Thin Ice Press: the York Centre for Print

Explore the fascinating history and vibrant future of traditional printing at Thin Ice Press: the York Centre for Print. Set in the idyllic gardens of St Anthony's Hall, the Centre’s working pressroom, museum and gallery offer exhibitions, workshops and activities for all ages.

York’s printing heritage can be traced through its streets, archives and the stories of its residents: the iconic printer’s devil on Stonegate; the enterprising Thomas Gent who ventured onto the icy Ouse during the frost fair of 1739 to print souvenir broadsides; and tales of 20th-century apprentices slipping and sliding through the mud to retrieve type thrown from the windows of the newspaper offices on Coney Street.

Today traditional printing may be on thin ice - it can be found on the red list of endangered crafts - but Thin Ice Press: the York Centre for Print is building a community and creating opportunities for dedicated creatives and curious minds alike to ensure it thrives for the next 500 years, not just preserving the past but bringing it to life. 

Why not take a tour of York’s printing heritage, join a workshop and enjoy exhibitions showcasing the work of contemporary printmakers? All are welcome.

Open Fridays to Mondays, 10am to 5pm and Thursdays 1pm to 8pm.

Visit the Thin Ice Press website to find out more about the Centre’s regular programme of free workshops, events and exhibitions.

Photo credit: Alex Holland, University of York