York Guide
Welcome to our York Guide
Welcome to our York Guide, a useful guide that provides you with a glimpse into the unique sights, shopping, and nightlife available in this beautiful city. With an array of world class attractions, medieval architecture and a vibrant city centre the historic city of York has plenty for you to discover on your short break. From the iconic York Minster, one of the largest gothic cathedrals in Europe, to the award winning Jorvik Viking centre, the world famous National Railway Museum and the striking medieval walls that surround the centre you’ll be amazed at all this city has to offer.
Stuck for ideas? Our York Guide offers a wealth of ideas for all seasons no matter what you love to do! Steeped in history York blends together a rich heritage with a lively modern day culture providing you with the best of both worlds on your break. With a host of high street favourites, independent boutiques and quirky shops York offers a superb shopping selection. The charming medieval shambles are a must see and offer an assortment of gift shops in all shapes and sizes. While the city’s thriving cafe culture offers a great selection of coffee shops and hidden away tea rooms to stop and relax before continuing on your way. Not to mention the renowned Betty’s tearooms a hallmark Yorkshire institution.
In the evenings enjoy York’s eclectic nightlife. Whether it’s a boat cruise on the picturesque river, a discovery of haunted York on one of the city’s many ghost walks or enjoying live music in one of York’s many pubs. York has a fabulous selection of restaurants ranging a variety of cuisines so there really is something to suit all tastes. Browse through our York Guide to and get an insight into this wonderful city and all it has to offer you on your York break.
Treat yourself to afternoon tea in Betty’s Tea Rooms
Step back in time at Jorvik Viking Centre
Walk the City walls, the longest medieval town walls in England!
Get spooked on a Ghost Walk
Marvel at York Minster beautifully lit up at night
Enjoy a drink in one of the City’s 200 pubs
Jorvik Viking Centre
Step back in time as you travel back over 1,000 years to the Viking-Age city of Jorvik! Discover the houses, workshops and backyards in Viking-Age York as you journey around this ancient city in time capsules. The old-Norse speaking citizens are there to guide you along your way as you visit the blacksmith and his furnace and enjoy the smells and sounds of the Jorvik Viking Centre. Uncover why the Vikings came to York, where they came from and how they lived and died in this incredible discovery of Viking life.
York Dungeons
Uncover the horrible histories of York with a visit to the chillingly good York Dungeons.
Travelling to York
York Overview
York has excellent rail and motorway networks making it one of the most easily accessible cities in the UK. London, Edinburgh & Manchester are only about 2 hours away by train. Manchester, Newcastle and Leeds/Bradford airports are also within easy reach.
By Rail
York Rail Station puts you just a short stroll from the centre and is an excellent way to reach the city from all over the UK. York Rail has regular and direct connections to Leeds, Manchester, Liverpool, Edinburgh and London King’s Cross.
By Road
The A1(M) offers a great link to York from both Scotland and the South of England. Running along the West side of the city, drivers from the South should head along the A1(M) until reaching the A64 whilst visitors from the North should pull of the A1(M) onto the A59.
By Air
The closest airport to York is Leeds/Bradford International Airport, which is just over 50 minutes drive away and has many nearby hotels with parking. Other reachable airports include Doncaster which is just over 1 hour away and Manchester International Airport which is 1 hour 40 minutes.
Getting Around in York
York Overview
York is compact and easy to explore on foot. However if you want to get around a bit quicker and see even more find out more about buses, taxis and bike hire.
By Bus
The First Bus Service runs multiple lines across the city, with some running as late as midnight. York has a Park & Ride service from five different spots around the city and a hop on hop off Sightseeing Bus that does a 60 minute loop of all the major landmarks.
By Taxi
There are multiple taxi firms around the city of York, but the major service is provided by a company called Streamline Taxis. For those arriving by train, you will find taxis just outside the front entrance of York Station.
By Bike
Get Cycling, Scoot Cycling Hire and Bob Trotters Cycling Hire all offer an alternative way to get around the city on your short break. With cycle lanes all around the city and the centre being quite compact, this is an easy, fun and convenient way to get around York.
Cedar Court Grand Hotel & Spa
We love everything about this new 5* spa hotel! Formerly the North Eastern Railways Headquarters. The buildings historical atmosphere is blended with modern design. This hotel is slap bang in the centre of the city and only a few minutes’ walk from the train station.
Getting to York
Set in the heart of Yorkshire the historic city of York is accessible from all directions. Whether travelling to York via road, air or rail you’ll find this wonderful city is easy to get to. With several roads running into the city, and good connections to the A1 and M1 travelling to York by road is simple and direct. If you are travelling by air then Leeds/Bradford Airport is under an hour from York and connects to the city via the A658 and A59. York railway station is minutes from the city centre and has direct links to London Edinburgh, Manchester and more.
