Here are 42 of the best places and activities to get up to when visiting the beautiful old city of York. York is the perfect place to visit if you love finding quaint, English cafe’s, independent shops and learning all about the rich histories. The city has something for everyone to enjoy, but will always attracts Harry Potter fans keen to visit the magical gift shops and get a look at the inspiration for Diagon Alley. Whether you want to absorb the English culture on a guided tour, or just get some amazing restaurant recommendations, this guide will certainly inspire your time in York.
01. See the View from The City Walls
The best way to see the city from a high point is to walk the York city walls. This amazing activity is one of the best free things to do, and a great way to see panoramic views of York. Get a different perspective of the old English pub gardens and watch the different seasons take hold of the city. There are some parts of the walk that you can pay to continue on, such as at Bootham Bar, but there is plenty of the walking route that is free of charge and well worth your time.
02. Book a History Walk of the City
If viewing historic buildings and learning about the rich history of York city is of interest to you, then booking a walking tour around the city is the way to go. You can find promising tours on Air BnB Experiences, and read the reviews to find a tour that suits you. York historians have lots of interesting information about the Tudor period, as well as Medieval times to share, not to mention the Jorvik Viking Centre is one of the main attractions bringing people in to the city.
03. Pancakes at Double Dutch
In the heart of York is the Double Dutch pancake house which sells the most amazingly luxurious pancakes in North of England. It’s a perfect place for dietary requirements, as the menu has a large variety that caters for all preferences. Whether you would prefer a savoury veg-filled pancake, or a creamy chocolate treat, Double Dutch is the perfect way to relax after a day of shopping on the York cobbled streets.
04. Take a Stroll Down Diagon Alley
The Shambles is one of the best-preserved medieval streets in Britain. Today, it is home to many independent shops and bakeries, and is a great experience for anyone in search of that old-world English feel. Known as being the inspiration for the Harry Potter ‘Diagon Alley’, The Shambles certainly carries its own kind of magical feel. The Harry Potter shops can be found in this area, and very often have queues out of the door with tourists coming to visit. But there are many iconic little shops located on The Shambles, an absolute must-visit for anyone coming to York.
05. Enjoy Afternoon Tea at Betty’s Tea Room
The most quintessential English afternoon in York can be spent visiting Betty’s Tea Room. In the centre of York, the two-story tea room sits on St Helen’s Square, and has a luxury restaurant and a baked goods shop in this location. Betty’s is a classic English brand known for the ultimate afternoon tea experience, and has been part of our history since 1919. It’s a pricey treat, but well worth it to have a relaxing hour in the ambience and enjoy the luxury homemade cakes.
06. Queue Up at The York Ghost Merchants
You must have seen the viral ghost ornaments from York Ghost Merchants circulating on Tik Tok. These crafters make original, hand-made ghost ornaments, and their quaint shop is a step back in time to the York of 1852. The Shambles is often bustling with travellers coming to see this one of a kind store, and wait their turn to go inside and choose their very own ghost to take home. They are collectible souvenirs unlike any other, and every ghost unique with a spirit of it’s own.
07. York Minster
The most grand structure of Northern England has to be York Minster. The minster is well known as an attraction in the city, and has a rich cultural history in Britain, dating all the way back to the 7th century. Whether just photographing the impressive gothic architecture from outside is what you would enjoy, or maybe you would prefer a guided tour of the beautiful old church interiors. It is free admission for those who live in York, as well as students, otherwise for visitors it is £18 per ticket. The minster gardens are free of charge, and offer some beautiful grassland and tree shade while enjoying a picnic in peace.
08. A Drink at The Ivy on St Helen’s Square
For a relaxing Aperol spritz with a view, visit the beautiful restaurant The Ivy on St Helen’s Square for an afternoon break. The Ivy has stunning interiors and a classic British menu with a twist, however the few small tables out front offer a seat in front of some beautiful historical buildings and shopping streets. It is the perfect place to enjoy a cup of tea and a light lunch before venturing off to walk around the rest of York city.
09. Smell Handmade Candles at Born of Botanics
One of the most luxurious independent shops York has to offer has to be Born of Botanics. This handmade candle shop is the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind gifts, and scents you could of have never imagined. For a nostalgic feel, try the scent ‘4000 Sundays’ or ‘Grandpa’s Garden’. Or for something more mild and cosy, try ‘Laundry Day’ or ‘Leaf Kicking’ to get you in that seasonal mood. The store is located on Stonegate, and has many other independent gift shops around it to create the perfect shopping afternoon.
