showing exciting and original paintings by local and regional artists.

Merchant Adventurers' Hall
Fossgate, 01904 654818
Saturday 28 January, 9am-3.30pm
The Merchant Adventurers' Hall is one of York's medieval marvels. Built in 1357, the Hall is set in beautiful gardens and is open to the public as a museum, wedding and hospitality venue and meeting place. This is a fantastic opportunity to explore a building which has been part of York life for over 650 years.
Pre-booking not required.

New
Merchant Taylors Hall - York 800 themed
Aldwark, 07411 173815
Sunday 29 January, 11am-4pm
Visit the company of Merchant Taylors at their magnificent medieval hall in Aldwark. Meet with current members of the Guild of Merchant Taylors to hear about the company's history and see the Hall's splendid features. Light refreshments available.
Pre-booking is not required.

Micklegate Bar Museum
Micklegate, 01904 615505
Saturday 28 & Sunday 29 January, 10am-4pm (last admission 3pm)
Visit the ancient gateway to explore the pageantry and barbaric history that has unfolded here through the centuries. Open subject to weather conditions.
Pre-booking is not required.

My Open Weekend 2012
Millers Yard, off Gillygate, 01904 655550
Saturday 28 January & Sunday 29 January, see website for class times.
A full weekend of talks, classes, information and taster massage treatments for the York community and for all ages. A great opportunity to try lots of things out for free! Plus free coffee tasting on Saturday afternoon. See www.millersyard.co.uk for full programme details.
Pre-booking is not required.

Mystery Plays Memories
York Explore
Saturday 28 & Sunday 29 January, 10am-12pm & 1pm-3pm
York College Media students are filming a documentary about the making of the Mystery Plays 2012. If you have been involved in previous productions of the Mystery Plays in the city, come along to recount your stories/memories and play your part in this interesting film. This project is part-financed by the European Union.
Pre-booking is not required.

York College Mystery Plays Experience ‘Have a go' Workshops
The Yorkshire Museum
Saturday 28 & Sunday 29 January, 10am-12pm & 1pm-3pm
‘Have a go at Media Make-up'
York College Media Make-up tutors and students demonstrate theatrical and special effects make-up techniques for the Mystery Plays.
Saturday: angels and demons, and the application of facial hair.
Sunday: cuts and scars - the injuries of Christ and burns from hell.
‘Have a go at Prop Making'
Mask making for the Mystery Plays.
‘Have a go at Biblical Crafts - Stonemasonry'
Watch and learn more about the biblical craft of stonemasonry with York College, a key partner in the York Mystery Plays.
‘Have a go at Biblical Crafts - Carpentry'
Try your hand at making medieval artefacts in Carpentry for the Mystery Plays.
This project is part-financed by the European Union.
These projects have been part-financed by the European Union.
Pre-booking is not required.

York College Mystery Plays Experience ‘Ye Olde Medieval Dance Flashmob'
Parliament Street, Museum Gardens & St Helen's Square
Saturday 28 & Sunday 29 January, impromptu timings over the weekend
Watch out for York College Performing Arts students as they lead the residents of York in a medieval dance flashmob, all in the spirit of the York Mystery Plays. Don't be shy, join in!. This project is part-financed by the European Union.

National Railway Museum
Leeman Road, 0844 815 3139
Saturday 28 & Sunday 29 January, 10am - 6pm
Get up close to iconic locomotives and carriages, from record breakers to history makers at the greatest railway museum in the world.
Pre-booking is not required.

The New School House Gallery
Peasholme Green, 01904 653603
Saturday 28 January, 10am-5pm
Allowed Voices - This ambitious multi-disciplinary exhibition includes photographs from Matt Writtle's acclaimed 'Portraits for Posterity' series; new ceramic work by Professor Stephen Dixon on the theme of prisoners of conscience; and 'The Defender's Voice', a new digital commission by Paula Jackson and Robert Teed.
Pre-booking is not required.

