York, a city where ancient walls embrace centuries of history, offers a captivating blend of old-world charm and modern attractions. As you wander through its cobblestone streets, you’ll find yourself on a journey through time, from Roman ruins to Viking heritage, and from medieval splendor to Victorian innovation.
This guide will take you through the best things to do in York, whether you’re a history enthusiast, a family looking for kid-friendly adventures, or a traveler seeking unique experiences. From the towering York Minster to the quirky Snickelways, from hands-on museums to peaceful gardens, York offers a diverse array of attractions that cater to all interests and ages.
🏡 Where to Stay in York:
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: The Grand, York
- ✨ 5-Star: Principal York
- 🏨 4-Star: Hampton by Hilton York
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Middletons
- 💸 Cheap: Wheatlands Lodge Hotel
- 🏢 Apartment: Goodramgate Apartments
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Novotel York Centre
- 🏩 For Couples: The Minster Hotel
👩🏻 Best Guided Tours:
- The Deathly Dark Ghost Tour of York – Experience an award-winning nocturnal adventure through York’s haunted streets, led by the charismatic Dorian Deathly. This spine-chilling tour is perfect for thrill-seekers and history buffs looking for a unique way to explore York’s darker side.
- The Bloody Tour of York with Mad Alice – Join Europe’s best tour award winner for a macabre journey through York’s gruesome past. Ideal for those who enjoy dark humor and theatrical storytelling, this 90-minute tour brings York’s history to life in a uniquely entertaining way.
- Ouse River Sightseeing Cruise – Enjoy a relaxing daytime cruise along York’s historic River Ouse, offering a unique perspective of the city’s landmarks. This leisurely sightseeing experience is perfect for families and those looking to see York from a different angle.
- York Ghost Tour by Vintage Routemaster Bus – Embark on a unique ghost tour experience aboard a classic double-decker bus, combining sightseeing with spooky tales. This tour is great for those who prefer a seated experience with a nostalgic twist, offering a different way to explore York’s haunted history.
Best Things To Do in York
1. 🏛️ York Minster
Gothic grandeur. York Minster stands as a magnificent testament to medieval architectural brilliance. This breathtaking cathedral, with its intricate stained glass windows and soaring spires, offers visitors a glimpse into centuries of rich history. The Great East Window, completed in 1408, is the largest expanse of medieval stained glass in the world. The Minster’s Chapter House, with its distinctive octagonal shape and ornate carvings, is a masterpiece of Gothic design.
Panoramic views. Climbing the Central Tower rewards you with stunning vistas of York’s skyline. Don’t miss the chance to attend an Evensong service, where angelic voices fill the cavernous space with ethereal melodies. The Minster’s Undercroft Museum reveals the building’s Roman and Norman foundations, offering a fascinating journey through time. For those seeking a more immersive experience, guided tours provide in-depth insights into the Minster’s architecture, history, and ongoing conservation efforts.
⭐ Best Activities
The Deathly Dark Ghost Tour – This award-winning tour offers a spine-chilling journey through York’s haunted history, blending humor with horror. Perfect for thrill-seekers and history buffs alike, it’s a captivating way to experience York’s darker side.
2. 🛡️ JORVIK Viking Centre
Time travel. Step back a millennium at the JORVIK Viking Centre, where 10th-century York comes alive. This immersive experience transports visitors to a meticulously reconstructed Viking settlement, complete with sights, sounds, and even smells of the Norse era. The centre’s famous ride takes you through a recreation of Viking-age streets, showcasing daily life in extraordinary detail. State-of-the-art animatronics and sound effects create a vivid, multisensory experience of the past.
Interactive history. Engaging exhibits and knowledgeable costumed interpreters bring the Viking age to vivid life. The annual JORVIK Viking Festival in February is a highlight, featuring battle reenactments and traditional music that will make you feel like a true Norse explorer. The centre’s artifact gallery displays thousands of items excavated from the Coppergate dig, offering tangible connections to York’s Viking inhabitants. Interactive displays allow visitors to try their hand at Viking-age crafts and games, providing a hands-on understanding of this fascinating period.
