York Castle Museum

About this activity

York Castle Museum is one of Britain's leading museums of everyday life. It shows how people used to live by displaying thousands of household objects and rooms that have been recreated so you can imagine what life was like back then! 

Explore 400 years of York's past, with hundreds of years of history in one place. From Victorian street to infamous prisoners and the swinging sixties, you'll be taken on a journey through time. There's something for everyone and the galleries hold thousdands of historic objects that bring the past to life. 

Kirkgate is a recreated Victorian street and is one of the oldest recreated streets of its kind. Each show and business is named after a real business that operated in late York and the costumed guides will you all about each shop when you arrive. 

The York Castle Prison tells the stories of the rough conditions, harsh punishments and the inmates, including Dick Turpin! 

Experience the objects and stories of the First World War and the moving stories of the Yorkshire people who lived and died during this time. 

The Sixties exhibition uses iconic objects from social history, art and fashion to bring the story to life! There's also a series of period rooms laid out with furniture from different eras from the 17th century to Victorian parlours. 

You'll also find some childhood toys! Play in the inspired play area and watch the 100-year old carousel turn round or head off on the Teddy Trail around the exhibition.