By Rail
York sits directly on the East Coast line and has excellent rail links throughout the country.
Facilities:
York train station has both long and short term parking, visitor information centre, car hire, shops and eateries. There are 11 platforms at the station. Outside the train station there are regular bus services and a taxi rank to help you continue on your journey.
Journey Times
To Leeds – 25mins
To Newcastle – 1 hour
To Manchester – 1 hour 20 mins
To Birmingham – 2 hours
To London - 2 hours
To Edinburgh – 2 hours 30 mins
By Road
York benefits from an extensive road network with the A19, A59, A64, A1079 and A166 all offering routes into the city.
Travelling from the North:
Join the A1 and take either the A19 or A59 into York.
Travelling from the South:
Join the M1 and merge onto the A1(M), take the A64 for York.
Travelling from the East Coast:
The A64 is the main road from the coast, but you can also travel via the A166 and the A1079.
Travelling from the West:
From the M62 continue onto M1 and merge onto the A1(M), take the A64 and follow the A19 into the centre.
By Air
With Leeds/Bradford Airport close by and Manchester Airport just a short train journey away York is superbly connected for those travelling by air.
Leeds/ Bradford Airport:
The 757 bus from Leeds-Bradford Airport takes you to Leeds train station, where there are regular train connections to York. Bus fares are £2 per adult.
A train from Leeds to York costs £11 for adults, £5.50 for children.
A taxi from Leeds Airport to York city centre costs around £50
Manchester Airport:
Getting Around York
Getting around York is simple, with a compact city centre, dedicated pedestrian areas, superb cycle routes and plentiful bus services in and out of the city you’ll find it easy to navigate. Whether hopping on a Coastliner to Whitby, jumping on the Park and Ride to the Designer Outlet or catching the First Bus No 6 service to enjoy bowling at Clifton Moor, there are plenty of ways to get around this beautiful city. Why not hire a bike and head down the river or explore the hidden solar system of the route 66 to Selby.
By Bus
There are plenty of bus services throughout the city centre. From the Park and Ride facilities to the numerous local buses that service York and it’s areas. If you want to venture further afield then the Coastliner offers services to the beautiful beaches of the East Coast.
Key bus providers:
First York – York’s main bus company provides frequent bus services throughout the city, running every 10mins during the day and half hour to hourly in the evening
Coastliner – getaway from the city and explore further afield from Filey Brigg, to Whitby Abbey and the picturesque Goathland - its all waiting to be discovered.
By Taxi
York has plenty of taxi services to take you where you want to go. From the taxis outside the train station to city centre ranks there are plenty of cars when you need them, with many 6 seater vehicles and more available.
Taxi Phone Numbers:
Station Taxis: 01904 656565
659 Taxis: 01904 659659
Getaway Cars: 01904 622228
Streamline Taxis: 01904 623737
D & P Cars: 01904 765557
Fleetway Taxis: 01904 645333
If you haven’t booked a taxi then there is a taxi pickup point on Clifford Street, Colliergate and St Leonard’s place in the city centre.
By Bike
York was awarded Cycling City status in 2008. With cycle lanes on the road and off road cycle routes York is a great city to hop on a bike. Whether you have your own bike with you or want to hire one there are plenty of facilities in the city centre, including ample parking available for your bike. Head out of the city and join up with the national cycle network or the Trans Pennine trail. Past the Millennium Bridge you’ll find the picturesque Solar System route, taking you all the way through to Selby.
Bike Hire:
Bob Trotters, 13 Lord Mayor's Walk, York, 01904 622868
Cycle Heaven, 2 Bishopthorpe Road, York, 01904 636578Shopping in York
You are spoilt for choice when shopping in York, from the main city centre shopping on Davygate, Parliament Street and Coney Street to an array of quirky shops in The Shambles and designer styles on Stonegate, York has a great selection of shops to explore. Whether searching for hot fashion, the latest chart music, an old paperback book, or seeking a treasure in the antique centres you are sure to find your perfect prize. For something a little bit different York has a great selection of independent jewellers, gift shops and delicatessens, plus with daily and seasonal markets there is plenty to browse through. Clifton Moore, Monks Cross and the Designer Outlet all offer great shopping outside the centre and with direct bus links from the train station and Stonebow you can easily discover the shops out of town.
Top 5 Home Stores
Fenwick’s, Coppergate Centre, York, YO1 9WY
Set over 3 floors, Fenwick’s is a landmark York store offering fashion, cosmetics, homeware and the city centres only toy department.
Browns, Davygate, York, YO1 8QT
An independent family owned department store, providing the best in fashion, furniture, jewellery and more. With a relaxing café it’s the ideal place to do your shopping.
22 Interiors, 22 Goodramgate, York, YO17LG
Enjoy designer shopping at 22 Interiors with 2 floors of modern furniture, contemporary household gifts, lighting and home accessories.