⭐ Best Activities
The Bloody Tour of York with Mad Alice – Led by the eccentric Mad Alice, this award-winning tour delves into York’s macabre past with a theatrical flair. Ideal for those who enjoy dark humor and dramatic storytelling, it’s a unique way to explore the city’s gruesome history.
3. 🏰 York Castle Museum
Victorian nostalgia. The York Castle Museum offers a fascinating journey through York’s social and military history. The recreated Victorian street, Kirkgate, is a highlight, allowing visitors to stroll through a bygone era complete with shops and costumed characters. The street comes alive with the sounds and smells of the 19th century, from the clatter of horse-drawn carriages to the aroma of freshly baked bread. The museum’s prison section, housed in the former debtor’s prison, provides a chilling glimpse into 18th-century justice and incarceration.
Diverse collections. From the chilling York Castle Prison exhibition to displays of vintage items, the museum’s extensive collections provide insights into everyday life throughout the centuries, captivating visitors of all ages. The Toy Stories gallery showcases beloved playthings from the past 150 years, evoking childhood memories for many visitors. The museum’s 1960s exhibition offers a vibrant journey through this transformative decade, complete with music, fashion, and iconic objects of the era.
⭐ Best Activities
J & M York City Walking Tours – This comprehensive walking tour offers a balanced view of York’s history and culture. Suitable for those seeking a more traditional, informative tour experience without the theatrical elements.
4. 🛍️ The Shambles
Medieval charm. Wandering through The Shambles is like stepping into a living history book. This well-preserved medieval shopping street, with its overhanging timber-framed buildings, transports visitors back in time. The street’s name comes from the Saxon word ‘shamel’, meaning ‘slaughterhouse’, reflecting its past as a street of butcher shops. Look for the meat hooks still visible on some of the buildings, a reminder of the street’s original purpose.
Magical inspiration. Today, it’s a bustling area filled with unique boutiques and artisanal shops. The Shambles is said to have inspired Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter series, making it a must-visit for fans and a picturesque spot for photographers. Several shops along the street cater to Harry Potter enthusiasts, offering wands, robes, and other magical merchandise. The narrow, cobbled street is particularly atmospheric in the early morning or late evening when the crowds thin out, offering perfect photo opportunities.
⭐ Best Activities
Wizard Walk of York – A magical, family-friendly tour that brings York’s enchanting side to life. Perfect for families with young children or Harry Potter fans looking for a whimsical adventure through the city.
5. 🗼 Clifford’s Tower
Historic landmark. Perched atop a hill, Clifford’s Tower offers unparalleled panoramic views of York’s historic skyline. This last remnant of York Castle has witnessed centuries of turbulent history, from its origins as a Norman keep to its role in the city’s Jewish community history. The tower’s distinctive quatrefoil shape is unique among English castles, reflecting its complex and varied past. The site has a dark history, including the tragic events of 1190 when the tower was the scene of one of the worst anti-Semitic massacres in English history.
Architectural marvel. The recently added roof deck and internal walkways allow visitors to fully appreciate the tower’s unique architectural features and its commanding position over the city. Interactive displays within the tower bring its history to life, detailing its roles as a prison, royal mint, and fortress over the centuries. The grassy mound surrounding the tower is a popular spot for picnics in summer, offering a relaxing space with stunning views of the city.
⭐ Best Activities
York Ghost Tour by Vintage Routemaster Bus – Combining sightseeing with spooky tales, this unique tour aboard a classic double-decker bus offers a different perspective on York’s haunted history. Great for those who prefer a seated tour with a nostalgic twist.
6. ☕ Afternoon Tea and Culinary Delights
Traditional indulgence. No visit to city of York is complete without indulging in afternoon tea. Betty’s Tea Rooms, an institution since 1936, offers a quintessentially British experience. For a modern twist, try one of the artisanal cafes around 757 W Market St or 48 E Philadelphia St.
Gastronomic adventures. York’s food and drink scene is thriving. From traditional Yorkshire puddings to innovative fusion cuisine, the city offers a taste for every palate. The area around Shambles Market is a food lover’s paradise, with numerous stalls and eateries to explore.
