Places to Visit in York North Yorkshire

York is an historic city located in North Yorkshire, rich in history and culture. Its roots can be traced back to a Roman fortress, adding to its allure as a destination of great historical significance. Today, York stands as a compelling place to visit within the picturesque region of Yorkshire, boasting a plethora of tourist attractions that cater to a diverse range of interests and preferences.

Places to Visit in York North Yorkshire

  • National Railway Museum York North Yorkshire

    National Railway Museum

    The National Railway Museum hosts some famous trains including the Mallard, sometimes the Flying Scotsman, The Coronation Scot, the only Japanese bullet outside of Japan and many more!

    The museum is currently partially open owing to refurbishment, please check the website for details!

  • Jorvik Viking Centre Attraction in York

    Jorvik Viking Centre

    The Jorvik Viking Centre is located on the site of an archeolgical dig where thousands of Viking artefacts were discovered. Many of these are featured in the attraction. Simply sit back and enjoy the time travel ride through the Viking area using sight, sound and smells to relive the Viking era!

  • York Dungeon Attraction in North Yorkshire

    York Dungeon Attraction

    The York Dungeon Attraction is not simply a museum, it relives York’s darkest tales through theatrical drama along with sounds, sights and smells!

  • Yorkshire Museum York

    The Yorkshire Museum

    The Yorkshire Museum is located inside York’s Museum Gardens in one of the country’s first purpose built museums. The Yorkshire Museum consists of various exhibitions featuring historical artefacts from the local area.

  • York Castle Museum North Yorkshire

    York Castle Museum

    Constructed on the site of one of York’s two castles, The Castle Museum consists of various exhibitions pertaining to the area. There is even a Victorian Street, Kirkgate, that has been rebuilt brick by brick inside the museum!

  • York Treasurer's House North Yorkshire

    Treasurer's House

    The York Treasurers House Attraction is a town house that was purchased by Frank Green. A few years later it was quickly turned into a lavish home in time for a visit from Edward VII. The house and gardens are well worth a visit!

  • York Chocolate Story North Yorkshire

    York Chocolate Story Attraction

    One of York’s predominant industries was the art of chocolate making with the Terry, Rowntree and Craven families being the famous confectioners. The York Chocolate Story reveals more about York’s sweetest industry!

  • York Art Gallery North Yorkshire

    York Art Gallery

    York Art Gallery provides some amazing artwork and much of it is free admission currently. However, the additional special exhibitions do carry an admission fee. In any case, York Art Gallery is one of York’s top attractions!

  • The Shambles York in North Yorkshire

    The Shambles

    The Shambles denotes a street of butchers where meat was slaughtered and sold on window ledges. The buildings almost touch in the middle to provide a cooling shadow, protecting the meat being sold below from sunlight.

  • West towers of Yorks Minster in North Yorkshire

    York Minster

    York Minster is the most dominant structure in York England, and it derives as far back as Norman times. It took over 250 years to build as it was extended several times. It is open to the public and also hosts a museum in its undercroft.

  • York City Walls and Moat

    York City Walls

    Why not take a stroll on the medieval city walls dating back to the medieval period? You can walk the full circular trail calling at its gateways and postern towers.

  • Merchant Adventurers Hall York

    Merchant Adventurers Hall

    The Merchant Adventurers Hall Attraction is a timber framed building that was constructed for charity, business and worship by the local community at the time. Today you can visit the Merchant Adventurers Hall as well as enjoy food and drink in the popular cafe here!

  • Fairfax House York North Yorkshire

    Fairfax House Attraction

    The Fairfax House Attraction is a Georgian town house designed by architect John Carr (who also designed many other properties in the Yorkshire area). The house has some extraordinary pieces inside and the stucco ceilings are certainly a feature!

  • The Hole in Wand Attraction York

    The Hole in Wand Attraction

    The Hole in Wand Attraction can be found opposite the Jorvik Viking Centre and is a magical round of golf you’ll ever play!

  • Barley Hall Attraction in York

    Barley Hall Attraction

    York’s Barley Hall is an amazing find as it was discovered after demolishing some offices during the 1980’s. The timber framed building has been lovingly restored and it once housed the Priors of Nostell as well as early Lord Mayors of York.

