York is one of the most quaint, idyllic, and beautiful cities in the United Kingdom. Founded by the Ancient Romans, York is rich in culture and history – there is so much to learn and see. In fact, The Sunday Times voted the city as the best place to live in the UK in 2018 and was nominated again in 2020. So, what makes York such a wonderful place to live and visit? Is it the beautiful cobbled streets, the exciting attractions, the historic sites, or the quirky bars and restaurants? You’ll just have to find out for yourself! Here to give you a helping hand are this author’s top eleven things to do in the fabulous city of York.
The York City Walls / The Bar Walls
The city walls of York, or ‘The Bar Walls’ as they are oftentimes nicknamed, are a fabulous opportunity for you to make your way around the entire perimeter of the stunning city of York and take in the wonderful city scenery. In fact, the walls themselves have been named the best-preserved medieval stone walls in all of England. So, definitely worth a closer look! If you are wanting to walk the entire length of the circled walls, it totals a whopping three kilometers.
No need to complete the entire walk if you aren’t too into hiking, as there are multiple stops throughout the trek where you can hop off the wall and end your journey. Open from eight am and closing at dusk, the city walls of York are a great opportunity to get a well-rounded overview of the city’s layout whilst soaking up some of the best scenic views that York has to offer. Plus, it’s totally free!
Location: York, YO1 7LJ
York Minster
York Minster is known throughout Northern Europe as one of the most magnificent and in fact the second largest, Gothic Cathedrals, standing proudly in the center of the city of York. The cathedral exists as one of the top tourist attractions in the city, known for its unusual and unique qualities. It is truly a sight to behold!
There are some fantastic views of the building from the above described York City Walls, but if you’re wanting a closer look, a small fee will get you to access the inside of York Minster. You’ll even have the chance to climb the cathedral tower for some beautiful skyline views of the city. Do not miss out on your chance to visit one of the most breathtaking buildings in all of the UK, and even in Northern Europe!
Location: Deangate, York, YO1 7HH
The Invisible York Tour
One of the most unique attractions offered by the city of York is by far the Invisible York Tour. This alternative tour of York is unlike any other, conducted by individuals who have been impacted by homelessness. By becoming well versed in the tourism industry, then walking tour guides not only begin to earn an income but also take one of the first steps in starting their career journey and establishing themselves. Each tour guide is able to offer their own individual perspectives on the city of York and you learn something new each time.
There is a multitude of themed tours to choose from including ‘York’s Railway Heritage’, ‘York Family Friendly Fun Tour’ etcetera. Not only will you be given a fantastic overview of the very best attractions and sites that the city has to offer, but you will also be contributing toward the improvement of an individual’s life and funding an organization that truly wants to help those most in need. You won’t get that from any other walking tour in York!
The York Dungeon
The York Dungeon was opened in 1986 and nowadays exists as a frightening but fun thematic experience. Be taken on a journey through nearly two thousand years of the horrible history of the dungeons through a combination of immersive sets, professional actors, and exciting special effects! This tourist attraction is truly impressive and actually very comedic despite its theme. If you enjoy scary fun, the York Dungeon is the experience for you! Open daily from ten am until five pm, why not embrace the scary side?
Location: 12 Clifford St, York, YO1 9RD
The National Railway Museum
Even if you are generally not the biggest fan of museums, you should definitely give the National Railway Museum a try! The National Railway Museum is a unique tourist attraction that you won’t find elsewhere. Plus, unbelievably, this interactive learning experience won’t cost you a penny, though there is the option to add to the donation box. From storytelling to steam train rides, this venue has it all. Stare in awe at incredible trains such as the Shinkansen bullet train, and even trains previously used by royalty such as King Edward VII and Queen Victoria.
The Flying Scotsman also resides here, a train featured in the Harry Potter movies. The National Railway Museum is very often referred to as one of the best things to do whilst visiting York, so why not give this free tourist attraction a go? What do you have to lose?
Location: Leeman Rd, York, YO26 4XJ
Clifford’s Tower
Built by William the Conqueror during his quest to bring the entire country under his control, Clifford’s Tower stands tall in the center of York. The tower is one of the most visited, and often considered unique or alternative, attractions in the entire city. Clifford’s Tower sits comfortably on the top of a hill that you are able to climb via the installed stairs.
To visit the tower and enjoy the stunning views of this authentic piece of architecture, the cost is free! Though if you are wanting to enter and climb to the top, a small fee is required. Though the unrivaled panoramic views from atop are definitely worth this small wager! Open from ten am until six pm daily, make sure Clifford’s Tower is a part of your York itinerary.
Location: Clifford’s Tower, York, Tower St, York, YO1 9SA
The Shambles
Harry Potter fans! How would you like to have a stroll down an authentic, real-life Diagon Alley? Well, when in York, you can! York Shambles Street is the most famous spot in all of the city and has even been voted ‘Britain’s Most Picturesque Street’ by Google. Inspiring the infamous Diagon Alley from the Harry Potter movies, the narrow York Shambles Street is filled to the brim with culture. From quirky shops, historic pubs, and a multitude of cafes and bars, there is so much to see and do. A visit to this tourist attraction won’t cost you a penny so why not take a stroll down one of the most beautiful and famous streets in all of Britain?
Location: Shambles, York, YO1 7LX
The York Museum Gardens
The grounds of the York Museum Gardens are truly beautiful and a great place to sit and relax. Located in the center of the city, the area is rich in natural beauty – you can spend hours admiring the stunning greenery. The gardens themselves are over one hundred years old and were created by the Yorkshire Museum and the Yorkshire Philosophical Society. Why not pack a lunch and picnic with friends and/or family? Or, visit the Yorkshire Museum and gift shop? Whatever you decide, the York Museum Gardens are a must-stop during your trip to York!
Location: Museum St, York, YO1 7FR
The Jorvik Viking Centre
One of the most quirky and unusual attractions in all of York is definitely the Jorvik Viking Centre! Tour through room upon room of striking Viking mannequins, learning about the history of the York Vikings. Get lost in the scary stories and learn more about the past civilizations of the city in which you stand. The Jorvik Viking Centre is truly one of the coolest and most interesting attractions in York. People typically spend from thirty to ninety minutes here so it’s a great way to fill a morning or afternoon during your trip! Experience the original Viking encounter and become immersed in the sights, smells, and sounds of Jorvik Viking Centre’s reconstructed Viking city! This attraction is a must-see.
Location: 19 Coppergate, York, YO1 9WT
Brewery Tour
The city of York is known for its multitude of breweries and excellent tasting lager and ale. So, a brewery tour is highly recommended! Enjoy a generous sampling of craft beers and handcrafted ales, who knows, you may find a new favorite. There are lots of brewery tours for you to choose from but among the best rated and most popular are ‘Brew York’ and the ‘York Craft Beer Tasting Experience’. Obviously, only over 18s for this one! If that’s you, then make sure to head off on a brewery tour with your friends or family whilst you’re in York!
The York Chocolate Story
If you’re a sweet tooth, then this one’s for you! Wanting to journey through the history of the creation of chocolate whilst having a few cheeky samples? Yes? Then you need to visit York’s, Chocolate Story. Learn about the entrepreneurial side of chocolate and hear all about the revolution of chocolate in England. See how chocolate was created and learn how to make your own! This tourist attraction is great fun for all the family. It’s educational, fun, and most importantly, very tasty. Tours run from ten am with the last tour departing at four pm.
Location: 3-4 Kings Square, York, YO1 7LD
