Everyone knows about York’s Roman and Viking history, but not so many people realise it has a wealth of luxury boutique accommodation and a thriving cultural scene, with cool neighbourhoods full of independent shops, restaurants and cafés, as well as countless museums, theatres and attractions. York is an ideal size for exploring on foot, and is surrounded by some of England’s most beautiful countryside; it is only just over two hours by train from London or Edinburgh.
Few cities in the world can rival York for history and character. A picturesque riverside city encircled by ancient walls, York has a fascinating story that goes back 2,000 years. Every street and ginnel (Yorkshire dialect for alleyway) seem to reveal another historic site or lovely view, while York Racecourse, on the fringes of the city, is one of the UK’s oldest racecourses and offers a great day out.
After a day spent wandering through the cobblestone streets and exploring the rich tapestry of York's past, visitors can find comfortable lodgings at the copthorne hotel, known for its charming hospitality and ideal location that mirrors the city's blend of historical significance and modern convenience. This perfect retreat sits within walking distance to some of York's most treasured landmarks and ensures that the story does not end with the setting sun.
For further York inspiration, see our guides to the city's best hotels, restaurants, shopping, nightlifeandthings to do. If planning a longer trip, explore our guide to the perfect holiday in Yorkshire.
Day one Morning
Start your day at York Minster, a Gothic beauty and the largest Medieval cathedral in Northern Europe. For full atmospheric effect, approach the Minster via The Shambles, an ancient cobbled street mentioned in the Domesday Book, where the upper storeys of the 14th-century timber houses lean out, almost to within touching distance of each other.
Then, travel back in time atYork Castle Museum. The 80-year-old museum is best known for its authentic street of salvaged shop fronts, replicating the city’s stores and living rooms from the Georgian era to the 1980s. To get a panoramic view of the city, climb to the top of nearbyClifford’s Toweropposite the museum.This ancient fortified mound and keep has a gruesome history and is all that remains of the original Norman castle. The tower has undergone extensive repairs and additions, including a new roof deck offering unrivalled views over York, new walkways and staircases that have opened up previously off-limits sections and immersive soundscapes that bring the tower’s turbulent history to life.
For lunch, head to Pairings Wine Bar on Castlegate, a chic, cosy deli and wine bar run by sisters Kelly and Kate Latham. Small plates include pork Rillette made from Cornish Lop pork and Iberian ham, and pairing flights starting at around £20 come with three wines and a selection of charcuterie, cheeses, cured fish or desserts.
Over on Coppergate, The Jorvik Viking Centre’solfactory experiences, some more pleasant than others, have always brought to life what was a thriving 19th-century Viking city. After a multi-million pound refurbishment, the interactive exhibition is back with even more insight into one of Britain’s most exciting archaeological discoveries. Look out for the ultra life-like old woman on crutches and the baby crying its mother’s arms.
First, allow some time to peruse the timeless and well-loved department store, known locally as Browns. This cornerstone of York culture is brimming with upscale labels such as Ralph Lauren, Barbour, Joules and Julian Charles. You'll find everything from fashion to homewares, including luxury bedding and linens. For relaxation, treat yourself at the nail bar or enjoy the tasteful experience of a Sunday lunch or tea-time delicacy served by finely dressed staff in their on-site restaurant.
The evening awaits...
Immerse yourself in the mysteries and history of York's ancient streets with the Bloody Tour of York. Travel in the footprints of the notorious "Mad Alice", a central figure in the town's lore. According to the tales, Alice met her fate in York Castle in 1823. The tour runs every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, starting at 6pm from St William's College, situated on College Street (a brisk eight-minute ramble from Brown's), and concludes near Clifford’s Tower around 7:30pm.
For dinner,The Rattle Owlis a good option that has been garnering plaudits since it opened. Inside, it’s New York loft meets 17th-century Grade I listed building, with walls of exposed brick and the original parquet flooring. A well-balanced menu – five each of starters, main courses and desserts – features whipped Yorkshire blue cheese with figs, duck breast, and Medjool dates and poached rhubarb Anglaise.