  • St Mary's Abbey ruins in York North Yorkshire

    St Mary's Abbey

    St Mary’s Abbey is the largest walled abbey in the country. Although the abbey is a ruin owing to the Suppression of the Monasteries under Henry VIII, you can still see the walls and towers today.

  • King's Manor in York North Yorkshire

    The King's Manor

    The Kings Manor was once an abbots lodging and it has been extended twice. This impressive building was spared from the Suppression of the Monasteries and you can study archeology here.

  • York Observatory in the Museum Gardens

    The Museum Gardens

    The Museum Gardens provide a peaceful respite but also provides a great deal of popular attractions including St Mary’s Abbey, The Yorkshire Museum, York Observatory, The Hospitium, The Multangular Tower, St Leonard’s Hospital and more.

  • Clifford's Tower in York, North Yorkshire

    Clifford's Tower (Castle Keep)

    York had two castles that stood side by side with the River Ouse flowing in between. They were both constructed in wood at the time of William the Conqueror. The castle at the site of Clifford’s Tower was upgraded to stone whereas the other was left to disintegrate over time. What we see today is the castle keep on its motte but the complex once extended over the Eye of York and the Castle Museum.

  • York Army Museum York

    York Army Museum

    The York Army Museum is the home of the Prince of Wales own regiment and dragoon guards. You can find the York Army Museum behind the Clifford’s Tower attraction.

  • Holgate Windmill in York

    Holgate Windmill

    Holgate Windmill is just out of the town centre heading towards the suburb of Acomb. It is Yorkshire’s oldest working windmill and it features open days and other events. Please refer to their website below for more details.

  • The Hospitium Museum Gardens in York

    The Hospitium

    The Hospitium is a very attractive timber framed building in the Museum Gardens opposite the abbey. It is not entirely understood what its purpose was, but it is thought that it was to accommodate visitors to St Mary’s Abbey who weren’t permitted to stay in the abbey itself. The arches at the side of the abbey were part of a boathouse that suggests it may have had a warehouse function also.

  • York Observatory in North Yorkshire

    York Observatory

    York Observatory may look quite small to the naked eye but it came about in 1832. It is the oldest working observatory in Yorkshire. It once housed Thomas Cooke’s 4 inch refractor telescope. Today it houses an 1811 clock that tells the time by the position of stars!

  • The Multangular Tower in York Museum Gardens

    The Multangular Tower

    The Multangular Tower is one of the oldest structures in York. The stones below the orange band, the smaller stones, are Roman in origin. The larger stones above are medieval. This is the only surviving Roman wall in York and the tower is one of several that originally existed, fortifying the Roman fortress that exist in the Minster area.

  • RSPB Attraction in York

    RSPB Attraction

    In the Museum Gardens you can oftentimes find the RSPB displaying some impressive Birds of Prey. You can find out more about the RSPB through the link below.

  • Grand Opera House Clifford Street York

    Grand Opera House

    The Grand Opera House is not an ancient monument as it has exist since 1911, but it hosts some great entertainment for all ages.

  • York Theatre Royal North Yorkshire

    York Theatre Royal

    The York Theatre Royal is owned by the York Conservation Trust (as is the De Grey Rooms next door) and it hosts some fantastic live entertainment. For information about what’s on please follow the link below.

  • Joseph Rowntree Theatre

    Joseph Rowntree Theatre

    Astride from the city centre is the Joseph Rowntree Theatre that is operated by the community. It is a 365 venue for all manner of entertainment!

  • York Barbican North Yorkshire

    York Barbican

    The York Barbican is the largest music and arts venue in the city and can be located by the city walls at Fishergate Bar. It is renown for the UK Snooker Championships.

  • Skeldergate Bridge York North Yorkshire

    Skeldergate Bridge York North Yorkshire

    Skeldergate Bridge is one of the three main bridges across the River Ouse. It was once a toll bridge and the first arch used to open up for taller vessels to pass through. The motor-house was were Dyl’s Restaurant exists today.

