York’s Hidden Treasures Project

Coming in Autumn 2026
(hopefully)

I am thrilled to report that The History Press has commissioned me to write a book on some of the lesser-known spaces and places in York. It’s neither a history of York nor a travel guide, but an examination of the city’s living history, showing how past, present and future blend so beautifully here.

Researching Roman York

It’s all about the research right now. This project is due for submission in January, so I’d like to be writing already, but there is so much to learn!

Almost met a celebrity

The building is beautiful, the gin is really quite nice, and it never fails to surprise. I had a bit of an unusual experience during my last photo walk. Jack Davenport was filming in Lady Peckett’s Yard, my favourite snickelway (covered by the blue tarp). The guard made sure I didn’t get any closer.

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Lots of scaffolding!

A lot of the buildings I hope to use in the book are being renovated right now. Fortunately, the river is still lovely.

Hidden passages

As I explore York on my photo walks for the book, I am always charmed by the tiny passing-places that open up on nearly every street. I made it my mission to explore them all, and found some things I never knew existed.

Tiny problem

As you may be able to tell from the arm that popped up into this photo of the Judge’s Lodging just as I took the shot, tourists can be a problem. I intend to start VERY early in the morning next time.