The Wheel of York is set to return to the city centre this spring, offering residents and visitors a birds-eye view of local landmarks. The 33-metre observation wheel will operate in St Sampson’s Square from 3 May to 30 May 2026, welcoming passengers daily between 11am and 7pm.
The attraction, managed by the York-based operator Events by Cynosure, features 24 gondolas that can each accommodate up to six people. It also includes a dedicated wheelchair-accessible pod and a VIP pod for special occasions. Passengers can expect panoramic views of the city, including York Minster, Clifford’s Tower, the Shambles, Museum Gardens, the City Walls, and the River Ouse.
John Lowery, director of the parent company Hire A Funfair, said the team is proud to present the wheel in their home city. The installation is organised in partnership with Make It York, the city’s destination management organisation. The wheel was originally brought to the city centre from York Racecourse, where it was first used during the York Balloon Fiesta.
To facilitate the attraction, the City of York Council will close St Sampson’s Square to vehicle traffic during the period the wheel is in operation, with local diversions and signage in place for motorists.
Tickets for the experience can be purchased in advance through the official website, where standard entry is priced at £5.50 and tickets for children under 1.4 metres are £3.50. Tickets purchased on the day are priced at £7 for standard entry and £5 for children under 1.4 metres.
About this article: This story was put together with the help of AI tools and checked by a real person on our team. We're a small crew trying to cover as much of the UK as we can on a limited budget. We're getting better every day - but we're not perfect yet. If something looks off, let us know. You're part of the process.
