35 Things To Do In York

Even though Yorkshire has long been divided into four counties/boroughs, York remains the capital of this picturesque part of Northern England. The city is brimming with exciting activities and attractions that reveal the many facets of its long history. Take a stroll along the city walls or drive your own boat in the river. York has the longest circuit of mediaeval city walls in the country, reaching over two miles and providing spectacular views of the city. You can travel via public transport to explore the city. We have listed some of the best things to do in York, check them out!

Sightseeing in York

York is home to some of the best culturally rich monuments and places. We will try to do justice when we write about these amazing monuments mentioned down below:

1. Walk the city walls

Entry Fee: Free

Timings: 08:30 AM - 06:00 PM

Location: Unnamed Road, York YO1 7LJ, United Kingdom

The greatest surviving city walls in England enclose York's downtown area with a stunning 3.4-kilometre circuit of mediaeval stone walls. A fantastic approach to get yourself situated and familiarize yourself with the city is to stroll along the walls and head on from over there to see other York tourist attractions.

The entire circuit can be completed in around two hours, or you can choose to walk only part of it at once, joining at one of the many gates along the way. If you love to take a walk and get some fresh air then this certainly is one of the best things to do in York for you!

2. Climb Clifford’s Tower

Entry Fee: £7 - £14 

Timings: 10:00 AM - 04:00 PM

Location: Tower St, York YO1 9SA, United Kingdom

The last piece of York Castle is the majestic Clifford's Tower. It is one of the most fun things to do in York. Although there isn't much to see within the tower itself, the view from the top is worth the walk. It is perched on a tiny hill overlooking the city.  Visit the newly opened roof deck for grand views. Try to use public transport to commute in and around the city.

3. York Minster

Entry Fee: £16 - £22

Timings: 09:30 AM - 04:00 PM (Mon-Sat), 12:00 PM - 03:15 PM (Sun)

Location: Deangate, York YO1 7HH, United Kingdom

The largest mediaeval cathedral in Northern Europe, York Minster is regarded as one of the most exquisite Gothic structures in the entire world. You can't help but stare and wonder how they managed to complete its construction about 900 years ago because it took more than 250 years to complete and the artistry is astounding. Make sure to visit the Minister’s Tower. Climb to the top of York's central tower for the best view in the city, so, If you like to enjoy a serene view, this item on our list of best things to do in York is the one for you!

4. Roam around the Shambles

Entry Fee: Free

Timings: 10:00 AM - 04:00 PM

Location: 5 Silver Street, York, YO1 8RY

The Shambles is York's most beautiful street; in fact, it was named Britain's most beautiful street in the Google Street View Awards. The cobblestone lane is frequently compared to a real-life Diagon Alley because of the buildings' sloping rooflines that nearly meet at the top. While roaming around the shambles, do try to drop by all of the stores as each offers a unique experience. This is one of the best things to do in York if you want to just roam around the city.

5. Explore the beautiful countryside

Entry Fee: Free

Timings: You can plan your walks throughout the countryside.

Location: Thornton-le-Dale, Hutton-le-Hole, Osmotherly, Rievaulx village and abbey, and Goathland.

If you have time, it's a great idea to spend a day excursion outside of the city and in the countryside because York is bordered by some of the most beautiful scenery in the UK. The Lake District, the Yorkshire Moors, the fishing village of Whitby, and the Yorkshire Dales National Park are a few of the best places to visit in York. You can get a licence in the UK and rent a car to explore the countryside as well.

6. Castle Howard

Entry Fee: £9-£17

Timings: 10:00 AM-04:00 PM

Location: Castle Howard, York YO60 7DA, United Kingdom

Castle Howard, a family-owned estate on 1,000 acres of parkland, is unquestionably one of England's most magnificent country homes. It is lavishly decorated with antiquities and treasures. It is well-known as the setting for the popular TV drama Brideshead Revisited. Its numerous magnificent chambers house priceless vases and statues in addition to paintings and carvings, antique furniture from the time period, and costumes. You can also join in on the events hosted at the castle (including night photography).

