The old-walled city offers street cuisine, chocolate sampling, grassy areas, and ghost tours.
The American poet Adrienne Rich once said, "The moment of change is the only poem." York's development is also proceeding apace. In other words, a tour of the city may involve Romans and Vikings, paranormal events, Gothic spires, and moody snickets, as well as cutting-edge galleries, museums, independent eateries, and hipster hangouts. And that's precisely why it's fantastic for a weekend or longer.
Look under the surface of the city to discover its true pulse. York's crowning treasure, the enormous, honey-hued Minster, is the city's focal point, and the medieval mash-up of The Shambles with its eerie ginnels has Harry Potter written all over it. There are many lesser-known activities, a lively artistic culture, and crowded local neighborhoods. If you're unsure of what to do or see, ask a local; people from Yorkshire have a reputation for being honest.
One benefit of visiting York is how close it is to the Yorkshire countryside and shore; it only takes about an hour to get to more spectacularly remote locations like Runswick Bay or Sandsend, the Yorkshire Dales, or the Howardian Hills. With frequent train service running less than two hours from London to York, it's a more environmentally friendly UK getaway.
The trick is having the finest insider advice because York and its surrounds are bursting with historically significant attractions. For our insider recommendations on what to do in York, keep reading. If you're searching for additional advice on where to stay, visit our guide to York.
1. Climb York Minster for the best vistas.
The majestic York Minster, York's crown treasure, must be seen. Northern Europe's best medieval Gothic cathedral, built in 1470, is a stunning example of the style and is a work of art even from the exterior. Once inside, it's difficult to resist falling in love with all of its desirable characteristics, like the Chapter House's elaborate and elegant roof, the spacious, revered halls, and one of the primary attractions, the exquisitely constructed stained glass windows like the Rose Window.
Book a Hidden Minster Tour to view secret locations that are often off-limits to the public, such as the Chapter House roof and the former Mason's Loft. Take in the breathtaking 360-degree views of the city and beyond, all the way to the chalk White Horse of Kilburn, once you are above the terracotta roofs. The ascent was well worth it.
Insider tip: The adjoining Treasurer's House, which is less well-known, is a treat. Choose a guided tour to learn more about the building's illustrious past and tenants from expert guides.
Address: York Minster, Deangate, York, YO1 7HH
URL: yorkminster.org
2. Wait in line at the renowned Bettys
There is something special about Bettys, a municipal landmark without a doubt. Get a good seat in the main café, which is delightfully retro, where service members dressed in monochrome offer amazing cuisine and confections, cakes, and pastries to lucky patrons.
The cafe's menu has the famous swiss rosti (pro tip: order it for the morning), homemade schnitzel, fish and chips, and custom burgers, among other standout items. Order coffee, which is served with cream and all the pleasantries in a silver pot.
If you only have a few minutes to stop by, some takeaway patisserie may brighten your day. WFH's vanilla slices are fluffy and crisp, sweet with vanilla flavor, and filled with custard cream.
Insider's tip: The seasonal window displays are a well-liked aspect, and children will especially like the Christmas treats and the Easter bunny.
Location: Bettys Café Tea Rooms, 6-8 St. Helen's Square, York, YO1 8QP.
Site URL: bettys.co.uk
3. Go to Shambles & Shambles Market
The Shambles in York wins the title of busiest street. It would be negligent not to add that York's butchers formerly called this ancient cobblestone street home; now, it is a beloved sight. Visit stores like Shambles Kitchen, Monk Bar Chocolatiers, and The Shop That Must Not Be Named. A fishmonger, a butcher, a baker, food, flower, and craft markets, independent stores, and restaurants can all be found at the nearby Shambles Market.
You may sample cuisine from all around the world, snag some handmade goods, and treat yourself to a bouquet of your favorite flowers in the little market area. We recommend Krep, Dough Eyed Pizza, and Stam and Maria Greek Street Food.
Insider tip: get to the long-running pie shop The Shambles Sausage and Pie Company before noon to get the best pies.
4. Stroll York's “Bar Walls”
Start by taking a stroll around York's City Walls, sometimes referred to as the "Bar Walls"; they are an important part of the city's history. The ancient Roman walls surrounding the city were built to protect it, and there are still about two miles (3.4 km) of them. Travelers who walk the medieval walls may get the greatest views of the city from every aspect. The entire route takes around two hours, but because there are so many entries and exits, it's also feasible to do a quick stroll.