7. ⚾ WellSpan Park
Baseball heritage. WellSpan Park, home to the York Revolution of the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball, is a 7,500-seat stadium that blends modern amenities with nostalgic charm. Opened in 2007, the ballpark features the “Arch Nemesis,” a 37-foot, 8-inch left field wall that stands as the tallest outfield wall in all of baseball, surpassing even Fenway Park’s Green Monster.
Family-friendly atmosphere. Beyond baseball, WellSpan Park offers a range of attractions for all ages. The UPMC Children’s Playground, complete with a carousel and inflatable slide, keeps younger fans entertained. The stadium’s concessions showcase local York County favorites, providing a taste of the region. With its Brooks Robinson Plaza, featuring a statue of the Orioles great who once played for the York White Roses, and a hand-operated scoreboard, WellSpan Park creates a unique and engaging experience for both serious baseball enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
Things to do in York with kids
1. 🚂 National Railway Museum
Railway heritage. The National Railway Museum stands as a testament to Britain’s rich railway history, housing over 100 locomotives that have shaped the nation’s transport landscape. From the record-breaking Mallard—the world’s fastest steam locomotive—to the cutting-edge Japanese bullet train, the museum offers a comprehensive journey through time. Visitors can marvel at the evolution of rail technology, from early steam engines to modern high-speed trains.
Interactive marvels. Kids and adults alike can immerse themselves in the world of trains through hands-on exhibits. The miniature railway provides a thrilling ride, while state-of-the-art simulators offer a taste of conducting a train. The museum’s vast collection includes royal carriages, giving visitors a glimpse into luxurious travel of yesteryear. Regular workshops and demonstrations bring the science of locomotion to life, with skilled engineers showcasing the meticulous process of preserving these mechanical giants.
2. 🌽 York Maze
Agricultural labyrinth. Every summer, York Maze transforms acres of cornfields into an intricate labyrinth, challenging visitors with a new design annually. This giant puzzle, visible from the air, often pays homage to pop culture icons or historical figures, adding an element of excitement to the maze-solving adventure. The maze’s design is a closely guarded secret until its grand reveal, creating anticipation for both returning visitors and newcomers.
Farm-themed attractions. Beyond the maze, a cornucopia of rural entertainment awaits. Visitors can cheer at the hilarious pig races, take aim at the corn cannon shooting range, or enjoy a bumpy ride on the tractor trailer. The maze complex also features giant slides, climbing walls, and a “Cobstacle” course, ensuring a full day of outdoor fun. Special events throughout the season, including twilight maze adventures and Halloween-themed nights, transform the cornfield into an eerie playground for thrill-seekers.
3. 🍫 York’s Chocolate Story
Confectionery legacy. York’s Chocolate Story unwraps the city’s sweet history, showcasing its role as a chocolate-making powerhouse. Visitors learn about the Terry’s, Rowntree’s, and Craven families, whose innovations put city of York on the confectionery map with iconic treats like the Chocolate Orange and Kit Kat. The tour reveals how York’s chocolate industry shaped the city’s economy and social landscape over the centuries.
Sensory journey. The experience engages all senses, from the irresistible aroma of cocoa to the satisfying snap of perfectly tempered chocolate. Interactive displays reveal the intricate process of chocolate making, from bean to bar, while offering insights into the global chocolate trade. Guests can channel their inner chocolatier in hands-on workshops, learning the art of chocolate tempering and decoration. Each visit concludes with the opportunity to create and taste your own chocolate masterpiece, guided by the attraction’s expert chocolatiers.
⭐ Best Activities
York Historical Gems Tour and Chocolate Tasting – This tour blends York’s rich history with its sweet culinary heritage. Ideal for history enthusiasts and food lovers, it offers a well-rounded experience of York’s past and present.
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4. 🏺 DIG: An Archaeological Adventure
Hands-on history. DIG: An Archaeological Adventure transforms visitors into archaeologists, offering a unique, tactile experience of York’s layered past. This innovative attraction, created by the York Archaeological Trust, features four indoor excavation pits, each representing a different era of York’s rich history. Budding archaeologists can unearth artifacts from Roman, Viking, Medieval, and Victorian York, gaining insights into the city’s evolution over two millennia.