7. Stonegate and Barley Hall

Entry Fee: £8 -  £10

Timings: 10:00 AM - 04:00 PM

Location: 2 Coffee Yard, York YO1 8AR, United Kingdom

Near York Minster, the area between Coney Street and King's Square is a bustling pedestrianized shopping district renowned for its winding cobblestone streets and quaint boutiques and cafés. Once you do arrive at Stonegate, make sure to visit the bard, it is one of the best places to visit in York.  Stonegate's Barley Hall is a 14th-century townhouse that strives to give visitors an accurate glimpse of mediaeval life is another worthwhile visit.

8. Visit York's Many Churches

Entry Fee: Free

Timings: -N/A-

Location: York

St. Martin-le-Grand in Coney Street, with its attractive blend of mediaeval and modern architecture, and St. Michael's in Spurriergate, with its 12th-century arcades, glass paintings, and striking 18th-century altarpiece, are two of York's loveliest churches. Other notable churches include St. Margaret's, St. Mary's in Bishop hill Junior, St. Denys' in Walmgate, and the charming little Trinity Church (14th century) in Goodramgate. These are some of the best York attractions to visit. After a delightful day exploring York's vibrant attractions, why not treat yourself to a cozy coffee at the 15 best cafes in York!

9. Head to Beverley to See Yorkshire's Other Minster

Entry Fee: Free entry

Timings: 10:00 AM - 04:00 PM (Mon-Sat), 12:00 PM - 04:00 PM (Sun)

Location: 38 Highgate, Beverley HU17 0DN, United Kingdom

The Beverley Minster, a 334-foot-long church that serves as a stand-in for London's Westminster Abbey in the popular television series Queen Victoria. The Maiden's Tomb is a notable highlight. While you’re there make sure to take the Roof tour and Minster tour, among other fun things to do in York.

10. York Dungeon

Entry Fee: £11-£22.50

Timings: 11:00 AM - 04:00 PM

Location: 12 Clifford St, York YO1 9RD, United Kingdom

The York Dungeon is a 75-minute trip through more than 2000 years of York's horrifying past that combines horrifying characters, and immersive sets. Try to purchase a York Dungeons ticket that is two for one.  Spend more and partake in the dungeon late at night, it is a must-do activity anytime you visit this York attraction.

11. Merchant Adventurers' Hall

Entry Fee: £4-£8

Timings: 10:00 AM - 04:30 PM (Sun - Fri), 10:00 AM - 01:30 PM (Sat)

Location: Fossgate, York YO1 9XD, United Kingdom

The Merchant Adventurers Hall, an impressive semi-wooded structure and one of the oldest guild halls of its kind in Great Britain. Try to make the best of your time by exploring the undercroft while you are at this beautiful York attraction. There's an interactive game here where you may examine the primitive market forces in action and explore business opportunities overseas by exchanging items like wine, wool, and fabric.

12. Rowntree Park

Entry Fee: Free

Timings:  08:00 AM-08:30 PM(Mon - Fri), 09:00 AM-08:30 PM(Sat-Sun)

Location: Terry Ave, York YO23 1JQ, United Kingdom

Rowntree Park, located on the flood levels of the River Ouse, is a lush haven with amenities such as a playground, picnic spaces, tennis courts, and a large lake. In the summer, the park is especially popular with families, and in the winter, couples out for a romantic stroll frequent it.

13. York Cold War Bunker

Entry Fee: £10-£15

Timings: 10:00 AM - 04:00 PM (Sun-Sat)

Location: Monument Cl, Holgate, York YO24 4HT, United Kingdom

The York Cold War Bunker is an intriguing landmark that first opened to the public in 1961. It is still one of the few Royal Observer Corps bunkers in the UK and was built as a refuge in the event of nuclear war. The museum is well-maintained and amongst the list of the best York attractions, and offers visitors a fascinating look into living during dreadful times.

14. St Mary's Abbey

Entry Fee: Free

Timings: 09:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Location: York YO30 7DR, United Kingdom

One of the wealthiest and most powerful monasteries in northern England at one point was St. Mary's Abbey. Near the outskirts of the city centre, its massive ruins are presently preserved in the York Museum Gardens.