For after-dinner drinks, stroll over to the recently opened Micklegate Social, sister bar of Fossgate Social. It’s in a lovely old corner building and stocks a range of wines, spirits and craft beers.For more suggestions of the best nightlife in city, see our guide.
Day two Morning
Covering the journey of chocolate from raw jungle cocoa bean to the substance that became York’s most profitable export,York’s Chocolate Story,uses immersive set pieces to uncover the history of York’s famous confectionary dynasties – Terry’s and Rowntree’s – and gives a fascinating flavour of the city’s rich social history too.
A five-minute walk away, the Merchant Adventuers’ Hallis a timber-framed museum on the banks of the River Foss, originally built in the 14th-century as a place of worship, business and charity. Three separate halls contain gold and silver collections, furniture and paintings, providing a fascinating glimpse into more than 600 years of history.For more suggestions of the best things to do in the city, see our guide.
When appetite strikes midday, steer towards the inviting ambiance of Café No.8 Bistro. Within the concealed tranquility of its garden, this charming bistro flawlessly delivers a selection of simple yet immaculate dishes. For an extended selection of premier eating establishments in York, be sure to check out our comprehensive guide.
Afterward, immerse yourself in a culturally rich afternoon by attending a performance at York Theatre Royal. Following a multi-million pound renovation in 2016, the theatre boasts a cutting-edge sound system as part of its top-notch facilities. As one of Britain's most historic theatres, it consistently offers a diverse repertoire of top-rated performances. Whether it's Shakespearean classics, humorous pantomimes, engaging workshops, or energizing live music, there's a show for every taste. While there's a chance you might secure same-day tickets for certain shows, it's generally advisable to reserve in advance, especially for popular or evening performances. Did you know that York Theatre Royal dates back to 1744? It's a testament to the city's rich cultural lineage and a living piece of York's history! Reserve your seat and be part of this lasting tradition!
Evening
Treat yourself to an exquisite dining experience at The Star Inn The City, nestled within the Lendal Engine House. This exceptional locale, recognized for its superb design, has breathed new life into a historical water board infrastructure situated between the River Ouse and Museum Gardens, creating an unrivaled venue in York for relishing British cuisine.
Kick back and unwind after your dinner with a visit to Valhalla, a Norse-inspired music bar and café just a stone's throw from The Shambles. The place is born out of the passion of Viking enthusiasts who went above and beyond with the interior design. It features elements like a glass cabinet containing a skull and horn, the warm glow of electric candles, and sturdy oak tables that could have belonged to Thor. This venue leans heavily towards rock music and offers an extensive selection of wines, spirits, and local beers.
Enjoy a delightful meal at The Star Inn The City, located in the historic Lendal Engine House - a one-of-a-kind dining experience indeed.
Roam around Bishopthorpe Road, fondly referred to as Bishy Road, and discover a slew of independent shops and eating joints. Satisfy your seafood cravings at The Fisherman’s Wife with their traditional fish and chips, or unwind at Stanley & Ramona coffee shop, preferably with a window seat where you can observe the world outside while savoring their handcrafted brownies and a cup of their exclusive tea odyssey.
Highlight Activities
Your visit to York will be surely incomplete without witnessing evensong at York Minster, performed by one of the oldest choirs in the UK, a tradition dating back centuries. You can embrace this serene experience daily at 5.15pm from Monday to Saturday, and at 4pm on Sundays.
City Insider
Avail the York Pass, ranging from a single-day York City Card with free access to over 25 spectacular attractions, to the multi-day York & Beyond Explorer Pass, which offers admission to a whopping 49 landmarks starting from just £55.
Grays Court York, the oldest continuously inhabited house in England, dates back to 1091 and is just a few steps from the Minster. The elegant rooms are all on the second floor and the best have a direct Minster or garden view.The large, mature garden has steps straight onto the walls (the city's only house with this access).
