York is a beautiful city in the north of England and is classed as one of the top places to visit if you’re travelling the UK. It is crammed full of beautiful architecture, history and attractions which makes it the ideal place for a weekend away.
I have been fortunate enough to travel to York several times and every time I visit I am in awe of the cities beauty. It honestly won’t disappoint. Truthfully there’s so much to do there and it’s hard to get everything in one visit.
For anyone planning a visit to York here’s some ideas on how to spend your weekend away.
Historical
It would be a huge injustice if I didn’t start things off by talking about York’s historical sites. After all it York is known for being rich with history.
York was founded by the ancient Romans who named the city Eoforic, which roughly translates to ‘rich in wild boar’. It was later taken over by the Vikings, who referred to York as Jorvik (which explains why some attractions are named this). And they set about establishing the structure of York.
The city of York is surrounded by a large stone wall. Originally it was built for protection and to house the castles/fortresses that lay inside. York was the ideal location for such castles because of its riverside location and hills, perfect for lookouts. Over time, many of the original structures have turned to ruin. However it made room for new architecture to take its place.
Many of the habitable buildings that still stand date as far back as the 14th century, with the majority being erected in the Georgian era. At the heart of the city stands one of the best preserved medieval streets in the world, the Shambles.
Over the years York has been an epicentre for trade, confectionary, railway and the Church of England. No wonder you’re spoiled for choice!
York Minster
The York Minster is the beautiful cathedral sitting at the heart of city. It is believed that a structure, which stood in its place, was first erected in the 600’s. This was damaged by a fire and then later in a battle until construction of the current Minster began in the 1200s and took almost 2 years to complete.
The Minster has a gothic style which emulates the style at the time of its construction. There is a small park outside of the cathedral which is the ideal place in summer to sit and admire its beauty.
Take a walk around the outside of the building to admire the incredible architecture. Tickets are sold for entry to the Minster, which can be brought in advance via their website. Under 16s enter for free, whilst adults are charged £12.50.
Clifford’s Tower
Clifford’s tower is the largest remain from the York castle and plans for the structure were drafted by William the Conqueror. During his time the original wooden structure was built and the stone building, which visitors can explore, was erected during the 13th century.
Clifford’s tower is just a short walk from the Minster. You can’t miss it, as it stands proud on top of a large mound. I would say it’s not ideal for those unable to climb steps, but the view from the top is beautiful.
All visitors over the age of 5 are charged upon entry. This is £9 for an adult and £5.40 for a child.
The Shambles
The Shambles are possibly the most iconic and popular locations in York. As previously mentioned the Shambles lie in the heart of the city, right next to the Minster. They are a series of streets which date back to the Medieval era.
The Shambles consist of beautiful, overhanging, timber framed buildings. It is believed they were the inspiration behind Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter series. They used to be the home for butchers but now they’re thriving with tea rooms, confectionary, gift and jewellery shops. The ideal place to spend a few pennies.
My personal favourite is the Roly’s Fudge Pantry. Honestly it is one of the best smells.
The Shambles attract many visitors and due to its narrow nature can get pretty busy. Ideally try to avoid mid day when it’s at its busiest. Some shops get so busy that queues form, in particular the Harry Potter shop.
Alongside the Shambles runs the Shambles Market, I would highly recommend a visit if it’s open. There are lots of artisan stalls and independent retailers, plus lots of yummy food.
York Walls
The city walls have protected York centre since the Romans. Although they’re not needed now as defence, they serve as a walking path around the city centre. They are 3.4km long and take around 1.5-2 hours to walk. It’s free to walk along the walls, which is ideal if you want something budget friendly to do.
You don’t have to walk the full length of the wall, there are plenty of points to come off if you only want a taste of what the walls have to offer. One of the best sections is that around the Minster as you have beautiful views of the old city.
Activities
If you’re not that into history or are in need of something different to do then York does not disappoint. There’s honestly so much to choose from, that it will just depend on what you like doing. These are just some of my favourites.
Jorvik Centre
The vikings settled in York in 866 and it quickly became the capital of Viking territory in Britain. The vikings renamed the city Jorvik, hence the name Jorvik centre.
The Jorvik centre is an attraction and museum depicting the vikings life in the city. The highlight of the centre is the ride which transports visitors in carriages around model streets and life sized scenes. It is a must if it’s your first time to the city.
You have to pre-book your tickets to the attraction. It is £13.50 for adults, £9.50 for children and free for under 5s.
Axe Throwing at The Hilt
I’m not sure how many cities offer axe throwing but it sounds rather unique, right? The Hilt was inspired by the viking influence in York and is ideal for all aspiring vikings.