15. National Trust - Treasurer's House, York

Entry Fee: £8- £10

Timings: 11:00 AM - 04:00 PM (select days)

Location: Minster Yard, York YO1 7JL, United Kingdom

A well-preserved home from the 17th and 18th centuries, The Treasurer's House is stuffed with furnishings, linens, paintings, and ceramics. It is hidden behind York's Minster and held by the National Trust. We will recommend you check out the Townhouse while you’re there. If you’re done reading about monuments let's check out a few fun activities going on in York.

Experiences and Tours in York

There are a plethora of things to do in York but we have curated the best tours and experiences that will make your visit memorable. Here are some of the most culturally affluent experiences to have in York.

16. Explore York’s shops

Entry Fee: Free

Timings: Variable

Location: Minster Yard, York YO1 7JL, United Kingdom

There are other locations with adorable boutiques besides The Shambles. Additionally, there are locations like Stonegate where you can discover high-end department stores, as well as Blake Street, which is home to the vibrant Yorkshire Soap Company and the Alice in Wonderland-inspired boutique The Imaginarium. The Quarter is made up of many narrow, mediaeval alleyways, including Little Stonegate, Back Swinegate, Grape Lane, and Swinegate, all of which are lined with touristy yet endearingly quaint stores. Additionally, Bishopsworth Road is brimming with independent stores, boutiques, cafes, and restaurants.

17. Jorvik Viking Centre

Fee: £16-£20

Timings: (Timings change monthly) Current - 10:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Location: 19 Coppergate, York YO1 9WT, United Kingdom

There is more to York's history than just the Middle Ages. The location of that hamlet is currently home to Jorvik, an interactive museum that recreates a 9th-century village. Jorvik is the Viking name for York. Because the Jorvik Viking Centre is so well-liked, you should reserve your tickets online to skip the lines. If you’re someone who enjoys the rough old ways of life, then this Viking attraction in York is the one for you!

18. Explore York’s 365 pubs

Entry Fee: -N/A-

Timings: -N/A-

Location: York

With one for every day of the year York is renowned for having more than 365 pubs. The Guy Fawkes and The Golden Fleece are two of the most well-known York attractions. A good number of cocktail bars are available in York. Don't forget to eat a Sunday roast and sample the legendary Yorkshire pudding. Here is a list of the Top 15 Clubs in York that are a must-visit, and amongst the most fun things to do in York.

19. Drive your boat in the river

Entry Fee:  £20-£40

Timings: 09:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Location: King's Staith, York YO1 9SN, United Kingdom

Finally at number 19 on our 35 best things to do in York, is renting your little red boat and cruising along the river, which is a fantastic way to see the city and its various York attractions. Depending on the season, boats can be rented for an hour for between £20 and £40. It is enjoyable and wonderful to see the city from a different perspective.

20. Yorkshire Wolds Way

Entry Fee:  £55-£65

Timings: 09:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Location: Hessle, East Riding of Yorkshire

The Yorkshire Wolds Way, which is a part of the National Trail Network, travels through the lovely landscape of the North Yorkshire Moors and the Yorkshire Wolds, which in some places reach heights of up to 800 feet. The entire trail may be completed in six days, but you can shorten your trip by focusing on one or two highlights.

21. York Early Music Festival

Entry Fee:  £5-£10

Timings: refer to NECM’s schedule

Location: National Centre For Early Music, St Margaret's Church, Walmgate, York YO1 9TL, United Kingdom

Every year in July the week-long York Early Music Festival focuses on a new composer and theme. Events take place in some of York's most well-known music venues and include choral, chamber, and recital performances as well as major symphonic events. It is one of the best things to do in York while you’re there.

22. Afternoon Tea at the York Betty’s tea room

Entry Fee: Free of cost

Timings: 09:00 AM - 05:30 PM (Mon - Fri & Sun), 08:30 AM - 06:00 PM (Sat)

Location: 6-8 St. Helen’s Square, York YO1 8QP, United Kingdom

For anyone who has been on their feet all day, a good and strong cup of afternoon tea in York is a blessing. The renowned Betty's tea room is arguably one of York's greatest and busiest spots to enjoy a piece of cake and a cup of tea or coffee. This cafe is renowned for its excellent tea, coffee, lunch and cakes.

