York Visitor Guide
Welcome to York, a city that beautifully blends rich history with modern charm. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, a shopaholic, or someone looking to soak in beautiful scenery, York has something to offer. Here’s your ultimate guide to make the most of your visit!
York Visitor Guide
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Getting to York
By Train: York is well-connected by train, with direct services from London (about 2 hours), Edinburgh, and Manchester. The York railway station is close to the city center.
By Car: York is accessible via the A1(M), M1, and M62 motorways. There are several Park & Ride facilities on the outskirts.
By Air: The nearest airport is Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA), about 30 miles away.
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Practical Tips
Plan Ahead: Many attractions offer online booking, so check websites for discounts or timed entry.
Start Early: Popular sites like York Minster and the Shambles can get busy, so arrive early to beat the crowds.
Wear Comfortable Shoes: York’s cobbled streets and the walk along the city walls require comfortable footwear.
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Accommodation
Luxury: The Grand York and Middlethorpe Hall & Spa offer a lavish stay.
Mid-Range: Dean Court Hotel and Hotel Indigo York provide comfort and convenience.
Budget: Try YHA York or Travelodge Central for affordable options.
York North Yorkshire
Things to See and Do in York North Yorkshire
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One of the largest cathedrals in Northern Europe, York Minster is an architectural masterpiece. Climb the central tower for stunning views of the city.
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Once part of York Castle, this tower offers panoramic views of the city. It's a great spot for a photo op!
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A historic, narrow, and winding street that dates back to medieval times. Explore quaint shops, cafes, and try some local fudge.
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Learn about York’s history, including a recreated Victorian street and exhibitions about various historical periods.
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Step back into the Viking era with interactive displays and a ride that takes you through a recreated Viking village.
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A restored medieval townhouse offering a glimpse into life during the medieval period.
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A paradise for train enthusiasts, this museum showcases locomotives and railway memorabilia from different eras.
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Explore this grand house with its beautiful rooms and hidden cellar.
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Walk along the ancient city walls, which are the longest medieval town walls in England. It’s about 2 miles long and offers great views.
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One of the finest medieval guildhalls in the world.
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York Food & Drink Festival (September): A great opportunity to sample local produce and dishes.
York Christmas Market (November–December): Get into the festive spirit with charming stalls, mulled wine, and gifts.
York Races: Horse racing events held from May to October, perfect for a fun day out.
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York Designer Outlet: Just outside the city, this outlet offers discounts on designer brands.
Shambles Market: A bustling outdoor market with local crafts, food, and unique finds.
Stonegate & Petergate: Explore these popular shopping streets for a mix of high-street and independent stores.
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Afternoon Tea: Don't miss out on afternoon tea at Bettys Café Tea Rooms, a York institution since 1936.
Traditional Pubs: Visit Ye Olde Starre Inne, the oldest pub in York, or The House of the Trembling Madness for local ales.
Local Specialties: Try Yorkshire puddings, traditional meat pies, and some local fudge.
Fine Dining: York has a variety of restaurants offering international cuisine. Skosh and Le Cochon Aveugle are highly recommended for a fine dining experience.
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General Information
Visit York: https://www.visityork.org
Official guide to York, covering attractions, events, and accommodation options.Welcome to Yorkshire: https://www.yorkshire.com
General information about York and the wider Yorkshire region, including travel tips and things to do.
Attractions
York Minster: https://yorkminster.org
Visit one of the largest and most impressive Gothic cathedrals in Northern Europe.The Shambles: https://www.yorkshambles.co.uk
Explore the famous medieval street, often considered one of the best-preserved in Europe.National Railway Museum: https://www.railwaymuseum.org.uk
Discover the history of rail travel with fascinating exhibits and historic trains.Jorvik Viking Centre: https://www.jorvikvikingcentre.co.uk
Step back in time to the Viking Age with interactive exhibits and a recreated Viking city.York Castle Museum: https://www.yorkcastlemuseum.org.uk
Immerse yourself in York's history with engaging exhibits about the city's past.York Dungeon: https://www.thedungeons.com/york
Experience a thrilling and spooky adventure through York’s dark and gruesome history.Clifford’s Tower: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/cliffords-tower
A historic tower with panoramic views of York, located on the site of York Castle.Museum Gardens: https://www.yorkshire.com
A beautiful public garden with historical ruins, a perfect place for a stroll.
