THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN YORK, – MY FAVOURITE PLACE TO VISIT IN THE WHOLE OF ENGLAND!

York, a city in Northern England, is undoubtedly my favourite place to visit in the entire UK. It has everything that I love – medieval streets, exciting history, and plenty of things to see and do. The city still retains its distinct character and medieval feel, making it feel like a time capsule. Unlike other cities that have succumbed to modern developments, York has kept its character intact – walking through it feels like stepping back in time. With its rebellious and dark past, having been occupied by the Romans over 2,000 years ago and falling in and out of royal favour with various kings throughout the ages, York is steeped in history. Having visited several times, I want to share with you the best things to do in York and show you why it’s such an exciting destination to explore.

I first became inspired to visit York when I was living in Sydney, Australia, where I stumbled upon an article about the city. Despite being just over an hour away by train in Manchester where I used to live, I’d never visited before and knew virtually nothing about the place. Less than a year later, when I was back in England, I made two separate trips to the city – one on a lovely, hot summer’s day soon after our return to the UK, and the other for the annual Christmas Markets.

During my visit, I kept wondering whether the newspaper article I’d read almost a year ago lived up to the hype. Spoiler alert – it totally does!

THINGS TO DO IN YORK

York is a wonderful city with plenty of options for activities. I have personally visited many of the top attractions and have a long bucket list for future visits. If you plan on travelling to this amazing city, make sure to add these places to your own bucket list.

YORK CITY WALLS

On my first trip to York with my buddy Jemma, we had a bit of a laugh when we took a wrong turn, but eventually, we found ourselves on the charming York City Walls. These ancient walls were like a blast from the past, offering us a cool intro to the city. Our stroll took us past Lendal Bridge decked out with crests and those iconic white roses, and eventually led us to Monk Bar, a relic from the days when you had to pay to enter the city. Fast forward to my second trip, a wintry day with the sun setting early, we kept trekking along the walls, finally reaching Bootham Bar near York Minster. The spooky atmosphere got even spookier when a cheeky raven joined us, perching in an ancient window, reminding us of the place’s grim history – heads on spikes as warnings. We couldn’t help but wonder if we’d crossed paths with a few ghosts from the old days.

MUSEUM GARDENS

Exploring York always brings delightful surprises at every corner. One such discovery led us to the charming Museum Gardens, also housing the Yorkshire Museum, a treasure trove of the city’s history. Here, Roman relics like the Multangular Tower and a section of the old city walls eagerly await exploration.

Don’t overlook the remnants of Saint Mary’s Abbey, initially constructed in 1088, with only the nave walls standing today. King Henry VIII’s Reformation of the Monasteries in the 16th century nearly erased this splendid structure, but as you meander through the Abbey’s remains, sunlight filters through the open sections, unveiling its former glory.

Another historical gem in these gardens is Saint Leonard’s Hospital, founded by King Athelstan but devastated by fire in the 1100s and later during Henry VIII’s Reformation, which left York without a hospital for centuries. Its remnants are often mistaken for a church, a common historical practice. This once-grand institution, the largest in northern England, now stands as a solitary ruin, tracing its origins back nearly a millennium to the Norman Conquest.

Adjacent to this, the Multangular Tower, a Roman relic boasting its ten-sided design, carries an eerie charm, housing old tombs within. A leisurely walk further unveils the magnificent Kings Manor, a Tudor masterpiece in red brick adorned with sculptures and the Royal coat of arms above its impressive doorway.

YORKSHIRE MUSEUM

During my first visit to York, Jemma and I somehow found ourselves in Museum Gardens, though our original quest was Clifford’s Tower, located on the opposite side of the city center – my sense of direction is a running joke! The Museum itself, sporting a temple-like façade with grand columns, is a treasure trove spanning from the Jurassic period to Medieval times. Serving as an excellent introduction to York’s history, it explains the city’s historical significance as the former northern capital of England. While our visit was cut short due to closing time, we focused on the captivating Roman York exhibition, where we marvelled at a massive world map from ancient times, showcasing the Roman Empire’s conquests and countries with names surprisingly familiar today. Before departing, we couldn’t resist trying on replica Roman-era peasant attire, transforming ourselves into authentic Romans for a brief moment of fun.

YORK MINSTER

When you’re in York, one spot that’s an absolute must-see is York Minster. This grand cathedral, a masterpiece of medieval architecture, boasts a history dating all the way back to 1220 when they first laid the foundation stones. It took staggering 250-plus years to complete this towering marvel, and today, it still lords over the town center with its imposing presence.