23. The bloody tour of York

Entry Fee: £12 -  £15

Timings: 06:00 PM - 08:00 PM (Thu, Fri & Sat)

Location: College St, York YO1 7JF, United Kingdom

This tour has earned honours and is recognised as one of the best in York. A girl named "Crazy Alice" will lead you on a voyage across more than 2,000 years of history. She will ensure you have a blast while learning about Criminals, Executions, Kings, Queens, Guy Fawkes, and more. Every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday at 6 pm and 8 pm, the tour is offered. The tour will likely run around 90 minutes and isn’t for people who are looking for casual and fun things to do in York.

24. York dinner cruise

Entry Fee: £12 -  £20

Timings: 06:00 PM - 08:00 PM (Thu, Fri & Sat)

Location: 1 Low Ousegate, York YO1 9QU, United Kingdom

York is situated on the River Ouse. Which makes it the ideal location for a boat tour. While on the tour, you can see Bishopthorpe Palace, the majestic house of the Archbishop of York, as well as other landmarks across the city's gently flowing canals. While taking in an educational and engaging commentary, and a delightful three-course dinner with wine, you can enjoy the stunning surroundings of York attractions while on an evening dinner cruise. One of the top evening activities in York has to be this.  

25. York Maze

Entry Fee: £18-£25

Timings: 10:00 AM - 03:00 PM (Last entry)

Location: York YO19 5LT, United Kingdom

The York Maze is a fantastically entertaining location, especially if you have children. It is located just outside the city limits and features a sizable maze among a cultivated sweetcorn field. Many of the rides and attractions are themed around corn, including the "Cornwall" climbing wall and the "Utter Carnage" water tower. York Maze offers fast-paced activities like the construction zone, falconry, and the spooky creature section as well as plenty of hilarious fun. There is a cafe inside the maze that serves hot cuisine, drinks, and sweets.

26. Tour Brew York

Entry Fee: £10-£15

Timings: 03:30 PM & 05:30 (Fri),0 3:30 & 05:30 (Sat)

Location: Unit 6, Enterprise Complex, Walmgate, York YO1 9TT, United Kingdom

See how traditional ale is made at York Brewery, from grain to glass. Since 1996, York Brewery has been hand-crafting authentic ales on Toft Green, a green space immediately inside the city walls. A 20-barrel brew plant with six conventional open-top fermenters and five conditioning tanks is presently housed at the brewery site, which was constructed in the late 16th century and has been used for a variety of purposes throughout its history.

27. GR8escape York

Entry Fee: Varies with team size and day slot (Mon-Fri, Sat-Sun)

Timings: 09:40 am to 09:30 pm

Location: 4a Colliergate, York YO1 8BP, United Kingdom

York may have a lot to do from clubs to museums but it's to switch it up with the entertaining escape game facility GR8escape. It features 3 themed chambers with varied degrees of difficulty. To make the rooms enjoyable for everyone, they contain puzzles of all forms. Anyone seeking a challenge and some laughter will find it to be the ideal tourist destination thanks to the helpful and pleasant personnel.

Museums and Galleries in York

Nothing speaks more about history than a city’s museum and York is filled to the brim with some of the most exclusive museums and galleries. We took the liberty of mentioning a few of them which we feel will make your trip memorable.

28. York Castle Museum

Entry Fee: £13 - £15

Timings: 11 am to 5 pm (Mon), 10 am to 5 pm (Tue-Sun)

Location: Tower St, York YO1 9RY, United Kingdom

The York Castle Museum is the ideal location for exploring centuries of York's past all under one roof. A standout is a realistic recreation of Victoria Street where you may browse various stores or just relax while watching the landscape transform from day to night. Visiting the museums in York are certainly some of the most fun things to do in York. Make sure to check out the Kirkgate exhibition.

