The Northern city of York is one of the UK’s prettiest cities. With quaint streets, river views and Medieval landmarks, York has a typically English vibe and is incredibly picturesque. The city has Roman roots with a Viking past offering a wealth of history to discover throughout numerous museums. York also features ancient walls surrounding the contemporary heart of the city with a thriving cultural centre. The city of York is both beautiful and unique with an abundance of corners just waiting to be explored.
Explore York Minster
The biggest Medieval cathedral in Northern Europe calls the city of York home. York Minster is considered to be one of the world’s most beautiful Gothic buildings and was constructed nearly 900 years ago. The cathedral took over 250 years to build and you can truly appreciate the craftsmanship that went into the building. The architecture and interior of York Minster is truly breathtaking and the catherdral is a must-visit in York. In addition, the cathedral also offers the highest view in York with stunning views over the city.
Price: £11.50 (adults) and children go free with a paying adult
Hours: Monday-Saturday 9am-6:30pm
Climb Clifford’s Tower
Clifford’s Tower is the last remaining structure of York Castle and was originally built by William the Conqueror. The tower was burnt to the ground twice before being rebuilt by Henry III in the 13th-century and the imposing tower is a symbol of the power of England’s Medieval Kings. The tower sits on a small hill overlooking the city and whilst the tower itself doesn’t offer a lot to explore inside, the climb itself is worth it for the stunning panoramic views across the city of York.
Price: Free
Hours: 24/7
Cruise Along the River
The 60-mile-long River Ouse flows right through the heart of York. Many restaurants and bars overlook the river banks offering incredible riverside views whilst pathways run alongside Ouse for a pleasant stroll. Many operators also offer river cruises along Ouse which is a great way to experience the city and enjoy some sightseeing in a relaxing fashion. York City Cruise is the number one sightseeing tour providing both an informative and entertaining cruise. The boats offer both large open decks and a seated interior to allow cruises to be enjoyed in all weather.
Price: Varies by operator
Hours: Varies by operator
Experience the Chocolate Story
York has a long history of chocolate-making with popular confectionery brands such as Rowntrees and Nestle calling the city their home. Kit Kats are still produced in York to this day with six million bars produced in the city every day. The best way to discover the city’s chocolatey history is to visit York’s Chocolate Story. The tour takes you on an interactive journey of the history of chocolate, how to make it and how to taste it like an expert. The tour also includes the opportunity to taste samples and create your own chocolate.
Price: £14.50 (adults), £12 (children) and under 5’s go free
Hours: Tours are daily from 10am
Wander Through the Shambles
The Shambles is York’s prettiest street and is holder of the title of the most picturesque street in Britain. . The narrow lane is home to 15th-century sloping buildings which nearly touch at the top and offers a variety of quirky shops to discover including trinket stores and chocolatiers. The street is often described as a real-life Diagon Alley with its quaint and unusual vibe and there is even a Harry Potter dedicated shop The Shop That Must Not Be Named.
Price: Free
Hours: 24/7 (individual establishments opening hours vary)
Visit the National Railway Museum
York’s National Railway Museum is a paradise for train-lovers. Even if you don’t geek out over trains, the museum is incredibly interesting and houses over 100 locomotives. Located next to York Railway Station, the museum is home to an incredible collection of Royal carriages alongside famous trains such as the only bullet train outside of Japan and the record-breaking Mallard.
Price: Free
Hours: Wednesday-Sunday 10am-5pm
Walk along York City Walls
The city of York is surrounded by ancient walls which make up a magnificent 3.4km circuit of medieval stone. York’s city walls are the best-preserved city walls in England and walking the walls provides a great way to orientate yourself in the city. The entire stretch will take you approximately two hours to complete but with many gates, the walls can also be walked in small sections. Walking the city walls offers a great way to see the city with a free, easy way to sightsee as well as offering an incredible view of York Minster from the section between Micklegate and River Ouse.
Price: Free
Hours: 24/7
Get Spooked on a Ghost Tour
As the most haunted city in Europe, York offers an extensive list of ghost tours. With options including walks, bus tours and river cruises, there is sure to be a ghost tour which spooks you out. All tours offer a spooky guide to the history and mystery of York’s ancient, cobbled streets. Walking tours take you through narrow streets and eerie passageways whilst a ghost bus will drive you around haunted sights with a creepy conductor. Discover the bloodcurdling tales of the phantoms, ghosts and supernatural happenings of the city.
Price: Varies by operator
Hours: Varies by operator
Experience Viking life at Jorvik
Whilst York has a rich history, its Viking past was discovered less than fifty years ago. In the 1970’s, excavations discovered a Viking settlement beneath the streets of York. The site of that settlement is now home to Jorvik Viking Centre, an interactive museum which brings the Viking village to life. Alongside an audio guide, the exhibition also features life-like animatronic characters and realistic smells within the village reconstruction. Jorvik Viking Centre is York’s most popular tourist attraction.
Price: £12.50 (adults) and £8.50 (children)
Hours: Daily 10am-6pm
Browse the Christmas Markets
The city of York offers some of the best Christmas markets in the UK. During the festive season, the city is transformed into a Winter wonderland and invites visitors to browse the markets whilst indulging in some festive cheer. As well as stalls offering a variety of gifts and trinkets, the market also features a variety of stalls serving festive foods and Winter drinks. Meanwhile, musicians and carolers are scattered around the city centre spreading a tuneful festive spirit.
Price: Free
Hours: Festive season. Dates and times vary by year
The city of York is an incredibly, charming city with stunning scenery and a lot to offer. With an abundance of activities, York provides many great ways to enjoy the city whilst also experiencing the rich history here. An exciting city surrounded by the beautiful Yorkshire Dales, York is the ultimate English city with a terribly British vibe.