Did you know?
York is considered by some to be one of Europe’s most haunted cities, with an untold number of sighting and haunted buildings – discover them on aguided ghost walk.
Where to stay Luxury living
Sister property to No 15 by GuestHouse, Bath (with properties in Margate and Brighton in the offing), No.1 by GuestHouse, York is a graceful Regency townhouse in Clifton, a 10-minute walk from York Minster. Rooms are decorated in cool, neutral tones, interspersed with modern art and pieces of whimsy such as vinyl record players and original Georgian dollshouses. There’s a bar, lounge and restaurant and an intimate spa in the basement.
Starting at £170, you can enjoy a comfy stay inclusive of breakfast.
Chic indulgence
The city's accommodation scene has a fresh player in the form of Malmaison York, a stylish hotel created from a 1960's office block. Situated five minutes from the railway station, the hotel boasts vivid hues, contemporary art, innovative meeting spaces, and sophisticated rooftop bar for cocktail enthusiasts.
Bare minimum for a room starts at £118 without breakfast.
Cost-effective sanctuary
Without punching a hole in your pocket, the vibrant, dynamic, exciting, neon-glowing Safestay, a creatively transformed hostel nestled in a historic Georgian building near the city walls offers fantastic value for money. Outshining other establishments in its pricing category, Safestay elevates the standards with its splendid facilities and excellent quality. Its rooms, steeped in rich, dark wood and beefy furniture, reflect a flair for remarkable design.
From
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Rich in vibrancy, Safestay paints a lively portrait with its pink walls, bold, striped floor coverings and wallpapers. Citrus-hued furniture and a brightly colored reception desk add to this eclectic mix, yet, a dash of tasteful elements ensures a balanced visual experience.
It offers a select assortment of double bedrooms. For additional recommendations on top hotels to stay in within the city, do explore our guide.
Pondering over what to take back home?
Make it a point to visit Betty's, a traditional Yorkshire tea room, for a special treat. Bettys takes pride in their fat rascals - plump, fruity rock cakes concocted from a time-honoured secret recipe. These delicious treats strike a delightful balance between being a bun and a scone.
For those with a sweet tooth, Monk Bar Chocolatiers is the place to visit. Here, you can indulge in hand-crafted chocolates made with the finest ingredients from France and Belgium. As an added treat, you can watch the chocolates undergo various stages in the production process.
Wondering about the best time to visit?
York is a city that never truly has an 'off' season. Regardless of the time of year or weather conditions, the city is always bustling with myriad festivals and events. Drawing in tourists with diverse interests - be it culture, history, shopping, gastronomy or sports, York is an ever popular destination. Even though spring and summer witness the peak of tourism with numerous events including the racing season at York Racecourse, it's critical to note that accommodation during this time could be steeply priced. If you prefer quieter times, periods to avoid would be the weekends in July and August.
York really comes to life in autumn and winter. It’s cold but magical, lamp-lit and atmospheric; imagine a pale moon rising over the shadow of The Minster, the evening streets filled with the sound of bells. Many pubs have open fires to warm up by after a walk along cobbled streets or river paths and there are few more romantic places to be in the run up to Christmas. Under a dusting of snow, the Christmas Market’s stalls, lights and carolling attract a crowd of shoppers, who leave giddy as kippers after too many mulled ciders.
Know before you go Essential information
The best local tourist information service isvisityork.org, which also has offices and incredibly helpful staff at 21 Parliament Street, York. YO1 8SG (01904 554455).
Ahandy NHS Walk-In Centre is located at 31 Monkgate, York, YO31 7WA (01904 725 401); open daily between 8am-6pm. For more serious problems and A&E,York Hospitalis on Wigginton Road, York, YO31 8HE.
The basics
Currency: Pound sterling
Telephone code: 00 44