10 Best Things To Do In York

From Roman architecture, Viking history, an expansive 13th-century cathedral, and home to the largest railway museum in the world, York is a fascinating city that really does have something for everyone. From history to shopping, from fun-filled activities to expansive Yorkshire Dales beyond the county town, York is a must-visit to add to the bucket list. To make the most of your trip, here are the best things to do in York that give you an excellent overview of the city

What To Do In York:

 1. Free walking tours York

A York-free walking tour is a fantastic way to get your bearings and learn more about the city from an experienced guide. Start your trip with a free walking tour, and you’ll soon discover the best places to return to and see the alleys, ginnels and pedestrian streets that you can only access on foot. There are an of great little coffee shops dotted all over the city to nip into if the weather turns moody but make sure to wear supportive footwear and bring a womens waterproof coats with hoods so you are covered for every eventuality

 2. York Minster

A York must-see is the famous York Minster, a cathedral that’s been at the centre of Christianity since the 7th century. Climb the towers for panoramic city views, join a hidden Minster tour for secret spaces in the church, or simply marvel at the incredible stained glass windows.

 3. Ghost hunt in York

York is widely considered to be one of the world’s most haunted cities. As a result, you’ll be sure of the best ghost tour in York. Several organisations run York ghost walks; some may include live theatre, Victorian guides, paranormal investigators, or classic ghost tales. There are also ghost bus tours for convenience too.

4. Shop in The Shambles

The famous shopping street is one of the best-preserved sites of mediaeval architecture. The cosy streets, narrow lanes and shops curving towards each other so they’re almost touching is a sight to behold. Plus, there are plenty of independent and mainstream shops to enjoy.

5. Walk the walls

York city walls are an ancient monument that offers a fantastic walk to see the city from an elevated position. The walls provide a two-mile walk around the ramparts where you can see ancient architecture, Roman fortresses and towers, as well as the ruins of St Mary’s Abbey. But make sure to bring a womens waterproof coats with hoods and wear supportive footwear so you are covered for any weather change.

6. Visit the world’s largest railway museum

With over 100 locomotives and 6000 exhibits, the National Railway Museum offers a range of interactive elements and fascinating history. Moreover, the museum is free to enter, making it a fantastic budget-friendly place to visit in York. Harry Potter fans will find Platform 9 and ¾, while those with a need for speed will find plenty to entertain, including a Japanese bullet train.

 7. York races

If you’re looking for what to do in York, a trip to the York racecourse is a chance to dress up and enjoy the atmosphere of a race meeting. There are plenty of meetings here over summer, but you may wish to visit the racecourse for its vintage clothes festival or the music concerts they host. 

8. Jorvik Viking Centre

For an immersive museum visit, look no further than the Jorvik Viking Centre, which takes you back in time to York under Viking rule. From what houses would be like, the professions in the 9th century to the smells you’d experience back then, it’s a fun attraction for all the family.

9. York’s Chocolate Story

York became the home of chocolate, with the confectionary brands Rowntree and Terry’s both having factories in York. Now you can learn more about York’s part to play in the history of chocolate and discover some lesser-known factory facts and scintillating chocolate stories, as well as a café and shop to indulge in.

 10. Treasurer’s House

Treasurer’s House is a National Trust Grade I property next to York Minster; it offers spectacular and award-winning gardens and an eclectic collection of exhibits in the house. The house is thanks to the hard work of Frank Green, who renovated it and filled it with fascinating collections from various eras. Treasurer’s House is also said to be haunted by ghosts of Roman soldiers in the cellars and ghostly sightings of the previous owner George Aislaby who owned the house in the 17th century.