29. Ouse River Sightseeing Cruise

Entry Fee: £18 - £20

Timings: 10:30 AM - 3:10 PM

Location: King's Staith, York YO1 9SN, UK

Within York's walls, there flows a river called Ouse. You can book your tickets for the Ouse River sightseeing cruise and cover multiple landmarks in a very relaxed manner. This sightseeing experience provides you with a fresh perspective of the City and makes you fall in love with its beauty all over again. It covers York Museums, Clifford Tower and a few Gardens as well. It is a must-have experience if you’re ever near the King’s Staith in York.

30. Go to the National Railway Museum

Entry Fee: Free (Donations accepted)

Timings: 10:00 AM - 05:00 PM (Wed-Sun)

Location: Leeman Rd, York YO26 4XJ, United Kingdom

There are more than 100 locomotives housed in York's National Railway Museum. Which is so beautifully laid out that most people will find it interesting even if they aren't railway nerds. You can view famous trains like the Mallard which is a record-breaker, and the only Shinkansen outside of Japan. There is also a sizable collection of royal trains, including those used by King Edward VII and Queen Victoria. An observable spectacle is that of the Flying Scotsman. This tour is amongst the most fun things to do in York for free.

31. Visit York’s, Chocolate Story

Entry Fee: £15-£25

Timings: 10:00 AM - 05:00 PM (Mon-Sun)

Location:  3-4 King's Sq, York YO1 7LD, United Kingdom

Rowntree's (now Nestlé) and Terry's both have their beginnings in York, which has a long history of producing chocolate. In York, six million Kit Kats are made each day, for a yearly production of over one billion! The fully guided tour takes you on an interactive trip where you learn the history of chocolate, how to produce it, and how to taste it like a pro, in addition to sharing York's chocolate-related tale making it one of the best things to do in York. This is one of the best York attractions for all the chocolate lovers out there!

32. Yorkshire Museum and Gardens

Must do: Check out the Ryedale Hoard

Entry Fee: £8-£10

Timings: 10:00 AM - 04:00 PM (Wed-Sun)

Location: Museum St, York YO1 7FR, United Kingdom

The Yorkshire Museum has outstanding geological and natural history holdings in addition to a significant collection of Roman and Anglo-Saxon archaeological objects. Spend some time in the magnificent Museum Gardens, which are open to everyone. Ryedale Hoard is a significant place of interest in the Yorkshire Museum. This lovely garden, which covers about 10 acres in the centre of the old city, is surrounded by the crumbling walls and arches of the mediaeval St. Mary's Abbey and is home to more than 40 different bird species. While exploring the cultural delights of York, don't miss the opportunity to extend your journey through time and art by visiting some the awesome museums in Manchester.

33. Yorkshire Air Museum & Allied Air Forces Memorial

Entry Fee: £5-£15

Timings: 10:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Location: Halifax Way, Elvington, York YO41 4AU, United Kingdom

The Yorkshire Air Museum & Allied Air Forces Memorial is a fun day trip for people interested in the technology and the history of war, and it's only 20 minutes by car east of York's charming centre. The museum also features the Wright Flyer which is a sight to behold. The museum is housed in RAF Elvington, a former bomber base from World War II, and it has one of the biggest privately owned aircraft collections in the nation.

34. York Art Gallery

Entry Fee: £5-£10

Timings: 10:00 AM - 04:00 PM (Wed-Sun)

Location: Exhibition Square, York YO1 7EW, United Kingdom

Stop by the York Art Gallery if you appreciate admiring incredible works of art. Here, you can find a wide variety of interesting paintings as well as some bizarre sculptures. This is a public art gallery therefore anyone is welcome to stop by and take in the works of art which makes it one of the best things to do in York.

35. York Army Museum

Entry Fee: £5-£10

Timings: 10:00 AM - 05:00 PM (Wed-Sat)

Location: 3 Tower St, York YO1 9SB, United Kingdom

One of the well-liked military history and fun things to do in York, the York Army Museum displays objects from the country's military past. The museum offers visitors an interactive look at the different conflicts the nation has been involved in and has a sizable collection of regimental items dating back to the 16th century.

We hope you enjoyed our list of 35 best things to do in York. Whether you're visiting for the first time or are a local looking for something different to do, you won't be disappointed by what York has to offer. If you like to party make sure you checkout top clubs in York.