Sir Simon Jenkins noted in his best-selling book ‘England’s Thousand Best Houses’ (2003), that Fairfax House is
“the most perfect eighteenth century townhouse I have come across anywhere in England”
Built in 1762 for the Fairfax family, the interior was designed by York’s most distinguished architect, John Carr. The house is located in the heart of the city between Clifford’s Tower and the Jorvik Viking Centre. Since its construction as a private residence, it has been used as a gentleman’s club and a cinema.
Fortunately for York, in 1984 the house was taken over by the York Civic Trust, and was painstakingly restored to its original glory, stripping back the twentieth century paint to reveal the original Georgian decor.
It is now one of the jewels in York’s crown.
You can walk around the house on your own, but we recommend taking one of the excellent guided tours conducted daily at 11.00am and 2.00pm.
No bookings are required, just arrive 10 minutes before the start of the scheduled tour.
The tours last approximately 1 hour.
Along with the magnificent interior decoration, Fairax house now hosts the famous Noel Terry collection of Furniture and Clocks, “the best collection of Georgian furniture ever seen in one space†– Paul Martin, BBC’s Flog It.
 Events & Exhibitions at Fairfax House
Fairfax House also hosts some fascinating events such as concerts, storytelling, exhibitions and workshops. No matter what time of year it is, there’s always something well worth seeing at Fairfax House. Read more about events at Fairfax House…
Visitor Information for Fairfax House
| Duration | 1 hour |
| Facilities | Shop, Café, Toilets |
| Disabled Access | Due to the character of this Grade 1 listed building, disabled access is only possible with assistance. Please telephone in advance of your visit with your requirements. |
| Price | Adults- £5.40;Concession – £4.50; include senior citizens and students.Children: Under 16 free when accompanied by an adult |
| Opening Hours |
Fairfax House is open to the public from mid February to 31 December. Closed for Christmas on 24,25,26 December and for winter cleaning in January and early February. Bank Holiday Mondays: The House is open as normal from 10.00am to 5.00pm and there are no guided toursTuesday: 10.00am – 5.00pm Wednesday: 10.00am – 5.00pm Thursday: 10.00am – 5.00pm Friday: 10.00am – 5.00pm Saturday: 10.00am – 5.00pm Sunday:Â 12.30pm – 4.00pm also entrance by guided tour at 11.00amLast admission is half an hour before the stated closing times.Guided tours around Fairfax House Monday: Entrance by guided tour at 11.00am and 2.00pm. Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday & Saturday: 11am – 4.30pm Friday: At 11am and 2pm for guided tours only and at other times by prior appointment. Sunday: 1.30pm – 4.30pm.The guided tours last approximately one hour. No bookings are required. Please just arrive 10 minutes before the start of the scheduled tour. |
Proximity to Minster – 850 metres; 11 minutes walk
Holiday In York | Fairfax House
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