Insider tip: The area with views of the York Minster's gothic splendor, the Grays Court Hotel, and its lovely gardens are one to choose from. Better still, eat lunch there on the way into town because the gardens there are perfect for taking your time on a warm summer day. Take the kids on a fallen tree watch to experience the kaleidoscope of hues up close.
5. Visit the museums in York
You could spend many days exploring York's museums since there are so many of them. Visit the York Art Gallery for culture and art, then get a coffee at the nearby Sketch. Children may see Yorkshire's Jurassic World at the Yorkshire Museum, and everyone can view more than 400 years of York's history at the York Castle Museum. The best portion of York Castle still standing and the historic seat of administration for the north of England, Clifford's Tower, is next door and offers a panoramic view of the city from the viewing deck.
Insider's tip: The National Railway Museum is perhaps the most stunning (and cost-free) museum. The world's fastest steam train, the Mallard, or the Japanese bullet train, the Shinkansen, may all be seen here. A trainspotter's dream. There will be a calendar of events to commemorate the Flying Scotsman's 100th year of service beginning in February 2023.
6. Explore the parks and gardens
York's Museum Gardens are a must-see year-round—pack a picnic and enjoy the flowers. In addition to the large historic ruins and chairs scattered around the gardens, there is plenty of room amid the colorful plants and animals. While adults like visiting The Star Inn the City's waterside patio, children enjoy spotting the neighborhood squirrels and peacocks on the grounds.
Another York icon, York Explore Library, which is also the city archive's home, is accessible, as are nearby riverbank walks. The quiet archives on the top floor of this Walter Brierley-designed building, which was first used in 1927, are reminiscent of "Trinners," or Trinity College Dublin.
Other nearby parks and gardens to check out include the immaculate Homestead Park and the well-liked Rowntree Park, a fantastic park close to the center with walking trails through the woods, playgrounds, a skatepark, and a library café.
Visit the hidden garden at Stillingfleet Lodge Gardens, located in the charming town of Stillingfleet just outside the city. Get lost in its maze of gardens and forest of greenery, which is a labor of love by a local family, and end up at its flower-fringed tea café.
7. Discover the York chocolate dynasties.
As the Chocolate City, York's history in the confectionery industry includes chocolate dynasties like Terry's and Rowntree's; not to mention the famous Yorkie or Chocolate Orange. To learn more about York's sweet-toothed past and to enroll in a session teaching truffle-making, get tickets to York's Chocolate Story.
Pick up a custom-made hot chocolate from York Cocoa Works' menu (try the white chocolate), get some freshly-made fudge as a present from York's Fudge Kitchen, or stop by one of the vintage candy stores and ask for a bag of rhubarb and custard.
Buy some milk chocolate salted caramels from the nearby chocolatier Andrew Thwaites; it will change your life. A cookery school, his latest culinary endeavor, will debut in York in 2023.
8. Schedule a spa day
Finally picking up steam in York is the spa and wellness scene. With customized spa services, wellness programs, and opulent health suites available, York has a strong spa day game.
The Grand Hotel, York's most upscale hotel, offers spa packages that include use to the steam room and crystal pool. Book a spa day there. Visit No. 1 by Guest House for massages; the spa's array of relaxing services is available there. Take home some Pinks Boutique wild mint oil from the therapists at the lavender-scented hotel basement spa. Visit quaint Middlethorpe Hall on the outskirts of York for a spa treatment in the country and tea on the grounds straight out of Bridgerton.
Try a Finnish sauna outdoors at Pool Bridge Farm, which is near York, with Whitby Well Being. Depending on how daring you are, take a chilly dip in the swimming lake with wild water following.
9. Take a bus or ghost tour that is scary.
Who will you call? There are many ghost stories and sightings in York, which has been dubbed the "most haunted city in Europe," including the Grey Lady at York Theatre Royal. Numerous of York's famous structures have reported paranormal activity, and thus, there is always a long line for the tiny ghost mementos from The York Ghost Merchants.
The York Ghost Bus Tour, The Original Ghost Walk of York, The Bloody Tour of York, and The Deathly Dark Tour are some recommended excursions and walks.
Visit The Golden Fleece, which is said to be York's most haunted bar and is said to be home to 15 spirits. If all else fails, you can always go while the mesh ghosts are on exhibit in York Museum Gardens; each year, these lovely silver-mesh ghosts are scattered around the gardens.
10. Sip tea at The Cat's Whiskers
There is a unique local walking path in York called the York Cat Trail. The concept spread after Sir Stephen Aitcheson placed two cat sculptures on his Low Ousegate building in 1920—possibly to keep away rats—and other people began wearing little cat figurines as charms. To continue the tradition, architect Tom Adams began creating structures with little black cats perched on top in 1979. There is a considerable selection right now.