Now, let me tell you about my adventures at this cathedral. On my first visit, I remember it being a sweltering August day, and the place was teeming with tourists. We managed to secure a slot to climb the Minster’s 275 steps for a panoramic view of York, but little did we know what we were in for. The ascent was a nail-biting journey with narrow staircases that seemed to squeeze in on us as we went higher. My friend and I, both anxiety-prone, had our moments of panting and pit stops that didn’t exactly win us any popularity contests with the crowd below. Yet, when we finally made it to the top, gasping for breath, the view was absolutely worth the effort – the picturesque town of York and the lush countryside beyond.

Fast forward to my return trip in December, where I was finally able to explore the interior of the cathedral. It’s a breathtaking sight with its Gothic design, the renowned Rose Window, and a section dedicated to notable tombstones. Among them are the final resting places of historical figures like Prince William, son of King Edward III, and Queen Philippa, who passed away in the 1300s. Additionally, a former Archbishop, Thomas Savage, found his eternal home here in 1507. As I wandered, I stumbled upon a beautiful Christmas wreath hanging from the ceiling, adding a touch of enchantment to this historic wonder.

THE SHAMBLES

I absolutely adore The Shambles! Stepping into this area feels like a journey back 500+ years to York’s past. The name itself, derived from the Saxon ‘shamble’ meaning ‘slaughterhouse,’ adds a quirky charm. Back in the day, it was indeed lined with butcher shops, a whopping 26 of them in 1862, painting a very different picture from today’s beautiful and beloved street. I can imagine that with all the leftover animal parts, combined with the way people lived back in the day, it truly must have been a shambles around here.

So, what makes it so popular? Well, the cobblestone streets, though a bit challenging to walk on, exude a quaint charm. The Shambles holds the title of being Europe’s oldest and best-preserved medieval street. Its Tudor-style buildings, with their timber upper floors and significant overhangs, harken back to an era when umbrellas may not have been necessary in the rain. And let’s not forget the delightful boutique shops that grace this historic thoroughfare, with their charming window displays. Fun fact: rumour has it that The Shambles inspired JK Rowling’s Diagon Alley in Harry Potter!

A word of caution: it can get exceptionally crowded here, whether during the Christmas rush or a bustling summer long weekend. So, consider timing your visit to a quieter moment, but don’t let the crowds deter you from experiencing this charming slice of medieval history.

CLIFFORDS TOWER

Discovering this charming castle online, I knew it had to be on my York bucket list. Perched high on a hill to spot enemies, it’s got that classic medieval vibe with stone steps leading to grand doors, surrounded by fields. And guess what? It’s right smack in the center of town, not out in the countryside like I thought.

On my first York trip, I’d start walking to the castle but got distracted by the medieval streets and pretty buildings. When I finally reached the castle’s entrance at 5:45 PM, almost closing time, luck was on our side. A kind lady was taking down the opening sign and let us in, promising to leave by 6 PM. Phew! The castle’s mostly ruined due to a massive explosion, but there’s still enough to explore. Climb to the top for panoramic views, discover the origin of those red bricks (spoiler: a 1684 fire), and enjoy a peaceful evening visit. Plus, there’s a blue plaque honouring Robert Aske at the mound’s base, telling a story that’ll send shivers down your spine. Don’t forget to explore the medieval chapel between the floors, where you can still see some of the original stonework on the walls.

YORK CASTLE MUSEUM

Opposite Clifford’s Tower lies a surprising gem of a museum. Initially, I expected the typical historical exhibition about York Castle, but it offers much more. One captivating exhibit showcases living rooms from different historical periods, from opulent Victorian parlours to humble spaces.

However, the standout is the ’60s and ’70s-inspired living room, complete with Christmas decorations and nostalgic items. As I stepped into this room, it evoked memories of my Gran’s house in Eccles, Salford, at Christmas. Gran had a similar toaster and kettle, and the kitchen cupboards with their white and brown trim were eerily similar.

The museum also recreates Victorian streets with cobblestone roads, offering a glimpse into the past. You’ll stroll past shops, a sweet shop, and even a toy store that takes you back in time. A section on Edwardian fashion and displays of army uniforms throughout the centuries complete the experience. Despite York’s Roman and Viking history, this museum offers a fascinating journey through the more recent past, making it a delightful end to your day.

ROMAN BATH MUSEUM

Discovering a pub with a Roman bathhouse in its basement was an unexpected delight when a friend suggested it for lunch. Nestled on the corner of St. Samson Square, a location known for its bustling Christmas markets, the pub’s sunny beer garden was where we savoured generous servings of fish and chips. The prospect of exploring the Roman Bathhouse beckoned after our satisfying meal.

