Five of the best buildings to peek into at this weekend’s York Unlocked

The open house event will see 60 historic buildings in the city free to visit. A local expert picks his must-sees

This weekend, on 15 and 16 October in the first York Unlocked event, 60 historic buildings will open free to the public, with volunteer stewards on hand as guides.

To grow up in York, as I did, is to be spoilt rotten with historical riches. Having been the capital of Roman Britain, York was arguably Britain’s second city at various times between the 10th and early 17th centuries. In 1642, Charles I attempted to escape his London difficulties by establishing his court at the sprawling, picturesque King’s Manor in the middle of town, and this will be one of the attractions open this weekend.