  • Ouse Bridge in York North Yorkshire

    Ouse Bridge

    Ouse Bridge is the oldest bridge in York but the current structure is not the first. The first bridge was further upstream built by the Romans. The Danes reconstructed the bridge but it then collapsed at a later date. At the current location, the previous bridge had shops at either side on the bridge and was formed of three arches, the tallest and widest in the centre. It even featured the country’s first public toilets! This too collapsed, but fortunately the current structure is much more robust!

  • Lendal Bridge with Lendal and Barker Towers York North Yorkshire

    Lendal Bridge with Barker & Lendal Towers

    You can find Lendal Bridge, Lendal Tower and Barker Tower beside each other. The rectangular tower is Lendal Tower and the almost coned shaped tower is Barker Tower. They were both built in the same period although Barker Tower was a ferryman’s residence before Lendal Bridge was constructed. In medieval times, a huge iron chain was stretched between the towers to stop ships leaving without paying their murage (or taxes). Lendal Bridge was constructed after the first bridge collapsed during its construction. The materials were transported to Scarborough and now forms Valley Bridge over Ramsdale.

  • York Mansion House North Yorkshire

    York Mansion House

    The York Mansion House is probably the oldest purpose built home for a Lord Mayor in the country. It is open to the public and as you can imagine, the interior goes way beyond lavish!

  • Yorkshire Museum of Farming York

    Yorkshire Museum of Farming

    The Yorkshire Museum of Farming is found at Murton on the outskirts of York. It features all manner of local exhibits pertaining to farming as well as reflecting the local agricultural heritage.

  • Jospeh Rowntree Park in York

    Joseph Rowntree Park Attraction

    Joseph Rowntree Park was a provision from the choclatiers to those factory workers who fell during the First World War. Today it provides not only idyllic gardens but six tennis courts, a skate park, basket ball court, reading cafe, children’s play area, and two tennis tables!

  • Goddard's House and Gardens York

    Goddard's House and Gardens

    Goddard’s House and Gardens was the family home of the Terry’s family (famous for Terry’s Chocolate Orange). Today it is under the care of the National Trust and open to the public. It even serves as offices for the National Trust for the Yorkshire area!

York Guided Tours in Video

We have produced three videos reflecting York’s historic attractions with a concise guide to what these are. To watch the videos, please press the play button opposite.

You might want to subscribe to our YouTube channel found at https://youtube.com/@greatyorkshiredayout

We will be producing further videos on an ongoing basis giving you even more inspiration to plan your day out in Yorkshire.

 York FAQs

  • York, located in North Yorkshire, England, is a city with a rich and diverse history spanning over 2,000 years. Here are some key points in York's history:

    1. Roman Era: York, known then as Eboracum, was founded by the Romans in 71 AD under Emperor Vespasian. It quickly became an important military and administrative center of Roman Britain. The city was the seat of Roman emperors such as Septimius Severus and Constantius Chlorus, and the headquarters of the Roman Ninth Legion.

    2. Anglo-Saxon and Viking Periods: After the Romans withdrew from Britain in the early 5th century, York remained a significant settlement. It became the capital of the Anglo-Saxon kingdom of Northumbria in the 7th century. York was invaded and controlled by the Vikings in the late 9th century, who renamed it Jorvik and made it a major trading hub.

    3. Medieval Period: York flourished in the medieval period as an important ecclesiastical center. York Minster, one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Europe, was built during this time and remains a symbol of the city. York was also a thriving market town and center of wool trading.

    4. Wars of the Roses: York played a significant role in the Wars of the Roses (15th century), with the city switching hands between the Lancastrians and Yorkists several times. The conflict left its mark on York's history and architecture.

    5. Industrial Revolution: In the 18th and 19th centuries, York experienced industrial growth, particularly in railways and confectionery production. The railway industry brought prosperity and connected York to other major cities, enhancing its importance as a transportation hub.

    6. Modern Era: Today, York is a vibrant city known for its historical landmarks, including York Minster, the City Walls, and the Shambles (a medieval street). It attracts millions of tourists each year who come to explore its rich heritage, museums, and cultural events.

    York's history as a Roman fortress, Viking settlement, medieval powerhouse, and modern tourist destination underscores its enduring significance and appeal as a city steeped in history and cultural heritage.