Richard III Museum
Monk Bar, 01904 634191
Saturday 28 & Sunday 29 January, 9.30am-4pm
Richard III, an evil hunchbacked monster, guilty of the murders of the ‘princess in the tower'? Or just a loyal and effective King, maligned by biased historians? Decide for yourself in a superbly reconstructed modern day trial, presenting the case both for and against the notorious monarch.
Pre-booking not required.

The Wheel of York
The Royal York Hotel, Station Road
Sunday 29 January, 9am - 12pm
See spectacular views of the city of York from the Wheel of York. One complimentary standard wheel ticket, permitted per YorkCard holder.
Pre-booking is not required.

New
Yearsley Swimming Pool
Hayley's Terrace, Haxby Road, 01904 552424
Sunday 29 January, 1.45pm - 7.30pm
Enjoy free Sunday afternoon swimming at Yearsley Pool. This offer includes all open swim sessions, waterfun and aquafit. So if you've never experienced this Edwardian Pool now's the time to try it! See timetable for details at www.york.gov.uk/fit.
Pre-booking is not required.

York Army Museum
3 Tower Street, 01904 461010
Saturday 28 & Sunday 29 January, 10am - 4.30pm
The joint Regimental Museum features the pageantry and history surrounding two famous regiments.
Pre-booking is not required.

York Art Gallery
Exhibition Square, 01904 697979
Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 January, 10am - 5pm
York Art Gallery's nationally acclaimed permanent collection represents over 600 years of British and European art. From 14th century Italian panels and 17th century Dutch masterpieces to Victorian narrative paintings and 20th century works by LS Lowry and David Hockney.
Pre-booking is not required.

York Art Gallery
Exhibition Square, 01904 650333
Saturday 28 January, 11am - 1pm and 2pm - 4pm
Discover your creativity in an art workshop under the gentle guidance of artist Jake Attree.
Pre-booking is essential, due to limited availability.

York Cemetery
Cemetery Road, 01904 610587
Sunday 29 January, 10am-4pm
York Cemetery open day. Visit the Catacombs, take a stroll in the garden and see the genealogists in action.
Pre-booking not required.

New
York Cocoa House
3 Blake Street, 01904 675787
Saturday 28 January, 10am-6pm & Sunday 29 January 11am-5pm
At York Cocoa House we look forward to welcoming you to sample our special traditional confectionery recipes. Also running over the weekend - Create your own chocolate masterpiece at our chocolate table. Whilst at the Mansion House, uncover York's Chocolate history with our hands on confectionery making workshop and tasting activities.

York Cocoa House, York and the confectionery industry - hands on making workshop
York Mansion House
Saturday 29 January, 11am
Pre-booking is essential, due to limited availability. Book your ticket at the Visit York Information Centre at 1 Museum Street.

York Cocoa House, York's Chocolate History - tasting event
York Mansion House,
Sunday 29 January, 7pm
Pre-booking is essential, due to limited availability. Book your ticket at the Visit York Information Centre at 1 Museum Street.

New
York Does Vintage - Bunting Making Workshop
Upstairs in Pitcher and Piano, 01904 448210 or 07896840397
Sunday 29 January, 11am - 1pm & 1.30pm - 3.30pm
York Does Vintage presents a vintage inspired bunting workshop. Rummage through a selection of vintage fabrics, buttons, and haberdashery and enjoy a good natter while you busy away making bunting fit for a royal street party.
Pre-booking is required, email nowandthenevents@gmail.com  or call the number above.

York Glaziers Trust - Bedern Studio
Deangate, 0844 939 0015
Saturday 28 & Sunday 29 January, 10am, 11.30am, 1.30pm and 3pm (tours last 30 minutes)
Visit Bedern Glaziers' Studio for a once in a lifetime opportunity to get up close with the Great East Window. You will be able to see Conservators at work on the early 15th Century window which depicts the Apocalypse, the beginning and end of all things.
Pre-booking is essential, due to limited availability. Book at the Minster box office or call the number above.

York Minster
0844 939 0011
Saturday 28 January 9.30am-5pm & 29 January 12.30pm-5pm
Explore one of the greatest European works of art, an inspiring masterpiece of glass and stone. Experience the beauty of the Quire and Chapter House. (Charges apply to climb the Central Tower). With a Minster Card the Minster is free all year round to York residents.
Pre-booking is not required.

