Major Road Closure in York for Colour & Light Event, Disrupting Traffic but Enhancing Visitor Experience

In one of the most significant changes to York’s traffic landscape for 2026, a key road surrounding York Castle will be closed to motorists for almost three weeks. This closure is part of the city’s preparations for the eagerly awaited Colour & Light event, which will be held next month. Organised by York BID, the event is designed to offer visitors a unique experience that celebrates the city’s rich history while blending it with stunning modern art.

The road closure has been put in place to ensure the safety of both visitors and locals during the event, which is expected to draw a large crowd. While the Colour & Light event promises to be a memorable and exciting experience, the necessary traffic disruptions will have an impact on the flow of traffic in York’s city centre for a short period. However, the city’s efforts to manage the situation will help make it as smooth as possible for everyone.

Details of the Road Closure

The key area affected by the closure will be York Castle, which encircles the iconic Eye of York, an important tourist attraction located at the heart of the city. The road closure will begin at 12:01 a.m. on Tuesday, February 3, and will extend until 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, February 22. During this period, the road, from its junction with Tower Street onwards, will be closed to all motorists.

However, it is worth noting that the closure is expected to be active primarily between 5:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. each day, although this timing has yet to be fully confirmed by the City of York Council. For those visiting the city, it’s important to keep an eye on the official council updates for any changes regarding the specific hours.

The decision to close the road is viewed as necessary for the smooth running of the Colour & Light event. The event involves the installation of colourful lighting installations around York Castle, which requires unobstructed space for assembly and dismantling, as well as ensuring that the public can move safely within the area.

Impact on Local Traffic and Alternative Routes

While the closure will undoubtedly cause some inconvenience, the City of York Council has made preparations to minimize the disruption for motorists. Traffic signs and barriers will be strategically placed to inform drivers of the closure. Additionally, emergency services will be granted full access to the area to ensure that any emergency response is not delayed.

For motorists whose routes are affected by the closure, an alternative route will be signed via York’s Inner Ring Road. This should provide drivers with a clear detour to reach their destination while avoiding the closed sections of Tower Street and the area around York Castle.

In addition to the major closure, a smaller, more limited closure will take place in the area around Tower Street. Between 12:01 a.m. on Tuesday, February 3, and 5:00 a.m. on Thursday, February 5, Tower Street, between its junctions with York Castle and Paragon Street, will be closed to motorists for essential works. These works are planned to occur overnight, between 12:00 a.m. and 5:00 a.m., to minimize disruption during the day. During this time, only one direction of traffic will be affected at a time, and the closure will be implemented in phases.

As with the full closure, signs will direct motorists to alternative routes, which should help them avoid the blocked sections of Tower Street.

For local residents and business owners, access will not be affected, ensuring that daily life and business operations can continue uninterrupted. However, the authorities recommend residents and business owners plan accordingly, especially during peak event times, to avoid any potential delays.

Colour & Light Event: A Unique Cultural Experience for Tourists

The Colour & Light event, which is scheduled to take place over the same period as the road closure, will undoubtedly draw in thousands of tourists and locals eager to witness the city’s unique blend of history and contemporary art. The event is designed to transform the historic landmarks of York into vibrant canvases of light and colour, offering a visually stunning experience that celebrates the city’s rich cultural heritage.

York Castle, with its imposing walls and the Eye of York, serves as the perfect backdrop for the event, which will feature a series of light installations, projections, and other artistic displays. The festival aims to provide an immersive experience for visitors of all ages, allowing them to enjoy a series of public installations throughout the evening while celebrating York’s artistic community.

While the road closures may cause temporary inconvenience, they will also contribute to the event’s overall success by ensuring that the installations are safely erected and that the public can experience the full effect of the light displays.

A Perfect Time to Explore York’s Other Attractions

For those planning to visit York during the Colour & Light event and the subsequent road closures, the city offers plenty of alternative attractions to explore. Known for its rich history, York is home to several fascinating landmarks, including York Minster, The Shambles, and the National Railway Museum. Visitors can also explore the picturesque Museum Gardens and enjoy leisurely strolls along the River Ouse.

Even with the temporary disruptions, York’s diverse range of attractions ensures that there will be plenty to see and do while the roadwork and event-related closures are in place. Moreover, the city’s restaurants, shops, and cafes remain open for business, providing ample opportunities for visitors to relax and enjoy the local culture.

Conclusion

The closure of the road around York Castle for nearly three weeks marks a key moment in the city’s annual tourism calendar, with the upcoming Colour & Light event offering a unique chance to experience York’s rich history through the lens of modern art. While the road closure may cause temporary traffic disruptions, the efforts being made to keep visitors informed will help ensure a smooth experience as they navigate the city.

Instead of seeing the road closures as a hassle, visitors are encouraged to embrace them as part of the overall experience. This event is an opportunity to witness the stunning contrast between York Castle’s historic charm and the creative flair of the light installations, creating an unforgettable experience for everyone.

For the latest updates and any changes regarding the event and road closures, be sure to check the official City of York Council website and York BID for all the details.