The York Model Railway Show has expanded to become the North’s premier event and, at three days, one of the longer running Model Railway Shows in the Country. It was begun by the late Mike Cook in 1962, and is held annually over Easter.
The exact total and blend of exhibitors varies from year to year but we aim for a total of between 110 and 130 stands including around 40 working layouts. We also have a range of trade displays, together with stands for specialist societies.
About the venue
Located in York on the historic Knavesmire racecourse, the Show has access to all the facilities of the Knavesmire Stand, including a full refreshment service and licensed bar. We welcome less than fully mobile visitors on all three days. The external accesses are ramped, several disabled toilets are available, there is full lift access to all floors within the venue and these “in hall” facilities do not change. The venue’s size permits us to show layouts both large and small with adequate gangway space using the ground, first and second floors of the Knavesmire Suite plus the two mezzanine floors
Catering
Catering for the York Model Railway Show is provided by the York Racecourse catering service in their large Voltigeur Suite on the third floor. During the show a full range of hot and cold food, tea coffee and a fully licensed bar is available on all three show days. Food options cover the whole range from full meal deals to individual snacks and sandwiches.
Cash machines
A cash machine is operational during the show. However please note this is a 3rd party service, cash back and other money options are not provided by YMRS. The service provider charges for the transactions.
Dogs
The only dogs admitted during the Show are official helping dogs, guide dogs etc.
Show days
The show is on Saturday, Sunday and Monday of Easter each year. If you are arriving in the morning near to Show opening time there may be a queue, especially on Saturday.
Travel
The show is easily accessible by road from all over the North, and from the Midlands too, but please follow the signposted routes. They may not be the shortest, but they will help you avoid York City Centre. For those arriving by rail an exhibition bus link usually operates from York Railway Station. Disabled parking will be available close to the main entrance in Racecourse Road. However there is often a car boot sale on the Saturday adjacent to the venue and therefore parking varies according to the day you arrive. Free parking for over 800 cars is usually available on the Knavesmire, but may be weather dependent.
The latest travel information will be placed on our Travel info’ page and as both the Racecourse venue, and York generally, has many tourist events you are recommended to re-check the travel page before attending for the latest information on bus services and the parking details.