Planning a trip to York, England? This comprehensive guide not only provides all the must-sees, but also gives you the insider scoop on where to eat and stay.
Whether this is your first visit or you’ve been before, our York travel guide will ensure that you get the most out of your time in this beautiful city. So let’s go and explore!
Introduction to York
York is a historic city in northern England that was founded by the Romans in 71 AD. The city has a rich heritage with many fine buildings, museums and galleries. York is also a popular tourist destination with a lively city centre and good shopping facilities.
York is a vibrant, cosmopolitan destination steeped with history and culture from the centuries that have passed by. There are many attractions to explore, including York Minster (the largest Gothic cathedral in Britain) and The Shambles – a street of shops built during the 1300s. Other major attractions are the National Railway Museum, Castle Howard and York Racecourse.
The city is served by excellent transport links, making it easy to get to from other cities in northern England such as Leeds and Manchester. There are also regular trains to London which take around 2 hours and 45 minutes.
Things to See in York
York is a historic city in the north of England that is renowned for its picturesque medieval architecture. The City of York has a rich heritage dating back to the Roman era, and there are plenty of things to see and do in this vibrant city.
Some of the top attractions in York include the magnificent York Minster cathedral, the ancient walls that encircle the city centre, and the world-famous Clifford’s Tower. Other popular tourist destinations include the Jorvik Viking Centre, the National Railway Museum, and York Castle Museum.
Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just want to enjoy some shopping and sightseeing, you’ll find plenty to keep you occupied in York.
1. York Minster
The magnificent York Minster is the largest Gothic cathedral in Northern Europe and the most important example of Gothic architecture in Yorkshire. Its intricate stained glass windows, grand towers, and awe-inspiring medieval interior make it one of the most beautiful buildings in the world.
2. City Walls
York is known as ‘the walled city’ because of its remarkable fortifications, which were built in around 200 AD by the Roman Empire. The walls still encircle a large part of the city centre, making it easy to explore on foot or even a bike tour. Just don’t forget your camera!
3. Jorvik Viking Centre
This interactive museum gives you an insight into life in York during Viking times. You can watch costumed actors living out their daily routines and visit a reconstructed Viking settlement with buildings that have been carefully recreated from archaeological finds. It is definitely worth adding to your itinerary!
4. National Railway Museum
For those who have a passion for all things on wheels, the National Railway Museum is not to be missed. Take a ride on a classic steam engine or learn about some of Britain’s most iconic locomot ives. There are also several vintage carriages, as well as interactive exhibits.
5. York Castle Museum
The York Castle Museum is one of the most popular destinations in the city and is home to a fascinating collection of historic artefacts and objects from Roman, Medieval and Victorian times. You can also explore life-size staged rooms from various eras, including a reconstructed World War I street scene.
6. Shambles Market
This ancient market dates back to the 14th century and is still going strong today. It has an eclectic mix of shops selling everything from secondhand books to handmade jewellery, toys and antiques. Don’t forget to grab a snack while you’re there – you won’t want to miss out on some delicious local food!
7. York Art Gallery
This stunning building is home to a world-class collection of European art, from medieval altarpieces to modern works. You can also explore special exhibitions throughout the year that showcase both national and international pieces.
8. Fairfax House
Fairfax House is an 18th-century Georgian townhouse built for the widow of Viscount Charles Fairfax. This exquisite building has been carefully restored, and it showcases beautiful examples of Georgian furniture and art that will transport you back in time.
9. York Dungeons
Enjoy a uniquely spooky experience at York Dungeons – a theme park of sorts with dark medieval chambers and a cast of actors who bring the past to life. Reenactments focus on some of the city’s darkest moments, as well as some funny tales that are sure to entertain the whole family!
10. York Racecourse
If you’re looking for a thrilling day out, head to York Racecourse. It is one of the world’s most famous horse racing venues and it has been in operation since the mid-18th century. Enjoy the races and have a flutter on your favourite horses!
Best Hotels in York
York is home to a variety of hotels that cater to all budgets and preferences. From luxury accommodations with all the bells and whistles to cozy bed and breakfasts, there’s something for everyone in this historic city.
For those looking for a luxurious stay, the Grand Hotel & Spa York is a perfect choice. This 4-star hotel offers elegant rooms with views of the city, an on-site spa, and a delicious restaurant. For travelers on a budget, the City Inn York is a great option. This 3-star hotel provides clean and comfortable accommodations at an affordable price.
Whether you’re visiting York for business or pleasure, there’s sure to be a hotel that meets your needs. Browse our list of the best hotels in York to find the perfect one for your next trip.
- Grand Hotel & Spa York
- York Marriott Hotel, UK
- DoubleTree by Hilton York
- City Inn York
- Staycity Aparthotels Monkgate – York
- The Principal York Hotel
- Ibis Budget York Centre – Micklegate Road
- Grays Court Hotel & Restaurant, York
- Cambridge Guest House
- Carrying Place Bed and Breakfast
Best Restaurants in York
If you’re looking for a good meal while in York, you won’t have to look far. The city is home to a number of excellent restaurants, serving everything from traditional English cuisine to international fare. Here are just a few of the best places to eat in York.
