I know a bank where the wild thyme blows, where oxlips and the nodding violet grows

The Faerie Queen cordially invites you to a night of magic and revelry at the fae court.

Join us for the UK’s first Fantasy Ball for the EGL and J-fashion community - March 7th, 5-9:30pm

Tickets Launch December 7th

This event is organised by the EGL Newcastle comm. We ask that guests come dressed in their best, in an EGL or J-fashion style.

Coord suggestion: Fantasy, Flowers and Fae.

Your ticket includes:

  • Entry to a Victorian ballroom, decorated with flowers and twinkling lights

  • Welcome glass of champagne (or non-alcoholic alternative)

  • Two course finger buffet

  • A string quartet playing classical, pop and movie themes

  • Historic dance lesson, with dances from the Regency and Georgian era

  • A gift bag with trinkets from the fae folk

Tickets will be £65 plus booking fee.

A cash bar will be available throughout the evening, and there will be a charity raffle on the night (more info TBA).

A Victorian gem in the heart of York

The venue is De Grey Rooms - a beautifully preserved Grade II listed ballroom in York city centre. Built in the 1840s and known for its graceful neo-classical design, with high ceilings and elegant plasterwork.

In true faerie court style, the ballroom will be decorated with flowers and twinkling lights.

Entertainment

  • Historic Dance Lesson

    Learn Regency and Georgian dances with the fabulous Lottie from Dance The Past. Lottie has over a decade of experience in teaching historic dance and organises regular workshops and events, such as the Austen birthday bash.

  • The Ebor Quartet

    You may know York’s favourite string quartet from their candlelit concerts. A young and vibrant quartet with a repertoire including classical favourites, movie soundtracks and renditions of popular songs.

  • DJ Set

    As the night draws to a close, the music will move up-tempo with a DJ set of western and Japanese favourites.

Getting there

De Grey House, St Leonard's Pl, York YO1 7HE

Train

York station is a 10 minute walk from the venue. There are regular direct trains to and from most major cities, including London: 1h 50m | Edinburgh: 2h 23m | Manchester: 1h 30m | Newcastle: 55m | Liverpool: 1h 48m | Birmingham: 2h 15m

Car

York is a 22 min drive from the M1, and there are several car parks a short walk from the venue. Bootham Row Car Park is a 3 min walk, with Marygate Car park reachable in 8 min.

Bus

The venue is served by several bus routes, including the number 5 which stops at Theatre Royal, just across the road.

Frequently Asked Questions

When and where does the ball take place?

The ball will take place at De Grey Rooms, York on Saturday March 7th 2026 from 17:00 - 21:30.

When will tickets be available?

Tickets will be launched at 12pm on Sunday, 7th December.

Is the venue accessible?

Yes, the venue is fully accessible. The ballroom is located on the first floor, with lift access. Standard toilets are on the same level. There is an accessible toilet on the ground level, also reachable by lift.

Will dietary needs be catered for?

Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options are available. The buffet will be nut-free, however the caterer does use nuts in their facility. For other dietary needs, please email us.

Is there a Dress Code?

We ask that guests wear EGL or a similar elegant J-fashion style. The suggested theme is Fantasy, Flowers and Fae.

Does my coord have to match the theme?

The theme is just a suggestion - please be as creative with your coord as you like!

Can I bring a guest who doesn’t wear J-fashion?

Guests may bring a partner or friend, provided they are dressed appropriately. Fantasy and historical outfits, and evening wear are also welcome. No denim, sportswear or low quality fancy dress costumes please. Guests with mobility needs may wear trainers if they need to.

Is there a limit on how many tickets I can buy?

Tickets are limited to 4 per person.

Is there an age limit?

Guests must be aged 18 or over. We may ask for proof of age - please bring a passport, driving licence or PASS card.

Are tickets refundable?

Tickets may be refunded if your request is within 30 days of purchase, and at least 30 days before the start of the event. Please email us to request a refund.

Will there be a cloakroom available?

An area will be provided for guests to store coats and other items. Please note that this area will not be manned - all items are left at your own risk.

Is there anything else I need to know?

We hope that guests relax and enjoy themselves, but please be mindful that the ball takes place in a historic building. We ask that guests take care not to cause damage to the venue. The organisers retain the right to refuse entry or remove guests if necessary.