10. Ride the Carousel
For the nostalgia lovers out there, keep your eye out for the vintage style carousels dotted around York city centre throughout the year. They tend to move seasonally, and can sometimes be located nearby Clifford’s Tower, and others near the Christmas market stalls. In the quieter times, it can be a bit of childish fun to enjoy and a special moment to try some interesting photography of the carousel in action.
11. Buy Flowers at the Market
There are many outdoor markets located in York City Centre, but this beautiful flower stall usually sets up on Jubbergate, and has a large variety of stunning flowers to choose from. You can find stunning tulips in the Spring, or fresh sunflowers in the late summer, as well as seasonal plants and advice from the local sellers. it’s a perfect pit stop for a last minute gift or seasonal home decor.
12. Take a Free Walk on The River Ouse
If you want to see York on a budget, stick to walking the many free gardens and park areas and enjoy a picnic of your own making. The River Ouse runs through the city centre, and has many embankments nearby that can be the perfect place to set up and enjoy a summer time lunch. You can watch the ferry tours sail by, as well as many university sailing teams at practice, and enjoy a slow quiet day in one of Britain’s oldest cities.
13. Enjoy a Pizza on the St Sampson’s Square
Sit outside on the square in the summer months to enjoy a freshly made pizza from Pizza Express and enjoy the city ambience. St Sampson’s Square has a rich history of being a market square since the 14th century, and now is home to well-known restaurants such as The Cut and Craft, a highly rated steakhouse. There is also often a carousel mentioned above placed in the square, which makes for some stunning photography moments.
14. Explore York Christmas Market Season
York city is very popular with tourists during the Christmas season, and the market streets see hundreds and thousands in footfall. As a word of warning, the business can be overwhelming and be difficult to enjoy, so plan your Christmas visits very carefully. The best way to enjoy the festive season is to make sure you have booked a hearty meal at a restaurant in the city centre so you have guaranteed period of time to sit down and relax. Don’t forget to enjoy the beautiful independent shop displays during December as well as the market stalls, it’s the perfect place for unique gift shopping.
15. Book to Tour The Treasurer’s House
Not far from York Minster, is a Grade 1 listed National Trust house referred to as The Treasurer’s House throughout history. First established in 1091, the house has continues to pass from treasurer to treasurer until 1897 when it was purchased by the wealthy oddity Frank Green. National trust locations always have tons of interesting information about previous owners and families, and even royal links. The Treasurer’s House also has beautiful gardens that you can sneak in for some beautiful photographs if you don’t fancy paying for a house tour.
16. Take in the View at The Habit
Situated on Goodramgate, The Habit occupies a space that has been around since the 16th century. A cosy English pub with a variety of food and drink on offer, but most importantly, a secret balcony hideaway with a beautiful view of York Minster. In the summer months, you can find locals enjoying a pint in the sun, and in colder months, the old-English interiors provide a cosy getaway space.
17. Shop for Pottery at Country Traditionals
One of the most stunning independent stores in York city centre is Country Traditionals pottery. These beautiful designs are largely blue and white, and have nature-based prints that would make stunning gifts. This one-of-a-kind shop also has a variety of polished stoneware items, such as storage jars, vases and cake stands. The quality and originality is unlike any other pottery store in Northern England, so give it a visit if you are looking to upgrade your kitchenware or buy something for a loved one.
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18. Host a Picnic in The Minster Gardens
A lovely free activity to do when venturing to York city centre, is to take a home-made picnic and blanket to the York Minster gardens. The beautiful architecture and nature combination makes for idyllic ambience in the summer months. There is also a vintage style ice-cream van parked on the minster premises, and plenty of quaint cafe’s if you would prefer to buy some fresh lunch. The land has plenty of space for a large party, and has such a calming atmosphere that make it the perfect place to bring others for a quiet celebration.
19. Walk Through the Yorkshire Museum
Opened since 1830, The Yorkshire Museum has a fascinating variety of exhibitions perfect for a family day out. From exploring Roman York, to studying stars in the observatory, there are many exciting exhibitions to keep your minds busy for a few hours. Admission is £9.50 per adult, and £4.75 per child, and has a very large parkland surrounding it that makes a perfect picnic lunch spot. The Yorkshire Museum structure itself is grand and beautiful, making it an idyllic place to settle for a few hours of peaceful fun.
20. Enjoy the Ambience of The Star Inn
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This award-winning Brasserie, The Starr Inn, is situated on the picturesque banks of The River Ouse. With grand interiors and country-style dining, this restaurant styles itself as a charming, warm atmosphere perfect for making memories with friends. Although open daily with a vast seasonal menu, it is well-known for it’s Sunday roast menu, which is limited to bookings only. So if you are looking for a scenic place to enjoy a family celebration or event, The Starr Inn is well worth your consideration.