New
York Minster "Monsters, Mermaids and Mouth Pullers"
0844 939 0015
Saturday 28 January 10am-11.30am & 2pm-3.30pm
Monsters, Mermaids and Mouth-pullers. Discover York Minster's gruesome gargoyles and grotesques through fun family hands on activities.
Pre-booking is essential, due to limited availability. Book at the Minster box office or call the number above.

New
York Minster "Make Your Own Charter" York 800 themed
Old Palace, Home of York Minster's Historic Collections, 0844 939 0015
Saturday 28 January, 10am
Make your very own charter to take home. You will decide on your own charter rules, design a seal and decorate with Illuminated letters. The whole family can get involved and at the end you will have your charter witnessed and authorised.
Pre-booking is essential, due to limited availability. Book at the Minster box office or call the number above.

New
York Mystery Plays
NB Awaiting Copy for all Mystery plays activities as below:

Media make-up
Have a go workshop

Fashion Design and Costume
Have a go workshop

Biblical Trades demonstration and - Masonry, Carpentry
Opportunity to have a go

Flash mob Choirs
Awaiting copy

The Quilt Museum and Gallery
St Anthony's Hall, Peasholme Green, 01904 613242
Saturday 28 January, 10am - 4pm (last admission 3.30pm)
The museum has a unique collection of quilts and textiles dating from the early 1700's to the present day. The current exhibitions, housed in the historic St Anthony's Hall, cover the changing fortunes of quilt making in the twentieth century along with more contemporary work.
Pre-booking is not required.

New
York Archives and Local History Service York 800 themed
Explore York Library and Learning Centre, 01904 552828
Saturday 28 January, 2pm and 3.30pm
"The most significant archive outside London" Older than the Minster and older than the City Walls, the city archive is the original evidence for how York's people have run their city for the last 800 years. To mark York 800, Richard Taylor, Archives Manager for City of York Council, will introduce you to the story of the archive and give hands-on access to some of its treasures - from King Henry II to Mr Micawber.
Pre-booking is essential due to limited availability. Book at Explore York Library & Learning Centre enquiry desk.

York Castle Museum
The Eye of York, 01904 687687
Saturday 28 & Sunday 29 January, 9.30am-5pm
Take a tantalising trip through time as you step into the world famous recreated street, Kirkgate. Experience the sights and sounds of Victorian Britain and meet the fascinating folk who work in the shops.

The York Dungeon
12 Clifford Street, 01904 632599
Saturday 28 January - Sunday 5 February
York Dungeon invites you to a unique feast of fun with history's horrible bits. Residents must hold one York card per person in order to gain entry. Children under 16yrs must be accompanied by an adult. Visit www.thedungeons.com for information about opening times.
Pre-booking is not required.

Yorkshire Air Museum
Elvington, 01904 608595
Saturday 28 & Sunday 29 January, 10am-4pm
A great opportunity for York residents to catch up on the latest developments at the award winning Yorkshire Air Museum. Get close to many historic aircraft and enjoy fascinating exhibitions and discover Yorkshire's aviation history.
Pre-booking is not required.

The Yorkshire Museum
Museum Gardens, 01904 687687
Saturday 28 & Sunday 29 January, 10am-5pm
From pre-history to the city's medieval splendour, this amazing place tells the whole story in its fantastic galleries. Walk on a genuine Roman mosaic floor, kneel at St William's medieval shrine and see the monsters of the deep that swam beneath the sea- and all in the heart of the city
Pre-booking is not required.

New
York Observatory
The Museum Gardens, 01904 650333
Saturday 28 January, 11am-2.30pm
A chance to look inside the oldest working observatory in Yorkshire. Pre-booking is not required.
6pm-7pm & 7.15pm-8.15pm
Gaze at the stars through the historic Thomas Cooke telescope.
Pre-booking is essential.

