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Fairfax House

York, United Kingdom•4.6(551)•Historic House, Museum

Explore one of England's finest Georgian townhouses filled with exceptional furniture, clocks, paintings and decorative arts from the renowned Noel Terry collection.

Fairfax House is a beautifully preserved Georgian townhouse located in the heart of York, offering visitors a glimpse into over 250 years of history. The house features the superb Noel Terry collection of furniture, clocks, paintings and decorative arts, which Christie's has described as one of the finest private collections of the twentieth century. This exceptional collection is used to bring the past to life and create a special lived-in feeling throughout the house. Visitors can explore the historic rooms and discover exciting people-led stories through the house's exhibitions and displays. The venue focuses on making history accessible and engaging for families and history enthusiasts alike. With regular opening hours and various events throughout the year, including special exhibitions and candlelit experiences, Fairfax House provides an enriching cultural experience for guests of all ages. The intimate scale of the townhouse combined with its world-class collection makes it a unique destination for those interested in Georgian heritage, decorative arts, and social history.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Opening Hours

Monday: 10:00 – 16:30
Tuesday: 10:00 – 16:30
Wednesday: 10:00 – 16:30
Thursday: 10:00 – 16:30
Friday: 13:45 – 14:00
Saturday: 10:00 – 16:30
Sunday: 11:00 – 15:30

Venue Details

Venue Type

Indoor

Typical visit duration

1-3 hours

Booking

Walk-in

What this place offers

ToiletsToilets
Public transportPublic transport nearby
Accessible toilets
Free WiFi
Baby changingBaby changing facilities
Food available
On-site parking
🐕Dog-friendly
Parking nearby
Pushchair friendlyPushchair friendly
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Google Reviews

4.6(551 reviews)
A
Andreea L

Andreea L

2 months ago

If you want to step back in time and experience the true elegance of Georgian York, Fairfax House is an absolute must-visit. From the moment you step inside, you are transported into a world of exquisite craftsmanship. The house itself is absolutely stunning and remarkably well-maintained, with breathtaking ceilings, gorgeous period furniture, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel like an invited guest rather than just a tourist. What truly elevates the experience, however, is the incredible team of volunteers. The ladies stationed throughout the house are absolutely wonderful—so sweet, incredibly welcoming, and deeply knowledgeable about every single room you walk into. Their passion for the history of the house shines through in every story they share, bringing the past to life in the most delightful way. Pro Tip: Make sure your phone is fully charged before you visit. Between the dramatic grand staircase, the beautifully dressed rooms, and the intricate historic details, a rich and stunning camera roll is absolutely guaranteed! A flawless, enchanting experience from start to finish. I cannot recommend it enough!

L
Lisa and Nick Schalk

Lisa and Nick Schalk

3 months ago

Beautiful architecture and furnishings. Fascinating story-telling and well displayed rooms. We could walk all around and there were volunteer guides in each room eager to share information and answer questions. A top-notch Georgian experience! Also, there was a look-and-find trail for our kids. It’s a seasonal thing and will be on all summer. Oh! And a dress-up corner which our girls loved.

A
Alan Dyer

Alan Dyer

3 months ago

Thoroughly enjoyed our visit, fantastic guides in various rooms. Fabulous history and amazing building.

M
Michael Marrison

Michael Marrison

6 months ago

Exquisite furniture and furnishings, outstanding plaster work, all capped off by some very knowledgeable and friendly staff. My time in the house passed very quickly, and I came away knowing far more than I did when I arrived. All the guides were very friendly and approachable. But the star of the show is the house itself and all its fittings. I will be . But the star of the show is the house itself and all it’s fittings. I will be going back again as soon as I can get time to revisit York.

S
Samuel Payne

Samuel Payne

6 months ago

Amazing. The house was owned by a viscount and his daughter in the mid 1700s and has been restored and refurnished to look as it might have done back then. Of particular note are the excellent plaster ceilings, each with their own iconography pertaining to the room they're in. The docents were very knowledgeable about the family and life in the 18th century and were more than happy to field questions. This is a must visit for anyone interested in life in the 18th century, English aristocracy, or just history in general.

Reviews last updated: 29 September 2026

Events at Fairfax House

No upcoming events scheduled

Check back soon for new events at this venue.

This venue was last updated on 29 September 2026

Frequently asked questions about Fairfax House

Is Fairfax House free to visit?

Fairfax House is a paid attraction — see the official website for current ticket prices.

Is Fairfax House dog-friendly?

Yes, dogs are welcome at Fairfax House.

Is there parking at Fairfax House?

Fairfax House doesn't have on-site parking, but parking is available nearby.

Is there food at Fairfax House?

Fairfax House doesn't have food on site — bring snacks or grab something nearby.

Is Fairfax House pushchair-friendly?

Fairfax House isn't the easiest for pushchairs, prams or buggies — stairs or uneven terrain may make a baby carrier a better option.

How long should we plan to spend at Fairfax House?

Plan 1–3 hours for a visit to Fairfax House.

How do I get to Fairfax House by public transport?

Fairfax House is well-served by public transport.

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