21. The Candlelight Concert Events
The Candlelight orchestral concerts have made their way around England in recent years, and there is no more perfect setting then the historical city of York. In the heart of the city, the concerts are often hosted at The National Centre for Early Music and other historic buildings, and lit up magically with thousands of LED candles. You can book tickets for movie theme music selections, Christmas pop hits, Bridgerton style song lists and many more. Spend an evening enjoying classical music for your next date night and do something different!
22. Wonder Through The Yorkshire Museum Gardens & The Ruined Abbey
Outside of The Yorkshire Museum, are the beautifully kept gardens often used to make your way in to the city centre. Dating back to the Tudor reign of Henry the Eighth and his infamous dissolution of the abbey’s, the ruins can still be seen today as you walk through the gardens. Known as St Mary’s Abbey, you can get close to the historical structure and see for yourself the old architectural style. York is full of rich historical tales that you can see for yourself, and similarly to the medieval city walls, visiting the ruined abbey is one of the best free things to do.
23. Drive to Castle Howard
Just 30 minutes drive out of York city centre, is Castle Howard, a grand estate steeped with rich, aristocratic history. This stately home, like many in England, has stunning Edwardian interiors and painting collections for the history lovers out there. The gardens are extremely well kept, and ideal for summer walks and lunches outside. Since the 1950’s, Castle Howard has been open to the public, and even used as a filming location for shows such as, Bridgerton, When Death Comes to Pemberley and The Buccaneers.
24. Hunt for Jellycats in the York Gift Shops
York is the perfect place to gift shop, especially if you love hunting for Jelly Cats. This latest trend that has taken the world by storm has made its way to the independent shops of York, and they have vast collections dotted all around the city. Search the narrow streets for rare finds and make sure to share your success on social media and help the other jelly cat hunters of York!
25. York’s Chocolate Story
Discover why York is referred to as ‘Chocolate City’ by taking a tour at York’s Chocolate Story. Did you know that York was home to three founding families of well-loved confectionary brands across England? Rowntree’s, Terry’s and Cravens all originated in this magical city, and you can learn all about their story at this mini museum. Watch fresh chocolate products get made in live demonstrations and take advantage of the delicious free samples as you go!
26. Feel Spooky on a Night Time Ghost Walk
York has a rich ghost-filled history that sees many a guided tour throughout the city. However, if you are feeling ready for a scare, why not take one at night? You will be taken all around different historic sites, and may even learn about the most famous highwayman in England, Dick Turpin, whose grave lies in central York. Book a tour through Air BnB experience today and enjoy an evening of great fun and exciting histories.
27. Board the Classic Sight Seeing Open Top Bus
You can see plenty of things from the top of a York city sight seeing bus! If you love feeling the wind in your hair while listening to some of the histories of the city, then buying a day ticket for the classic red bus may be perfect for you. You can opt for a hop on hop off bus and see all the famous sights, or even include a ferry service if you love the idea of getting out on the water for a different perspective! The key stops are Exhibition Square, Monk Bar, The Stonebow and Clifford’s Tower.
28. Experience Van Gogh Immersive Art
For a quieter cultural experience, go and see the Van Gogh immersive art display at St Mary’s Church. Watch the classic paintings come to life with animation on the vast church walls and feel sucked into the history while listening to stories of Van Gogh’s life. For a quiet hour away from the hustle and bustle, this immersive experience is a step back to 19th century art and an ideal visitor attraction for a rainy day.
29. Enjoy Tapas at Ambiente
One of York’s most popular restaurants, the tapas bar Ambiente has two prime city locations to choose from. The warm, lively vibe is unmatched, and with delicious Spanish sharing platters it’s ideal for a weekend meal out. You can dine at Fossgate, or Goodramgate, whichever may be more convenient to your hotel or train station, but either way you won’t be disappointed with Ambiente!
30. Time Travel to York Castle Museum
Take a step back in time to York Castle Museum, and enjoy the vintage vibes in their amazing exhibitions. The museum is ideally located near Clifford’s Tower and other attractions, so if you do have a York Pass, or plan to hit all of the key visitor locations, this may be the perfect museum choice for you. Learn all about life in Yorkshire since the 19th century, and if you are lucky enough to visit at Christmas time, you will see a true Victorian Christmas shopping street, with classic shop fronts and vintage decorations to give all the festive feels to your day out!
