Light show to illuminate two landmark buildings

Andrew BartonYorkshire
News imageYork BID This image is a digital rendering which depicts lights being projected onto historic architecture. It combines Clifford's Tower, Castle Museum and a large illuminated tree, against a starry sky backdrop.York BID
Clifford's Tower and the Castle Museum will be lit up in February

Two landmark buildings are to be illuminated at the same time as part of a city's light show.

The Colour and Light event in York will see both Clifford's Tower and the Castle Museum lit up by a fully choreographed projection show in February.

The 10-minute show, organised by York's Business Improvement District (BID), is due to run on a "continuous loop" each evening from 4 February to 22 February between 18:00 GMT and 21:00 GMT, organisers said.

York BID said the free event would offer "a magical after-dark moment for everyone".

In previous years the event has seen both York Minster, and the city's art gallery used as backdrops for illuminated projection shows.

News imageYORK BID/DOUBLETAKE PROJECTIONS The photograph shows the front façade of a large Gothic-style cathedral (York Minster) illuminated with colorful light projections, under a dark blue sky dotted with faint stars.YORK BID/DOUBLETAKE PROJECTIONS
York Minster was illuminated with a special projection light display in 2023

York BID's Carl Alsop said: "Colour and Light has become a real bright spot in York's winter calendar, and we're proud to be bringing it back bigger than ever for 2026.

"Making the event completely free is incredibly important to us. It means anyone can come into the city centre, enjoy the atmosphere, and experience our city after dark."

Meanwhile, Andrea Selley, operations director at English Heritage, commented: "Clifford's Tower is the largest remaining part of York's royal castle and has a dramatic and sometimes tragic history.

"We're thrilled this iconic landmark will be part of this unique and inspiring event, which brings so many people together."

Listen to highlights from North Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North.

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