Top 10 Things You Need to Do & See in York
York is an ancient city in the UK that’s thriving with history, architecture and beauty. It was originally founded by the Romans in 71 AD but was invaded by the Saxons, the Normans, and even the Vikings. York went through a few name changes before the Vikings came up with Jorvik, which eventually became York. The city has plenty of fun things to do, so here’s my top 10.
1.The Shambles
This pretty narrow cobbled street is often described as the real life Diagon Alley. It’s full of independent shops and bakeries and even a Harry Potter Shop! Make sure you visit this area, which even won the title of most picturesque street in Britain in the Google Street View Awards.
2. Clifford’s Tower
For fantastic panoramic views over York then head to Clifford’s Tower. Enjoy views of York Minster and the city of York, with its medieval churches and buildings. Entrance fees are £5.70 per adult.
3.Visit York’s Chocolate Story
York has a long history of chocolate making with Terry’s and Rowntree’s (now Nestlé) both starting here. At York’s Chocolate Story you can find out about the history of chocolate in York. The tour will take you on an interactive journey where you’ll discover how to make chocolate and even get to sample some. You can then make your own chocolate lollipop. Once you’ve done the tour head to the cafe for a delicious hot choc and there’s also a shop if you fancy taking some treats home with you.
4.The Grand York
Stay in one of the UK’s top 5 star hotels. The Grand, York was originally built in 1906 as a ‘Palace Of Business’ for a railway company in Edwardian England. Now a luxury hotel situated in an ideal location right by the city walls and only a 5 minute walk from the train station. Relax and unwind at the spa or enjoy one of the dining options from fine dining to modern British cuisine or grand afternoon tea.
5.York City Walls
You can see some amazing views of the city from here. If you want to cover all of the wall then be prepared to walk a lot, as these are the longest city walls in Great Britain. The full circuit will take around two hours or you can just cover a few sections. Entrance for this is free but it does close at dusk.
6.The York Minster
This is one of the largest Gothic Cathedrals in Northern Europe and was built in 1472. You can take a free guided tour and learn more about the history of the Minster and stop by the Undercroft Museum and learn about York’s Roman history. For beautiful panoramic views of the city you can climb the tower for an extra £4.
Price: £11.50 adults with unlimited return for 12 months.
7.Stop for a coffee or afternoon tea
York has plenty of cafes for you to take a break in and enjoy a coffee and cake. Stop at Betty’s tea room for a traditional afternoon tea, make sure you try the famous fat rascal scones, which are a cross between a scone and a rock cake.
8.Ride a boat down the river
A great way to see the city is by boat, you can even hire your own red boat to drive around the river. This costs between £20-£40 for an hour and is a fun way to explore.
9.Explore the cute shops
Wandering around the city you’ll be sure to find plenty of cute shops. Head to the Imaginarium for an Alice in Wonderland style store packed with unique items for the home. Visit the Yorkshire Soap Company for some pampering treats or visit the Shop That Must Not Be Named, to get your Harry Potter fix. Alternatively, if you fancy upper end high street stores then head to Stonegate.
10.Learn about history at the museums
The York Castle Museum is the best place to find out about York’s history. There’s plenty of exhibits and even a reconstruction of a Victorian street where you can walk into different shops. Another great museum to visit is the Yorkshire museum home to an array of archaeological and geological collections, this museum covers centuries of history.
Trips around the UK
*Disclaimer – This is a collaborative post, all photos from Instagram users who are linked above. Prices correct as of time of writing*
4 Comments
Kate's Closet (@ClosetKate)
I visited York for the day in the summer and loved it, the shambles and York minster are beautiful, and we even ventured up Clifford’s tower, despite being petrified lol the views where great x
https://www.katescloset.uk/
Jim
I visited York and had tea at Betty’s. had a great time there.
sarahscupofbeauty
Such a fun post! I have never visted York before. But now I would defiitelt consider it!
jasonlikestotravel
I love York, overdue a return to the city to see a bit more of it. I think you’ve covered the best bits though 🙂