Porcupine, 16 Swinegate York, YO1 8AZ
A family run business selling a variety of unusual gifts, bespoke furniture and unique home ware.
Mulberry Hall, Mulberry Hall, 17-19 Stonegate, York, YO1 8ZW
Set in a stunning 15th Century building Mulberry Hall offers a superb selection of fine china, crystal, cutlery and cookware.
Top 5 Fashion Shops
Ness, 47 Stonegate, York, YO1 8AW
The only Ness shop outside of Scotland, Ness York offers a great selection of woman’s clothing and accessories with a decidedly different tartan feel.
One Boutique, 1 Grape Lane, York, YO1 7HU
A fashion boutique selling a superb range of clothing, accessories, shoes, jewellery and gifts from ethical sources.
Priestley's Vintage Clothing, 1 Norman Court, 11, Grape Lane
For retro chic style Priestly’s is the place to be. Tucked away on Swinegate it offers a great range of unique clothing for men and women.
Sarah Coggles, 91 – 93 Low Petergate, York, YO1 7HY
Award winning style in the heart of York. Established in 1974 it has been selling inspirational clothing for men and woman ever since.
Topshop, 3 St Mary's Square, Coppergate Centre, York, YO1 9NY
LHigh Street favourite Topshop is the ideal place to pick up a stylish piece of clothing, without breaking the bank. From casual tops to dresses and jeans there is something for all occasions.
Top 5 Gift Shops
Christmas Angels, 47 Low Petergate, York, YO1 7HT
With a great selection of Christmas decorations, traditional and modern toys, unusual gifts and an extensive Teddy Bear collection Christmas Angels is a must see.
Give the Dog a Bone, 17 – 22 Fossgate, York, YO1 9TA
From Retro toys to distinctive home items and quirky gifts Give the Dog a Bone is a great shop for that unexpected gift. Beware you could find yourself losing time here.
Porta Dextra, 1a High Petergate, York, YO1 7EN
A great range of decorated glass, ornaments, and contemporary jewellery hand-made by innovative British designers are on offer at this unique shop.
Daisy Tailors, Kings Court, York, YO1 7LD
An inspired selection of special occasion gifts and cards are available in this welcoming shop. With a floor dedicated to wedding and christenings it’s a great place to find the ideal present.
Red House Antique Centre, 1 Duncombe Place, York, YO1 7ED
Set in a Grade II listed building the Red House Antique centre displays over 30,000 items of antiques and collectables across 10 showrooms.
Eating out in York
York is home to a great choice of restaurants, cafes and pubs for you to stop and enjoy. From historic homes to modern bars you’re sure to find your ideal restaurant for eating out in York. With an eclectic mix of international flavours, locally sourced food and delicious tea rooms there is something new to discover every day of your short break. Whether it’s a romantic meal, a night out with the kids or somewhere to rest after a days shopping there is plenty to choose from. Plus with all the favourite chain restaurants too you’ll be spoilt for choice when deciding where to eat.
Top 5 Cafes
Betty's, 6-8 St Helen's Square, York, YO1 8QP
The renowned Betty’s tea room is a must for all tea lovers. With superb surroundings, sumptuous cakes and elegant settings there is no place quiet like it.
Café Concerto, 21 High Petergate, York YO1 7EN, England
Settle into the warm atmosphere of this award winning café and enjoy the best local food and a superb selection of cakes.
Grays Court, Grays Court Chapter House Street, York YO1 7JH
Grays Court is a beautiful and historic country house in the heart of York, with spectacular views of the Minster and City walls.
Goji Cafe, 36 Goodramgate, York, North Yorkshire, YO1 7LF
A superb vegetarian café and deli serving a delicious range of mouth watering meals, snacks cakes and a rich variety of teas and coffees.
Georgina's Café, 71, Low Petergate, York, YO1 7HY
Georgina’s is ideally located close to York Minster and offers a traditional tea room menu, with a modern twist.
Top 5 Family Friendly
J Baker's Bistro Moderne, 7 Fossgate, York, Y01 9TA
A relaxed and contemporary bistro that serves a superb local menu, plus there’s a special kids menu at £7.50 for a main meal, drink and dessert.
Ask, The Grand Assembly Rooms, Blake Street, York YO1 8QG
Set in the beautiful Georgian Assembly Rooms Ask is ideal for the whole family, with a children’s menu from £6.10, including starter, salad, main and dessert it doesn’t break the bank.
Lucia, 13 Swinegate Court East, York Y01 8AJ
Mediterranean restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating serving a great range of meals from pasta and burgers to steak and skewers there is something for everyone.
Henry J Beans, 1 Tower Street, York, YO1 9WD
Family friendly American themed bar and restaurant, serving a range of nachos, sandwiches, burgers, hotdogs, steaks and more.