York Unitarians at St Saviourgate Unitarian Chapel
St Saviourgate, off Colliergate, 01904 693427
Saturday 28 January, 10am - 4pm
Sunday 29 January, service at 11am and open to the public 12.30pm - 4pm
Built in 1692, St Saviourgate Unitarian Chapel is thought to be the earliest load-bearing brick building, the oldest surviving nonconformist chapel in York and the only chapel in England with equal ‘arms'.
Pre-booking is not required.

Tours and Walks

Association of Voluntary Guides
Meet at Exhibition Square
Saturday 28 & Sunday 29 January, 10.15am & 1.15pm
Two hour historical walking tour of the city.
Pre-booking is not required.

New
Bedern Hall Guilds - Guided Walk York 800 themed
Start and Finish at Bedern Hall, 07749 269435
Sunday 29 January, 10.30am, 12.30pm and 2.30pm
Meet your Cordwainer guide at Bedern Hall for a guided tour to discover the medieval Guild Halls of the City and to see the areas where different trades lived and worked. Based on Benedict Horsley's Ichnography of York dated 1694.
Pre-booking is not essential, but if you would like to reserve a place, call the number above.

The Cedar Court Grand Hotel and Spa
Station Rise, 01904 380038
Saturday 28 & Sunday 29 January, 10.30am & 3pm
York's first five star hotel is opening its doors to give you a guided tour. Take a look around this iconic building which was once the headquarters of the North Eastern Railway and see how it has been turned into a luxury hotel following its £25M renovation. Take away a little bit of history with your very own memorabilia book which guides you through the journey of this building. Pre-booking is not required.

New
Exploring York York 800 themed
Meet at St Helen's Square, info@exploringyork.com, 07981 242764
Saturday 28 & Sunday 29 January, 11am & 2pm (90 minutes duration)
Discover how York's Royal Charter changed the city forever on this fascinating walking tour through York's cobbled streets and Georgian avenues. Hear the stories of trade, Medieval Guilds, royalty and religion, fraud, poverty and find out how the Lord Mayors of York have influenced the city over the past 800 years.
Pre-booking is required.

Ghost Hunt of York
Walk starts at the Shambles
Saturday 28 & Sunday 29 January, 7.30pm
50 free tickets available every evening, call into the Visit York Information Centre to collect your ticket.

The Ghost Trail of York
Meet at the West Doors of York Minster, 01904 633276
Saturday 28 January, 6pm (duration 70 minutes)
A fun, family, friendly evening walk around the ancient heart of York. Dare you travel back in time across centuries and experience the spine tingling stories of York's ghostly tradition? You will laugh, you will scream, you will never forget!
Pre-booking is not required.

New
Scoot Cycling Holidays
River Path by Memorial Gardens / York City Rowing Club, 01904 720003
Saturday 28 & Sunday 29 January, 10am & 12.30pm
Discover York! York is shaped by its history and what its residents have done over time. 2 hour tour by bike. Bikes (sized to suit) and equipment provided.
Pre-booking is essential, due to limited availability. Book by calling the number above and be ready to tell us the height of the participants.

New
Town and Country Walk
Meet at the garage, junction of Hull Rd (A1079) and Melrosegate, 01904 488552
Saturday 28 January, 10.30am
Gentle 8 mile walk starting within half a mile of the City Walls and exploring rural parts of York. Discover St Nicholas Field environmental centre, Osbaldwick Beck, Tang Hall Beck, and a small nature area and tread on an old railway line now used as a cycle track.
Bring a packed lunch.
Pre-booking is not required.

Yorkboat
Lendal Bridge and Kings Staith Landings, 01904 628324
Saturday 28 & Sunday 29 January, 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm & 3pm
Daytime York city cruise (30 minutes). See York from a different perspective onboard a YorkBoat cruise. Sit back, relax, and enjoy a drink from the bar whilst listening to the Captain's live commentary.
Pre-booking is not required.

York Cold War Bunker
Monument Close, off Acomb Road, 01904 646940
Friday 27 & Saturday 28 January, 10am - 3pm (tours last 30 minutes)
As the most modern and spine chilling of English Heritage's properties, the York Cold War Bunker uncovers the secret history of Britain's Cold War. Take a tour round this unusual tourist attraction. The first 20 people to book on a tour each day get in free. Otherwise residents presenting a Yorkcard will be able to gain entrance for just £2 per person.
Pre-booking essential, due to limited availability. Book by calling the number above from 21 January.