  • Filey is a small town and civil parish located on the North Yorkshire coast in England. It is situated between Scarborough and Bridlington, and it lies on the North Sea coast. Filey is known for its sandy beach and has been a popular seaside resort since Victorian times.

  • York is rich with history and offers a variety of attractions that appeal to visitors from around the world. Some of the most popular attractions in York include:

    1. York Minster: A magnificent Gothic cathedral, York Minster is the largest medieval cathedral in Northern Europe. Visitors can explore its stunning architecture, climb the Central Tower for panoramic views of the city, and learn about its history in the Undercroft and Treasury.

    2. York City Walls: The well-preserved medieval city walls encircle the historic core of York. Walking along the walls provides scenic views of the city and its landmarks, including the Minster and Clifford's Tower.

    3. The Shambles: One of the best-preserved medieval streets in Europe, the Shambles is known for its narrow, timber-framed buildings that lean over the street. It's a charming area filled with shops, cafes, and boutiques.

    4. York Castle Museum: Housed in a former prison building, this museum offers a fascinating journey through York's history. Exhibits include reconstructions of Victorian streets, collections of social history artifacts, and displays on York's role during World War I and World War II.

    5. Jorvik Viking Centre: Experience York's Viking heritage at this interactive museum, which features reconstructions of Viking-age streets and artifacts discovered during archaeological excavations.

    6. National Railway Museum: Located near York Railway Station, this museum houses a vast collection of locomotives and railway memorabilia, including iconic trains such as the Flying Scotsman and the Mallard.

    7. York's Chocolate Story: Discover the history of chocolate in York, which has a rich heritage as a center for chocolate manufacturing. Visitors can learn about chocolate production, sample chocolate treats, and even make their own chocolates.

    8. York Museum Gardens: These botanical gardens are located near York Minster and offer a tranquil escape with beautifully landscaped grounds, Roman ruins, and the Yorkshire Museum, which showcases archaeological finds and exhibits on natural history.

    9. York Dungeon: A theatrical attraction that brings York's dark history to life through interactive shows, special effects, and live actors. It covers gruesome tales from the city's past, including Viking raids and the plague.

    10. York Art Gallery: Situated in a beautiful Victorian building, this gallery houses an extensive collection of paintings, ceramics, and decorative arts. It features works by renowned artists such as Lowry, Hockney, and Turner.

    These attractions, along with York's charming streets, vibrant markets, and lively cultural scene, make it a popular destination for history enthusiasts, families, and anyone interested in exploring England's rich heritage.

  • Yes, York is generally considered to be dog-friendly, offering a range of amenities and attractions that welcome visitors with dogs. Here are some considerations for dog owners visiting York:

    1. City Walls and Parks: Dogs are allowed on the York City Walls, which provide scenic views of the city. Many of York's parks, such as Museum Gardens and Rowntree Park, also welcome dogs on leads.

    2. York Minster and York Castle Museum: While dogs are not allowed inside York Minster or York Castle Museum, they are often welcome in the outdoor areas and gardens surrounding these attractions.

    3. Shops and Cafes: Some shops and cafes in York have outdoor seating areas where dogs are allowed. It's polite to check with staff before entering with your dog, especially in smaller establishments.

    4. Public Transport: Dogs are generally allowed on local buses operated by First York, though it's advisable to check their specific policies regarding pets.

    5. Accommodation: There are hotels, guesthouses, and self-catering accommodations in York that are dog-friendly, offering facilities and rooms where dogs are permitted. It's recommended to inquire about pet policies and any additional charges before booking.

    6. Local Regulations: Always be mindful of local regulations regarding dogs, such as keeping dogs on leads where required and cleaning up after them. Dog waste bins are provided in many public areas.

    7. Outdoor Areas: York offers plenty of opportunities for walking and exploring with your dog, including riverside paths along the Ouse and the scenic surroundings of the city's parks and gardens.

    While dogs may not be allowed in all indoor attractions or restaurants, York's outdoor spaces and accommodating establishments make it a pleasant destination for visitors exploring the city with their furry companions.

  • York can be suitable for individuals with poor mobility, but it's important to consider the following factors:

    1. York Minster and Attractions: York Minster, while a must-see, has limited accessibility due to its historic nature. There are ramps and lifts to certain areas, but not all parts of the cathedral may be accessible to those with mobility issues. Similarly, some other historic attractions in York, such as York Castle Museum and the city walls, may have limited accessibility due to steps and uneven surfaces.