You can get on the York Cat Trail at the Cat Gallery Shop. The city's and its environs' gorgeous felines are all featured on the walking route.
Insider tip: finish by going to The Cat's Whiskers, York's only cat café. Join the cats for a cup of tea or watch the purr-fest.
Address: The Cat's Whiskers, 46 Goodramgate, York, YO1 7LF
Internet addresses: thecatswhiskersyork.co.uk
11. Attend a race.
As previously dressed and booted visitors depart the racetrack looking disheveled, the York Races bring people to the South Bank neighborhood during the racing season. Truth be told, for locals, there's sometimes a comedic scene or three. However, having quick access to York Racecourse and its calendar of events is a boon because it offers more than just horse racing.
Numerous well-known events, including concerts, conferences, fairs, and exhibitions, are held at the location. The CAMRA Beer and Cider Festival is a staple of the Music Showcase Weekend, which also features live music performances by Madness and racing.
Anime fans should attend Comic-Con, which is a fun exhibition.
Address: York Racecourse, Racecourse Road and Knavesmire Road, York, YO23 1EX
URL: yorkracecourse.co.uk
12. Look for the best historic pubs.
Where do you begin in a city with more than 365 drinking establishments? There are cozy, vintage pubs, chic wine bars, and cocktail lounges. However, York excels at traditional pubs.
The Guy Fawkes Inn, with its delightfully crooked wooden flooring and history lesson on Yorkshire's renowned plotter, is one of the notable pubs to note. One of our favorites for a more contemporary rendition is the beer garden at The Fossgate Social.
Observer advice: visit The Blue Bell. Your itinerary should include a visit to York's tiniest bar, a little wood-paneled Edwardian gem that dates back to 1798. Once inside, the atmosphere is reminiscent of your grandmother's living room in a nice way. Go for the friendly conversation and excellent service; they'll never forget your order here.
13. Attend a festival or browse independent stores.
Because there are so many independent retailers, manufacturers, and bakers in York, it's simple to support the community. Visit Shambles Market, which is right in the middle, or Goodramgate, Fossgate, or the Fifth Quarter of Gillygate and Bootham, which are all located just outside the city limits. Once you're in the suburbs, Bishopthorpe Road is the place to go.
York has more and more festivals every year, such as the York Ice Trail, Jorvik Viking Festival, York Chocolate Festival, York Food and Drink Festival, York Festival of Ideas, Fossgate Festival, York Pride, York Christmas Festival, York Fashion Week, and so on. To experience the energy, it's worth scheduling a trip around one of the major festivals.
Observe the stars or take part in an astrophotography class during the Dark Skies Festival at the North York Moors National Park, which is located just outside the city.
From street food and chocolate tastings to green spaces and ghost tours, these are the 15 best things to do in York. https://t.co/U4cgAqkL3m pic.twitter.com/WvYNL2Ge0a
— Condé Nast Traveller (@cntraveller) January 25, 2023
14. Purchase tickets for a concert or a community disco
York has a vibrant theater industry, but the key places to watch out for are York Theatre Royal, The Grand Opera House, and York Barbican, which all regularly offer performances and events from across the world. Everyman York, formerly The Odeon, provides a premium moviegoing experience. The compact screening rooms, plush seats, and in-theater restaurant make it the only place to go for movie night. Choose from the newest films or a real classic like It's a Wonderful Life at Christmas for the finest tickets in town.
Secret tip: The Crescent, a former working men's club, is the hippest performance and live music venue with a full schedule of events featuring gigs, DJs, pool, billiards, video games, and, of course, local ales. Consider The Escape Club, a sizable public disco open to anyone.
15. Be green and recycle the planets
It's simple to access lovely hikes and cycling trails because York is conveniently positioned within striking distance of the rough Yorkshire countryside. One of the insiders' favorites is to cycle the planets, traveling via the York Solar System path from York to Naburn.
This neighborhood route (6.4 miles, 10 km) follows the former East Coast mainline railway and is a size representation of the solar system. The route (65), which begins at York Racecourse and travels through the surrounding countryside, includes models of every planet. It stops at Brunswick Organic Nursery before continuing to the small village of Naburn and the locks, a lovely area of York with a picturesque marina and several country loop walks.
Insider's tip: For vistas reminiscent of Constable's paintings of the English countryside, drive to Beningbrough Hall and take the circular walking path with the secret "beach." Other notable rides include the riverside bike from York's city center to Beningbrough Hall and Home Farm.