York Theatre Royal
St Leonard's Place, 01904 623568
Sunday 29 January, 12pm - 4pm (tours every 30 minutes)
See backstage York Theatre Royal whilst the Pantomine set is still up. If you've ever wanted to tread the boards now is your chance! Plus learn about the rich and interesting history of the building.
Pre-booking is required. Reserve your place at the Theatre Royal Box Office, in person or by telephone

YorkWalk
Walks start at museum garden gates on Museum Street, 01904 622303
Saturday 28 & Sunday 29 January, 10.30am and 2.15pm (walks last about 90 minutes)
Saturday 10.30am ‘Essential York' and ‘The Walls & Snickleways', 2.15pm ‘Secret York'.
Sunday 10.30am ‘Essential York', 2.15pm ‘Snickelways'.
Pre-booking is not required.

Other activities taking place later in the Year

Fairfax House
Castlegate, 01904 655543
Saturday 5 May, 10am - 4.30pm & Sunday 6 May, 12.30pm-3.30pm
The finest Georgian townhouse in England will open its doors free to residents in May. Come and unlock the splendour within this beautiful building and experience for yourself what makes Fairfax House.
Pre-booking is not required.

Yorkshire Museum of Farming
Murton Park, Murton, 01904 489966
Saturday 3 & Sunday 4 November 2012, 10am-5pm
The Museum is closed for the winter season during the Festival, but York residents will have the chance to visit the museum free of charge on Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 November 2012, during normal opening hours. Pre-booking is not required.
Special offers

The Cafe at Explore York Library and Learning Centre
Library Square, Museum Street
Saturday 28 January 9.30am - 4.30pm & Sunday 29 January 11am - 3.30pm
10% discount on all food and drink purchased by residents showing a valid YorkCard

National Railway Museum
Leeman Road, 0844 815 3139
Saturday 28 & Sunday 29 January, 12pm-2.30pm
During Resident's Festival, kids eat free when you buy any adult meal from the restaurant (adults also receive a free glass of wine with a main meal). Please visit www.visityork.org for full terms and conditions of the offer.

PapaKåta Pop-up Café
York Museum Gardens
Saturday 28 & Sunday 29 January
Fancy warming your cockles in a giant teepee by log fires this winter? Then be sure to visit PapaKåta's pop-up
café in the York Museum gardens this January. As part of York's 2012 Residents Festival, PapaKåta are partnering with Saunts caterers and York Museums Trust to bring you a cosy city centre hub from which to enjoy hot chocolates, frothy lattes and scrumptious chocolate brownies amongst other delicious heart-warming delights. Receive a 10% discount on production of a valid YorkCard.
For more information call 01904 702100 or visit www.papakata.co.uk

York Mystery Plays ticket discount
Available from York Theatre Royal box office, 01904 623568
Saturday 28 January, 10am - 9pm
Sunday 29 January, 11am - 4pm
During York Residents Festival York Mystery Plays are offering a 10% discount on any performance and any price level (2 tickets per cardholder). Discount can be redeemed when booking in person, when booking at the Theatre Royal box office (not available online). 500 discounted tickets are available.

Restaurant Deals

2 for 1 - buy 1 main course get the cheapest free

D.C.H - at the Dean Court Hotel
Duncombe Place, 01904 625082
Saturday 28 January - Friday 3 February, 7pm onwards
Must be part of a minimum 2 course meal. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers. Pre-booking is required

Kennedy's Bar & Restaurant
1 Little Stonegate, 01904 620222
Sunday 29 January - Friday 3 February, 10am-late
Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer.

Plonkers Wine Bar
5 Cumberland Street, 01904 655307
Saturday 28 & Sunday 29 January, 11am-9pm
Not valid with any other offers. Pre-booking required, please advise of York Residents Festival offer when booking. Pre-booking is required

Sangthai Restaurant
Escrick, 01904 728462
Saturday 28 January - Friday 3 February, 6pm-10.30pm (closed Mondays)
One YorkCard per table. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers. Not to be used with set menus.