    2. City Streets: The city center of York has a mix of narrow, cobbled streets and more modern paved areas. Some areas may be challenging to navigate for individuals using wheelchairs or mobility scooters due to uneven surfaces and occasional steep inclines.

    3. Transportation: York has accessible public transportation options, including buses that are equipped with ramps or low-floor entry for wheelchair users. Taxis are also available, with some specifically offering accessible vehicles.

    4. Accommodation: Many hotels and guesthouses in York offer accessible rooms and facilities. It's advisable to inquire about specific accessibility features, such as accessible bathrooms and entrances, when booking accommodation.

    5. Attraction Accessibility: Some attractions in York have taken steps to improve accessibility, including providing ramps, lifts, and accessible toilets. However, the level of accessibility can vary, so it's recommended to check with individual attractions beforehand.

    6. Tourist Information: The Visit York website and tourist information centers can provide detailed accessibility information for attractions, accommodations, and transportation options in the city.

    Overall, while York has historic charm and many attractions to explore, visitors with poor mobility may encounter challenges in certain areas. Planning ahead and researching accessibility information can help ensure a more comfortable and enjoyable visit to York.

Our Review of York Based on Our Visit

Extended Text: York is undeniably a truly remarkable destination that captivates not only history enthusiasts but also visitors of all kinds. The experience of exploring this historically rich city is akin to embarking on a fascinating journey through different eras, where every corner reveals the intricate layers of ancient buildings and iconic landmarks. Whether you're drawn to the engaging exhibits at the National Railway Museum, seeking a thrill at the chilling York Dungeon, or longing for a captivating glimpse into the Viking age at the immersive Jorvik Viking Centre, York boasts a diverse array of attractions that cater to a wide range of interests. If you haven't had the opportunity to immerse yourself in the charm of York yet, we wholeheartedly recommend adding it to your bucket list of must-visit places!

Getting to York in North Yorkshire

  • There are multiple primary A roads providing access to the City of York. These include the A64 connecting from Scarborough, Malton, and Leeds, the A1069 from Hull, the A19 from Selby, along with the A59 from Harrogate and Knaresborough, and the A166 from Driffield. Utilizing the Park and Ride facilities, in addition to bus services, is advised for traveling into York. For further details, please see the section on Getting to York by Bus above.

  • There are multiple long distance bus services that connect to the City of York from various locations. For instance, Coastliner manages buses traveling between Scarborough, Whitby, Pickering, Malton, Tadcaster, and Leeds. East Yorkshire Buses offer services from Beverley, Hull, Market Weighton, and Pocklington, in addition to connections from Ripon, Castle Howard, and onward to Malton, including recently added routes from Helmsley and Ampleforth. Reliance Buses run a route from Thirsk and Easingwold. Arriva Buses provide a service linking York and Selby. Moreover, First Bus and York City Council jointly operate a convenient Park and Ride service accessible from many major A roads leading into the city. By parking at one of the Park and Ride sites at no cost, you can then pay for your bus fare to access the city center, ultimately reducing traffic congestion while potentially saving on parking expenses. These bus services run frequently, typically every ten minutes, ensuring efficient transportation. For assistance in planning your journey, consider utilizing the recommended resources provided.

    Coastliner

    East Yorkshire Buses

    Reliance Bus

    Arriva Buses

    First Bus

    Connexions

    Park and Ride

  • In 1877, York Railway Station gained recognition as the largest station globally upon its construction. Presently, it serves as a hub for various rail services, such as LNER connecting London and Edinburgh, Transpennine Express linking Liverpool, Manchester, and Newcastle, Cross Country Trains facilitating travel between the South West and Scotland, Grand Central services for commuters between London and the North East, as well as Northern Railways offering services from Hull, Bridlington, Selby, Leeds, Harrogate, and Knaresborough. If you are considering a rail journey, here are a few resources to assist in planning your trip.

    London North Eastern Railways

    Transpennine Express

    Grand Central Trains

    Northern Railways

    Cross Country Trains

    National Rail Enquiries