Date: 6 July 2026

Victorians versus the Swinging Sixties, York Castle Museum asks who did summer better? 

York Castle Museum launched their summer displays on 22 June, pitching a battle of the centuries and asking who did summer better, the Victorians or the Swinging Sixties? Kirkgate, the museum’s Victorian street, certainly makes a bet for the best in show, adorned with floral displays, and projections of fireworks in the twilight sky. Recreating the vibes of the iconic York Galas that ran from 1859 through to the early twentieth century, York Castle Museum captures the essence of grand summer days out of a bygone era. 

The Swinging Sixties exhibition on the other side of the museum boasts a return to the summer(s) of love. With giant flower power decor, games table and sounds of the 60s floating over the speakers, it transports visitors back to celebrate an iconic decade and for some, childhood memories. The games continue in the yard, to release the inner child, with space hoppers, swing ball tennis, hobby horses and retro relaxation in orange floral deckchairs.  

The museum has decorated for the summer festivities earlier than previous years, to give visitors longer to experience the feel-good florals and festivities outside of the school holidays. Enjoy a nostalgic adventure into the past at York Castle Museum as the museum invites visitors to decide if the Victorians or the Swinging Sixties had the best summers.