Interactive learning. Beyond the dig pits, DIG offers a range of interactive exhibits that bring archaeology to life. Visitors can piece together pottery, examine real artifacts up close, and use cutting-edge technology to visualize how York looked in different historical periods. Trained archaeologists guide participants through the excavation process, teaching proper techniques and the importance of context in understanding historical finds. The attraction also highlights ongoing archaeological projects in York, connecting the past with present-day discoveries.
Free Things to Do in York
1. 🏰 Walk the City Walls
Ancient fortifications. York’s city walls, the most complete example of medieval walls in England, offer a 3.4 km elevated walk around the historic city center. These ancient fortifications, with roots dating back to Roman times, provide unparalleled views of York Minster, the Shambles, and other iconic landmarks.
Historical gateways. The walls are punctuated by five main gatehouses, known locally as ‘bars’. Monk Bar, the most elaborate, houses a fascinating Richard III museum, while Micklegate Bar was traditionally used for displaying the heads of executed traitors. Each bar tells its own story of York’s tumultuous past.
2. 🌳 Visit York Museum Gardens
Botanical haven. The York Museum Gardens, sprawling over 10 acres in the heart of the city, showcase a diverse collection of plants and trees. The gardens are home to several species of birds and the famous ‘tansy beetles’, found only along the banks of York’s River Ouse.
Historical ruins. Within the gardens, visitors can explore the haunting ruins of St Mary’s Abbey, once the richest abbey in the north of England. The Multangular Tower, a remnant of Roman York, stands as a testament to the city’s ancient origins. The Yorkshire Museum, located within the gardens, houses significant archaeological finds from the region.
3. 🐱 York Cat Trail
Feline treasures. The York Cat Trail leads curious visitors on a hunt for the city’s hidden feline sculptures. These cats, perched on buildings throughout the city, were originally placed to scare away rats and mice. Today, they serve as charming reminders of York’s quirky history.
Urban exploration. Following the trail encourages visitors to look up and discover York’s architectural details often missed by casual observers. The hunt takes participants through narrow snickelways, past timber-framed medieval buildings, and into hidden courtyards, offering a unique perspective on the city’s layout.
4. 🛣️ Explore the Snickelways
Medieval passages. York’s snickelways, a network of narrow alleys and footpaths, offer a glimpse into the city’s medieval street plan. These hidden routes, often too narrow for vehicles, preserve the intimate scale of old York and provide shortcuts between major streets.
Historical significance. Many snickelways have intriguing names that hint at their past uses or notable residents. Mad Alice Lane, for instance, is named after a woman who was allegedly hanged for insanity in 1823. Exploring these passages offers insights into York’s social history and urban development.
Seasonal Activities in York
🎄 Christmas Magic in the City Centre
Festive wonderland. York’s Christmas markets transform the city centre into a winter wonderland from mid-November to late December. Parliament Street and St Sampson’s Square are lined with alpine chalets offering local crafts, artisan products, and seasonal treats. The St. Nicholas Fair, a highlight of York’s festive calendar, brings twinkling lights and the scent of mulled wine to the heart of the city.
Yuletide attractions. Beyond the markets, York offers a plethora of Christmas activities. York Minster hosts special carol services and concerts, while Castle Howard dons its festive finery. For a unique experience, take a 30-minute stroll to the Millennium Bridge, beautifully illuminated for the season, offering a picturesque view of the city’s Christmas lights reflected in the River Ouse.
🌸 Spring Blooms and Summer Festivals
Floral displays. As spring arrives, York bursts into color. The Museum Gardens, home to the ruins of St Mary’s Abbey, showcase a stunning array of daffodils and cherry blossoms. Just a 10-minute walk from the city centre, Rowntree Park offers a tranquil spot to enjoy the season’s blooms.
Summer celebrations. Summer in York brings a calendar packed with events. The Great Yorkshire Show takes place annually from July 8-11, offering a celebration of farming, food, and the countryside. Food and drink enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the York Food Festival, celebrating the city’s culinary scene with events spread across Market St, George St, and beyond.