The Yorkshire Boyd: This restaurant is known for its excellent fish and chips, as well as its hearty breakfasts. If you’re looking for a traditional English meal, this is the place to go.
The Coppergate Tapas Bar: This bar specializes in Spanish tapas, making it the perfect spot for a light lunch or dinner. The dishes are all reasonably priced, so you can sample a few without breaking the bank.
Kalima: This restaurant serves Indian food, and it’s one of the best places to get curry in York. The menu has something for everyone, so even if you’re not a fan of spice, you’ll find something to your taste.
These are just a few of the many great restaurants in York. So whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a sit-down meal, you’ll be sure to find something to your liking.
Nightlife and Entertainment Options in York
York has a great selection of nightlife and entertainment to keep you busy during your stay. From pubs and clubs to live music and theatre, there’s something for everyone.
The city centre is the best place to start your night out, with plenty of bars and clubs to choose from. For a more relaxed evening, head to one of York’s many pubs and enjoy a pint of local ale. Alternatively, catch a show at one of the city’s theatres or live music venues.
If you’re looking for some fun activities to do during the day, York has plenty to offer. The Yorkshire Museum is a great option for history buffs, or you can explore the city’s medieval walls. For those who prefer the outdoors, there are plenty of green spaces to relax in, such as Rowntree Park.
Shopping Centers and Boutiques in York
York is home to a variety of shopping centers and boutiques that offer something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for the latest fashion trends, unique gifts, or just a place to relax and window shop, you’ll find it in York.
The Shambles is one of the most popular shopping areas in York, and for good reason. This medieval street is lined with quaint shops selling everything from books to clothes to handmade gifts. Be sure to stop by The Chocolate Story for a delicious treat!
For upscale shopping, head to Coppergate Shopping Centre. This modern mall is home to high-end retailers like Jo Malone and Mulberry, as well as more budget-friendly stores like H&M and Primark. There are also a number of restaurants and cafes if you need a break from all the shopping.
For unique gifts and local products, check out the independent shops on Fossgate. This street is full of small businesses selling everything from vintage clothing to jewelry to artisanal food items. If you’re looking for something truly special, Fossgate is the place to find it.
Outdoor Activities to Enjoy in York
There’s plenty to do outdoors in York! Take a walk or bike ride through one of the city’s beautiful parks, such as Rowntree Park or Clifton park. Or explore the historic city centre on foot, and take in all the architecture and atmosphere.
If you’re looking for something more adventurous, head to the Yorkshire Dales National Park for hiking, camping, and climbing. There are also several golf courses in and around York if you want to get in a round or two.
Transportation Around the City of York
York is a historic city in the north of England that is well-connected to the rest of the country by road, rail, and air. The city is served by an extensive bus network, and there are also a number of taxi and car-hire companies operating in York.
For those travelling by car, there are a number of park-and-ride schemes in operation around the city, which offer convenient parking and easy access to York’s public transport network. There are also a number of on-street parking options available, although these can be more expensive and may be subject to time restrictions.
For those travelling by train, York railway station is located just outside the city centre and offers regular services to London, Leeds, Manchester, Edinburgh, and other major UK cities. There are also a number of smaller stations located within the city itself.
The nearest airport to York is Leeds Bradford Airport, which is located just over 30 miles away from the city centre. There are regular bus and coach services linking the airport with York, as well as a direct train service that runs from Leeds Bradford Airport to York railway station.
York Travel Tips and Tricks
Before you travel to York, it is important to plan your trip and know what to expect. This York Travel Guide will help you do just that with insider tips and tricks.
To make the most of your trip, start by booking your accommodations in advance. There are many hotels and bed and breakfasts located throughout the city, so be sure to research your options before making a decision. Once you have your accommodation sorted, take some time to familiarize yourself with the city layout. Use a map or GPS system to mark out key locations like your hotel, restaurants, attractions, and transportation hubs. This will save you time and frustration when trying to navigate the city streets.
When it comes to getting around, York is very pedestrian-friendly. You can easily walk from one end of the city center to the other in under an hour. If you’re looking to explore beyond the city center, there are plenty of public transportation options available including buses and trains. Taxis are also readily available if you prefer not to use public transport.
Now that you know how to get around, it’s time to start planning your itinerary. York is home to a number of world-famous museums and historical sites so be sure to include some of these on your list of things to do. Other popular attractions include the Shambles – a medieval shopping street lined with quaint shops and cafes – as well as Clifford’s Tower which offers stunning views over the city skyline.
Finally, take some time to sample the local cuisine. York is known for its traditional British dishes and you won’t want to miss out on the chance to give them a try. Some of the must-try foods include Yorkies – a type of cake cooked with currants and treacle – as well as Yorkshire pudding made from eggs and flour and served with gravy or gravy base. Bon appetit!
York is an incredible destination to explore, offering everything from historic monuments and castles to immense galleries and parks. From the rich culture and history of the city’s streets to its eclectic restaurant scene, there really is something for everyone in York. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing weekend getaway or a more adventurous holiday filled with exploration and discovery, York has it all! We hope our guide has helped you plan your perfect trip – happy travels!