31. Unforgettable Afternoon Tea at The Grand
This is York’s luxury five star hotel, with a beautiful tea room, spa and wedding reception room. For a taste of a quintessentially British treat, book in for an afternoon tea dining experience, and take in stunning views of the city walls while you enjoy a relaxing afternoon. Situated in a Grade Two Listed Building, and a former railway headquarters, The Grand sits at the heart of York city centre, and is only a five minute walk away from lots of attractions if you wanted to continue exploring after your dining experience.
32. Become a Viking for a Day
The JORVIK Viking Centre may well be the top attraction York has to offer. It attracts visitors from around the world to learn about the rich Viking history of the city, and even boasts exhibitions showing what the city used to look like during Viking occupation. The Viking Festival is hosted in February will include traditional crafts, workshops, feasts and tours, making it the ideal family event. Make the most of your day in York and get to see some of the other amazing attractions while your in this beautiful, old city!
33. See Live Music at The Barbican
The York Barbican is the largest musical arts venue in the city, hosting a wide variety of acts and plays every year. From Bongo’s Bingo to Community Carol Concerts, there are year round events that make for a brilliant evening out. The Barbican is only a short walk away from the city centre, and you can find your way past many historic pubs on your outing to make the journey more pleasurable.
34. Climb to the Top of Clifford’s Tower
This historical monument, known as ‘York Castle’ is of medieval Norman origin, and has a very rich history in British politics. Entry to the castle is £9.50 per adult, and with that comes a panoramic view of York city from the very top. Arguably, it is an expensive visit, so if you want to keep the budget low, you can walk around the outskirts free of charge and venture to The York Castle Museum which is a short walk away from Clifford’s Tower.
35. Take a Boat Ride on The River Ouse
For a history tour on the water, book a boat ride along The River Ouse and enjoy a relaxing guided tour. You can also book a self-guided guided tour and drive your own small boat if you feel confident on the water and wish to take things at your own pace. For a date night special, try an evening cruise at sunset for the beautiful ambience, or for a family day out, try a hop on, hop off boat trip where you can see all the sights at your leisure.
36. Buy Coffee and a Pastry at The Old York Tea Room
The Old York Tea Room located on Goodramgate is in a Grade Two listed building dating all the way back to 1316. The café has kept up the old-English decor, and has a vintage style tea room and bakery that is perfect for British culture lovers. They sell an amazing selection of home-made cakes and coffees, and are only a few minutes walk away from the entrance to York City Walls.
37. Gift Shopping at The Imaginarium
One of England’s most beautiful gift shops has to be The Imaginarium in York City. This store houses unique homewares, creative displays and a Christmas decor selection that is unlike any other. The old-academia styling lures you in and inspires your own home decor ideas. This independent shop is perfect for anyone looking to upgrade their home style or find one-of-a-kind items!
38. A Cup of Tea at York Minster
At the back of York Minster, there are a selection of cafe’s with a direct view of the beautiful, gothic architecture. The Vanilla Cafe offers outdoor seating in a European style, and a quiet cup of tea in one of the most scenic spots of historic Britain. Located on College Street, you will find this hidden gem a quiet, soothing place to visit and enjoy looking at the original features of the vast, historic buildings.
39. Book Shopping at The Minster Gate Bookshop
Get lost in the world of books at The Minster Gate Bookshop, and find yourself a new read to enjoy while exploring York city. This bookshop has four floors of antique and second-hand books, making it a literature lovers dream. York has a variety of independent book shops, with a large new one set to open in Autumn of 2025 on the corner of Museum Street. Quiet cities like York are the perfect place to find a new love of books and expand your imagination.
40. Take in the History at The National Railway Museum
The National Railway Museum tells the story of rail transport in Britain, and it’s significant impact on society. The museum hosts the world famous locomotive, The Flying Scotsman, and attracts visitors from far and wide with a special interest in the history of train travel. Admission to the museum is free, making the ideal family and school holiday venture to keep budgets tight and minds busy.
41. Coffee With a View at Sophie Café
This water edge café sits on Lendal Bridge, in a historical toll building connecting the two medieval towers. The views of The River Ouse are beautiful, and if it’s warm enough to sit outside you can enjoy watching the boating tours sail by. The café has a variety of food and drink, but it’s really the ambience and beautiful structure people come here for. British café culture typically makes special use of small, pokey buildings rich in history, and Sophie café does just that, making it a must visit in York!
42. The Best Salad Selection at Goji Cafe
This vegetarian restaurant boasts the best salad selection in York city. Everything is fresh and home-made, and the variety of vegetarian and vegan options makes it a great place to bring friends. They have a homely indoor seating space, and a hidden gem secret garden at the back for summer dining. The biggest tip to offer is pre-ordering their amazing summer picnic basket to take to the York Minster Gardens to enjoy a lunch under the sun with your loved ones.