🍂 Autumn Adventures and Hidden Gems
Autumnal beauty. Fall paints York in warm hues, making it an ideal time for exploring. Take a leisurely walk along the 13th-century city walls for panoramic views of the autumn foliage. The North York Moors Dark Skies Fringe Festival runs from October 25th to November 3rd, offering a unique perspective on the area’s pristine night skies.
Off the beaten path. Autumn is perfect for discovering York’s hidden gems. Explore the snickelways – narrow medieval alleys – that crisscross downtown York. These passages, like the famous Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma-Gate, offer a glimpse into the city’s rich history and are a photographer’s delight.
Day Trips from York
1. 🏞️ North York Moors National Park
Natural splendor. The North York Moors National Park, just a short journey from York, offers a breathtaking escape into nature. This vast expanse of heather moorland, ancient woodlands, and picturesque valleys provides a perfect contrast to the city’s urban charm.
Scenic walks. Hiking enthusiasts will find a wealth of trails to explore. The Cleveland Way National Trail, spanning 109 miles from Helmsley to Filey, offers spectacular views of both moorland and coastline. For a challenging yet rewarding hike, try the Cold Moor and Urra Moor Walk, which takes you to the Wainstones rock crags and offers some of the most spectacular views in the park.
Quaint villages. Dotted throughout the park are charming villages that seem frozen in time. Visit Hutton-le-Hole, with its idyllic stream and grazing sheep, or explore Thornton-le-Dale, famous for its thatched cottages and babbling beck. These villages offer a glimpse into traditional Yorkshire life and are perfect spots for a cream tea or a pint of local ale.
2. 🏖️ Whitby
Coastal charm. The seaside town of Whitby, about an hour’s drive from York, is a must-visit destination. This picturesque fishing port is steeped in history and literary significance, most notably as the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s “Dracula”.
Gothic grandeur. No visit to Whitby is complete without climbing the famous 199 steps to Whitby Abbey. These atmospheric ruins, perched dramatically on the cliff, offer stunning views over the town and sea. The nearby Whitby Museum provides fascinating insights into the town’s maritime history and its connection to Captain James Cook.
Culinary delights. Whitby is renowned for its seafood, particularly its fish and chips. Try the award-winning Trenchers Restaurant or the historic Magpie Café for some of the best fish and chips in the UK. Don’t miss the chance to sample Whitby’s famous kippers at Fortune’s Kippers, a traditional smokehouse dating back to 1872.
3. 🏰 Castle Howard
Stately splendor. Castle Howard, one of England’s finest stately homes, offers a magnificent day out. This 18th-century residence, located just 15 miles north of York, is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture set in over 1,000 acres of breathtaking landscape.
Artistic treasures. The house interiors are a treasure trove of artistic and historical significance. Visitors can admire the grand rooms filled with world-renowned works of art, furniture, and decorative objects collected by generations of the Howard family. The stunning dome of the Great Hall and the Temple of the Four Winds in the gardens are particular highlights.
Seasonal events. Castle Howard hosts a variety of events throughout the year, from outdoor concerts and theater performances to Christmas markets and festive illuminations. The Castle Howard Farm Shop and Garden Centre also offer locally sourced produce and plants, perfect for taking a piece of Yorkshire home with you.
Family-friendly activities. For those visiting with children, Castle Howard’s Skelf Island Adventure Playground provides hours of fun. Set among the trees, this treetop adventure encourages imaginative play and exploration.
FAQ about Things To Do in York ❔
What’s the best time to visit York?
Summer offers the best weather, but it’s also the busiest season. Spring and autumn provide a good balance of pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Is York suitable for a weekend trip?
Yes, a weekend trip is perfect for exploring York’s main attractions and getting a taste of its rich history and culture.
What’s unique about York?
York is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, Viking heritage, and reputation as one of Europe’s most haunted cities. The city’s Roman roots, Georgian elegance, and Victorian innovations all contribute to its unique character.
Are there any ghost tours in York?
Yes, York is famous for its ghost tours. The award-winning Original Ghost Walk of York and the theatrical Ghost Trail of York are popular choices for those seeking spooky experiences.
What are some good shopping areas in York?
The Shambles and its surrounding area offer a mix of independent shops and boutiques. For high street brands, visit the Coppergate Shopping Centre or York Designer Outlet for discounted luxury goods.
