A significant collection of Roman and early medieval artefacts has been uncovered during excavation works for the new room2 York hometel, located within the city's historic castle walls.

The discoveries include pottery, building materials, metal objects such as coins and animal bones.

All items have been safely excavated and are now undergoing further analysis. Once this process is complete, the artefacts will go on public display at the Yorkshire Museum.

With the archaeological phase now concluded, the room2 development is moving from early ground works into the next stage of construction, transitioning to vertical build.

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Michael Sims, Managing Director of Clegg Construction, said: "Discovering such significant Roman and early medieval remains in the heart of York is a reminder of the city's remarkable history.

"As the main contractor, we are proud to have facilitated the safe and efficient excavations. Collaboration between our site team and the archaeologists was key to achieving this balance, and we are pleased that the discoveries will contribute to a deeper understanding of York's past for generations to come."

The new room2 York will feature 116 guest rooms equipped with kitchens, alongside meeting space, a laundry room and a gym. Its design will offer a contemporary interpretation of York’s medieval heritage, while incorporating room2’s circular design philosophy through its in-house Circular Design Studio, which produces items from reused coffee grounds, plastics and cardboard.

The fully electric, net zero building will target BREEAM Excellent certification and align with the UK Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard for both operational and embodied carbon. It will also include Winnie’s Café and Bar, offering food and drink with a focus on sustainability.