All The Things You'll Want To Do in York
Walk the cobbled streets, explore the snickelways, clamber up the ancient walls and marvel in the Minster before hitting the shops – we told you there’s lots to explore!
Eat...
Start your day off right with a loaded buttermilk pancake stack from York’s popular café Brew & Brownie, or linger a little over brunch orders such as eggs Benedict, Bali bowls or strawberry French toast at Rise on Fossgate. For those not wanting to miss a second of exploring, there are plenty of takeaway spots dotted around the city, including Flori Bakery or Partisan, perfect for a morning caffeine fix and a pastry. For fabulous pub lunches there’s nowhere quite like the 17th century Eagle & Child pub, or head to The Fat Badger and take a seat in their beer garden for a spot of al fresco dining with good views of the Minster. For bistro dishes from award-winning chefs, head to Skosh, Fish and Forest, or Tommy Bank’s Roots. If casual feasting is more your forte, visit Spark to sample delicious street food washed down with natural wines or local craft beers. Beside the station, The Principal York is a great meeting place. The contemporary Refectory Kitchen & Terrace serves classic British dishes, while the characterful Chapter House Bar is the place to kick back and relax with a local craft beer or expertly made cocktail served alongside a tempting bar menu packed with local produce.
Sleep...
For a five-star stay which includes the choice of stylish rooms, suites or studio apartments, a spa and superb dining, The Grand should be your choice. Also centrally located, No1 York by Guesthouse makes for a charming stay in one of their 39 boutique rooms dotted around their Regency townhouse. The Guy Fawkes Inn stands in the shadows of the Minster and is steeped in medieval history, and its 13 ensuite bedrooms are full of comfort and character. Judges Court is a Georgian Grade-II, 15 bedroomed townhouse tucked away in a secret courtyard, just seconds from the heart of York’s shopping district.
Browse...
There are plenty of independent retailers across the city and the Shambles is just one place to start – especially if you’re a Harry Potter fan as there are a whole host of magical shops to discover. In Shambles Market head to Copper & White for everyday wearable fashion, and Splatt and Kchoom for an eclectic range of jewellery. Around the corner on Colliergate, you’ll find family-run stationary shop Avorium, and Totally Awesome, an emporium of fun games and gizzmos. On Blake Street, make sure to pop into The Imaginarium for great quirky homewares and Botanic on Walmgate for exotic and unusual house plants. Micklegate is home to Lucius Books where you’ll find rare and collectable books and original art for sale. Head to Bishopthorpe Road to explore a range of independent delis, florists and gift shops, or venture further afield to Lou’s Thread Interiors for inspirational advice on everything from bespoke curtains and blinds to soft furnishings. The team offer free consultations and will walk you through all your interior design needs.
AROUND THE CORNER
Venture 20 minutes outside York to Northwood Trail, an enchanting fairy sanctuary that will transport you to another world, or get lost amongst the maize at York Maze (it’s Britain’s largest.) Yorkshire Air Museum, based on the former WWII Bomber Command base, is well worth a visit.
DON’T MISS
Experience York’s history like never before at JORVIK Viking Centre where you can experience the sights, smells and sounds of York’s viking past through their immersive attractions and well-preserved Viking artefacts. Barley Hall is a medieval house once home to the Priors of Nostell and York’s Mayor. Lovingly restored, it’s a treat for all history buffs, furnished to resemble a home in the 15th century – there’s lots to discover here. Train enthusiasts should make tracks for the National Railway Museum, home of iconic locomotives, to discover the past, present and future of rail travel. Or why not simply spend some time on a walking tour around the city walls, and take in the sights from every angle on the walls.