Tandoori Night Restaurant
21-23 Bootham, 01904 612017
Saturday 28 & Sunday 29 January, 5pm-11pm

York Marriott Hotel
Tadcaster Road, 01904 701000
Saturday 28 & Sunday 29 January, 6pm - 10pm
Reservations must be made in advance.

Free starter or dessert with each main course

The Bar Convent
Blossom Street, 01904 643238
Saturday 28 January, 10am-4pm
York's hidden gem, established in 1686.Visit the free museum and fabulous café serving delicious food (vegetarian and gluten free available).

The Court Café-Bistro & Bar
Dean Court Hotel, Duncombe Place, 01904 625082
Saturday 28 January - Friday 3 February (not available Sunday 29 January)
5.30pm-8.30pm
Cannot be used in conjunction with other offers.

Lady Anne Middleton's Hotel
Skeldergate, 01904 611570
Saturday 28 January - Friday 3 February, 6.30pm - 8.30pm
Offering an exciting menu combining the traditional with modern twists, complimented by a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Booking is advised.

Lamplight Restaurant
76-78 Heworth Green, 01904 425156
Saturday 28 January, Tuesday 31 January and Wednesday 1 - Friday 3 February,
6pm-8.30pm (last orders 8pm)
Offer is subject to availability. Yorkcard must be produced on arrival at the restaurant. Pre-booking is essential, please advise of York Residents Festival offer when booking.

Masons Bar & Bistro
13 Fossgate, 01904 611919
Saturday 28 January, 12pm-9.30pm & Sunday 29 January 12pm-7.30pm
Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer.

Monkbar Hotel
St Maurice's Road, 01904 638086
Saturday 28 January - Friday 3 February, 12pm-2.30pm and 6pm-9.30pm
At the heart of York with free parking for diners, this is a great chance to dine before the theatre, a ghost walk or relax after retail therapy.

The Ivy Brasserie
The Grange Hotel, 1 Clifton, 01904 644744
Saturday 28 January from 6pm - 7.30pm
Sunday 29 January - Friday 3 February from 6pm - 9.30pm
It cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer and tables must be pre-booked.

The New York Grill
The Grange Hotel, 1 Clifton, 01904 644744
Saturday 28 January from 6pm - 7.30pm
Sunday 29 January - Friday 3 February from 6pm - 9.30pm
It cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer and tables must be pre-booked.

RBG Bar and Grill
Park Inn, North Street, 01904 459988
Saturday 28 & Monday 30 January - Friday 3 February, 6.30pm-9pm
The casual RBG Grill overlooking the river serves delicious gourmet burgers and grills with healthy fresh salad options.

2 course meal for two for £30 (2 courses plus a bottle of wine)

Holiday Inn York
Tadcaster Road, 01904 777500
Thursday 26 - Monday 30 January from 6.30pm
Enjoy a 3 course meal from our Yorkshire menu and a bottle of wine for £30 based on 2 adults.

Meltons Restaurant
7 Scarcroft Road, 01904 634341
Saturday 28 January & Tuesday 31 January - Friday 3 February, 12pm (last orders 1.45pm)
2 Courses and a bottle house wine. Special Residents Festival menu. Booking essential. Offer is only available on lunchtimes only.

Meltons Too
25 Walmgate, 01904 629222
Saturday 28 January - Friday 3 February, 10.30am - midnight (not available Saturday 28 January after 5pm)
Wine to the value of £18. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer.

Newington Hotel
147 Mount Vale, 01904 625173
Saturday 28 January - Friday 3 February, 6.30pm-8.30pm
Enjoy a starter and main course or main course and dessert (coffee included). Pre-booking is required, quote "York resident" when making a reservation.

Old White Swan
80 Goodramgate, 01904 540911
Saturday 28 & Sunday 29 January, 4pm-10pm
Selected wines, please ask on the day.
Pre-booking is required.

ENDS