Entering the Roman Bathhouse, our day took an intriguing turn. Right away, we were amused by the humorous sign by the door that read, ‘Any Unattended Children Will be Sold as Slaves,’ setting the tone for a light-hearted adventure. We were greeted by a lively gentleman at the entrance, his enthusiasm infectious as he regaled us with tales of the museum’s treasures. Soon, we stood before a large wall painting that vividly depicted Roman life, offering glimpses into communal bathing, massages, and steamroom conversations from ancient times. The museum didn’t stop at visual representations; it encouraged hands-on exploration.

Among the highlights were exceptionally well-preserved artifacts, like a pair of comfortable-looking tan leather shoes that wouldn’t be out of place today. But the pièce de resistance was the opportunity to try on authentic Roman armour. It turned out to be a remarkable ordeal. As I carefully donned a helmet, its weight felt overwhelming, making me wonder how Roman soldiers wore these without fear of their heads being squished. I decided to try another helmet, one that covered my entire face, and I couldn’t help but marvel at the limited field of vision those warriors must have endured in the heat of battle. Yet, the chance to pose with colossal three-quarter-length battle shields and wield wooden swords gave us a profound appreciation for the strength and valour of these ancient soldiers, who faced formidable challenges in their heavy armour.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO:

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT YORK, ENGLAND?

In my opinion, the best time to visit is spring and autumn. The weather is not too hot or too cold, fewer crowds and accommodation prices are generally lower. Christmas is also a magical time to explore York, as there are festivals, everywhere is decorated for the holidays, and you can feel a bit of magic in the air. However, be prepared to brave the crowds. Alternatively, consider visiting during the week or outside of school holidays for a more enjoyable experience.

HOW TO GET TO YORK?

Getting to York is easy and there are various transportation options available:

CAR:

If you’re driving from Manchester and the north, take the M62 highway. If you’re travelling from London or the south, take the M1.

COACH:

Several bus and coach companies offer services to York, with National Express being the most popular choice for its affordability and quality vehicles. I once travelled from Manchester to York on a coach trip, which cost around £15.00 per person and took approximately 2 hours.

TRAIN:

I took a train from Manchester’s Piccadilly Train Station to York on a Saturday morning, which took only 75 minutes. The journey was enjoyable as it passed through beautiful scenery and villages. There are frequent services available throughout the day, regardless of whether you’re coming from the north or south.

HOW LONG DO YOU NEED TO SPEND IN YORK?

If you have three days, this would be my minimum amount of time to spend here.

IS IT WORTH PURCHASING THE YORK PASS?

I’ve purchased the York City pass. I love the city passes, as they are excellent value for money. You can see heaps more attractions, skip the line if there’s a long queue, not to mention they are amazing value for money. You can purchase a York City pass here. I can’t wait to return to this city in the future, and I still have so many more places to add to my bucket list, such as the Jorvik Viking Centre and the York Chocolate Story to name a few.

Thanks for reading my blog post today on the city of York, my favourite place to visit in the whole of the UK. I’ve been here not once but twice, experiencing the magic of Christmas in winter and the summer vibes on a warm day and I can confidently say that this city offers the perfect blend of history, culture, and amazing tourist attractions.

Imagine climbing the steep stairs of York Minster and Clifford’s Tower – it’s quite a workout, but the views from the top are absolutely worth it. Whether shrouded in winter mist or bathed in summer’s sun, getting to experience York’s lovely skyline from above, was definitely a highlight for me.

The Christmas season brought a unique charm to York Museum, where festive decorations transformed it into a history-inspired winter wonderland, buzzing with holiday joy. The same goes for The Shambles – a slice of medieval charm right in the heart of the city, with its holiday cheer, cobblestone paths, and quaint shops decorated for the holidays that transport you back in time.

For those who love the fusion of nature and history, the Museum Gardens are a must-see. Ancient ruins amid lush greenery make it a place to relax and explore its history.

In conclusion, York has definitely left its mark on me, with its Everest-scale climbs, festive spirit, and deep historical roots, which all started from a little café one Sunday on the other side of the world. I can’t wait to return for more adventures. So, consider adding York to your travel bucket list; you won’t regret it! Safe travels! 🌟

Have you visited York before? Are you planning on visiting in the future? What’s your favourite thing to do while you’re here? Leave me a comment below.

Every place I write about is one I’ve explored myself, from hidden gems to bucket-list destinations. If you love real travel stories, insider tips, and personal adventures, subscribe to my blog and join me on the journey!

First Name

Email address:

Leave this field empty if you’re human: