Fairfax House

About

Fairfax House is a historic museum in York inside a Georgian townhouse. Viscount Fairfax originally owned the house in Georgian times. Renowned York 18th century architect John Carr was responsible for the impressive interior decoration of the house. Furthermore, the house became a cinema and dance hall in the 20th century. However, York Civic Trust oversaw restoration of the house to its original form between 1982-84. Now a museum, it is designed to immerse visitors into city life in Georgian York.

What is there to do at Fairfax House?

At Fairfax House in York, you can explore the Georgian townhouse and it’s exhibits, including:

• The Fairfax Family – learn about Charles Fairfax, the 9th Viscount of Emley, and his family who owned the house and used it as their winter home.
• Building the Georgian Townhouse – learn about Viscount Fairfax’s rebuild and refurbishment of the house. Additionally, discover the life and career of John Carr who was the neo-classical architect behind the houses interior decoration.
• 18th Century York – find out more about Georgian York as a hub of fashionable entertainment.
• Secrets of Stucco – the ceilings in the Library, Dining Room, Saloon and Grand Staircase are all decorated in impressive stuccowork.
• Cinema Days: St Georges Hall – discover the hall’s history as a cinema and dance hall in the 20th century.

The house also has new and changing exhibits to visit. Additionally, the hall is home to an extensive collection of Georgian items including furniture, silver, artwork and more. Also, guided tours are available on Fridays at 11am, 12pm and 2pm.

To find out more about a visit to Fairfax House, click here.

Accessibility

Fairfax House has a staircase with 6 stone steps at its entrance with a handrail. There is no ramp at the entrance. Inside the house has 2 floors joined by a staircase. However, no lifts are available inside the house. Each room of the house has a chair for visitor seating. Additionally, there are walking sticks that fold out as chairs available at reception to take round the house. Pushchairs are not allowed inside but there is an area for them to be left in reception. In terms of parking, the nearest carpark is the Castle Carpark which is about a 1 minute walk away.

Noise levels at the house may vary depending on how busy it is. For visitors wanting a quieter visit, it may be advisable to avoid Saturday’s or to visit at an earlier time on a weekend. However, there is not a dedicated quiet time to visit.

For more information about places to visit in York, visit the Eric Knows website.