Events and Festivals
York Festival of Ideas: https://www.yorkfestivalofideas.com
An annual celebration of intellectual thought, creativity, and learning, with events across the city.York Races: https://www.yorkracecourse.co.uk
Information on race meetings at one of the UK's most prestigious racecourses.York Food and Drink Festival: https://www.yorkfoodanddrinkfestival.com
A fantastic celebration of local food, drinks, and produce, with tastings, demonstrations, and events.St Nicholas Fair: https://www.visityork.org
A magical Christmas market held in the heart of York each year.York Literature Festival: https://www.yorkfestivalofwriting.com
A celebration of literary arts with events for writers, readers, and book lovers.
Accommodation
The Grand, York: https://www.grandyork.co.uk
A luxurious five-star hotel offering historic charm and modern comfort.Bedern Hall: https://www.bedernhall.co.uk
An independent guest house and unique event venue in the heart of York.Middletons Hotel: https://www.middletonsyork.co.uk
A charming hotel with beautiful gardens and easy access to the city center.The Victorian House Hotel: https://www.victorianhouseyork.co.uk
A welcoming hotel offering elegant rooms and a relaxing atmosphere.Holiday Inn York: https://www.ihg.com/holidayinn
Comfortable and affordable accommodation ideal for both leisure and business travelers.
Local Food and Drink
The Rattle Owl: https://www.therattleowl.co.uk
A stylish eatery offering modern British cuisine in an atmospheric setting.Betty’s Café Tea Rooms: https://www.bettys.co.uk
Famous for its afternoon teas and iconic cakes, Betty's is a York institution.The York Roast Co.: https://www.yorkroastco.com
Known for its delicious Yorkshire puddings filled with roast meats and traditional sides.The Blue Bell: https://www.bluebell-inn.co.uk
A historic pub offering a selection of cask ales and hearty pub meals.Skosh: https://www.skoshyork.co.uk
A modern restaurant offering a creative take on British cuisine.York Brewery: https://www.yorkbrewery.co.uk
Enjoy a variety of locally brewed beers and visit the brewery for tours and tastings.
Shopping
Coppergate Shopping Centre: https://www.coppergateshopping.co.uk
A popular shopping center with high street stores and eateries.The Shambles Market: https://www.yorkshambles.co.uk
Explore local food, crafts, and unique gifts in the iconic market space.Stonegate: https://www.yorkshistory.org
Discover a variety of independent shops, boutiques, and historic buildings.Vangarde Shopping Park: https://www.vangardeyork.co.uk
A large shopping park with big-name brands and dining options.
Outdoor Activities
York’s City Walls: https://www.yorkshire.com
Walk along the well-preserved medieval city walls for panoramic views of York.Rowntree Park: https://www.york.gov.uk
A lovely park with lakes, playgrounds, and walking paths, perfect for a family outing.Museum Gardens: https://www.yorkshire.com
A peaceful and historic garden with ruins of St. Mary’s Abbey.York Boat Tours: https://www.yorkboat.co.uk
Enjoy a relaxing boat ride along the River Ouse, offering unique views of the city.
Transportation
York Railway Station: https://www.nationalrail.co.uk
Find timetables, train services, and station facilities for traveling to and from York.First York Buses: https://www.firstgroup.com/york
Information on local bus services connecting York with surrounding areas.York Park and Ride: https://www.itravelyork.info
Convenient parking facilities with buses running directly into the city center.
Local Resources
City of York Council: https://www.york.gov.uk
Official local government website with information on services, events, and public resources.York Library Services: https://www.york.gov.uk/Libraries
Find library locations, events, and educational resources in York.York Local History Society: https://www.yorkhistorystudies.org
Discover more about York's fascinating history through events, talks, and archives.
Overview
York is a city that promises an unforgettable experience, whether you’re exploring its history, indulging in its food scene, or simply soaking up its unique atmosphere. Enjoy your trip!
Explore the Great Yorkshire Day Out
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Our Visits
We visit some of the popular locations and report back to you what we find with photos and video.
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Visitor Locations
To help you plan your Yorkshire break away we have researched the most popular locations.
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Printable Guides
We have produced some guides that are easy to copy/print for top attractions in Yorkshire.