It’s suited to adults visitors and costs £28 per thrower. Styled a bit like a bowling alley, there are lanes where instead of bowling balls you throw axes! Up to eight throwers are allowed per lane and even better food and drink is available whilst you throw. It is another popular attraction and booking in advance is advisable.
York’s Chocolate Story
A few well known confectionary brands, such as Rowntree’s, Terry’s chocolate and KitKat, have all originated in York. Confectionary has been one of York’s largest industries since the 1900s.
York’s chocolate story explores this history, allows visitors to watch how the chocolate is made and maybe even taste some samples from these iconic brands.
Entry for adults costs £15.95, for children cost £13.50 and under 4s go free.
Gosh I’m hungry thinking about it!
Escape Room
Anyone else love an escape room? I am a huge escape room fan! For anyone who hasn’t played one before, then you are in for a treat. You have 1 hour to solve a series of clues, puzzles and riddles to lead you to your escape, whatever that might be from.
There are some themed escaped rooms quintessential to York , which I love. After all it’s nice to play something topical to the city you’re in:
Entertainment
There are plenty of entertainment venues in and around York. It’s all dependent on what you fancy.
There are several theatres which showcase touring musicals and plays. Local universities perform biannually at some theatres if you’re wanting to support local students. I can vouch the shows are exceptional!
If you prefer animation then I highly recommend the Everyman cinema located a short walk from the city centre. It honestly feels like you’re watching a movie from the comfort of your own home, except you can order food and drink straight to your seat.
If you’re a bit of a gambler then York also has a race course, located just outside of the city centre. It’s a short drive away or around 45 minute walk. If you’re not planning on coming to watch the races then I would avoid weekends where the races are on. It becomes extremely busy and is even harder to book restaurants/hotels/activities.
Food and drink
You are spoiled for choice when it comes for food and drink. I am a huge foodie and would just come to York to enjoy the food that’s on offer. There are many of popular chain restaurants available, so if you have a favourite always check if there’s one York. These are some of my personal favourites:
Stalls
There are plenty of fresh food stalls around York. The Shambles food court offer a variety of foods to suit different palates. The Krep stall serves delicious sweet and savoury crepes! A real must have for all pancake lovers.
Delrios
Delrios is an authentic, rustic Italian based in York. It has an intimate atmosphere and the service is exceptional. It is a family ran business and you’re feel like you’re welcomed into their family. Plus the food is incredible!
Delrios is ideally located. It is in central York and only a minute walk from a car park, if you’re commuting in.
Tomahawk Steak House
Tomahawk Steak House is the perfect place for those who enjoy a good steak and a drink! Its the meat eaters dream. The interior is modern industrial and has the perfect feel for a date night. You walk down a beautiful cobbled lane and outside are greeted by a cow, yes a cow!
Top Tips
1. Book weeks in advance
York gets extremely busy all year round. Booking weeks in advance is advisable to avoid disappointment, especially if you have specific activities and restaurants that you want to try.
Very few places have places available for walk ins.
2. Don’t rely on taxis
There are limited taxi services in York making it very difficult to call spontaneously. Just like with other bookings, it is important to book in advance for taxis. There are limited Ubers available in York as well so if possible try avoid using this for transport.
3. Hotels in the centre are expensive
Hotels in the centre of York are expensive, so make sure to research this carefully. By moving out of the centre slightly the price of hotels falls. For those who are bringing a car, I would advise staying out of the centre and save a few pennies on accommodation.
4. Plan carefully
Since booking in advance is important you have to carefully plan what activities you want to do and where you want to eat. Consider which activities are close to each other and book those in succession, which will avoid you from walking back and forth across the city.
5. Parking at the train station
If you plan on taking your car into the city, then you might find parking in the main car parks advertised is impossible. The train station car park is deceptive and you can usually always find parking there.
6. Allow time for walking
Although there is plenty to book in York, there are also so many cute shops to browse and architecture to admire. I would allow yourself time to just wander around the city, explore the cobbled streets and get lost in beauty of the York.
Finally..
Gosh I feel like I could write another blog post on York and activities and I’ve only just finished this one. For anyone wondering whether to go then get on Booking.com and get planning your visit. You won’t be disappointed. York is a must!
These are just some of my favourite things to do and the best highlights York has to offer. I’d love to hear your York favourites too.
Thank you for reading this far, it was a long one today! I hope this inspires you to get planning your next adventure, wherever that might be! Be sure to check out my pinterest on other blog posts, but for now take care..
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