Spurriergate Centre, St Michaels Church, Spurriergate, York, YO1 9QR
Within this 12th Century church is a relaxing café open to the whole family, with great food and great prices it’s the ideal place to stop and replenish yourselves.
Top 5 Evening Restaurants
Blue Bicycle, 34 Fossgate, York, YO1 9TA
A landmark restaurant of York, the Blue Bicycle serves award winning food in welcoming surroundings, rich in a colourful history.
Café No 8, 8 Gillygate, York, YO31 7EQ
Cosy bistro just minutes from the Bar Walls, Café No 8 perfectly blends its period features with contemporary décor and modern dishes, made with fresh local ingredients.
The Old Siam, 126 Micklegate, York, YO1 6JX
With authentic flavours and attentive staff the Old Siam on Micklegate offers a superb Thai experience, not to mention the delicious coconut ice cream.
31 Castlegate, Castlegate, York Y01 9RN
Set in a charming Georgian house, close to Cliffords Tower, 31 Castlegate provides a welcoming and intimate atmosphere in which you can enjoy a range of delicious Modern European dishes.
The Go Down, York House, 15 Clifford Street, York, YO1 1RG
A York treasure since it opened in 1995, the Go Down restaurant offers a superb atmosphere in unique surroundings.
York Nightlife
Home to a great selection of pubs, clubs, theatres and bars, York nightlife is simply thriving. From live music and comedy to the best touring musicals, and an array of pubs and bars in all shapes and sizes there is really something for all tastes in this great city. Why not spend an evening discovering all about York’s former residents with one of York’s many ghost walks, where you can explore the many haunted corners of the city or simply relax in one of the city centres great bars. For live entertainment there’s plenty going on with music, shows and comedy at the York Barbican Centre, Grand Opera House and York Theatre Royal, while Fibbers and The Duchess offer a late night alternative for live music. York’s nightlife also extends to a range of pubs offering late licenses, including popular chain bars, and a selection of clubs to choose from you can stay out until the sun comes up - if that’s what you want. York also offers three cinemas, showing the latest films, and has a bowling alley easily accessible from the city centre so there is something for the whole family to enjoy.
Top 10 York Nightlife
Ghost Walks
With a range of various Ghost Walks and Ghost Hunts throughout the city this is a great way to entertain the whole family and lasts up to 2 and a half hours.
York Brewery Pubs
Sample some of the local tipple in one of three pubs throughout the city centre, The Last Drop Inn, Yorkshire Terrier and the Three Legged Mare.
Olde Starre Inn, Stonegate
Dating back to 1644, this pub is one of the oldest in York. With a selection of quaint rooms, fireplace and outside courtyard it is a great place to stop for a drink or even some food.
York Boat Evening Cruise, Kings Staith
See York from a different angle with a trip on the River Ouse, sailing to Bishopthorpe Palace, home to the Archbishop of York. Evening cruise available Apr – Oct.
Evensong at York Minster
Experience this superb service at one of the largest Gothic Cathedrals in Europe. Evensong is performed at 5.15pm on weekdays and 4pm on Sundays (subject to change).
The Red Lion, Merchantgate
Built on 13th century foundations, the Red Lion competes for the title of oldest pub, with rumours that Dick Turpin stayed here it is one not to be missed.
York Barbican, Paragon Street, York, YO10 4NT
Having undergone a £1.5 million refurbishment the York Barbican centre is reopened, with a great selection of one night events from music to snooker and more…
The Grand Opera House, Cumberland Street, York YO1 9SW
Dating back to the 1800’s the Grand Opera House provides superb live entertainment, with the best West End shows, comedians, musicians and family entertainment.
York Theatre Royal, St Leonards Place, YO1 7HD
York’s oldest theatre the Theatre Royal produces a great range of shows for the whole family, from striking drama and Shakespeare to children’s shows and the renowned pantomime.
York City Screen, 13-17 Coney Street York YO1 9QL
With 3 screens, riverside café and basement bar, York City Screen is a great place to relax. Whether seeing the latest blockbuster, catching up on foreign film or simply enjoying the views.
York Bars
Famed for its array of pubs and bars York has a great range of places to choose from on your evening out. Whether it’s an exotic cocktail that whets your appetite, a local draught beer, or a dark beer from Belgium there is something for all tastes in this great city. With over 300 York bars and pubs to choose from, you are sure to find your ideal place to stop for a drink, be it a cosy drink in front of an open fire or a glass of wine in a cosmopolitan bar, York has it all.
Top 10 Bars in York
Micklegate:
With a huge selection of pubs, bars and clubs Micklegate is a vibrant part of York’s nightlife. It is ideal for a lively night out, though avoid if you enjoy the quieter side of life.
Evil Eye, 42 Stonegate, York, YO1 8AS
Evil Eye is a favoured York haunt, with a huge range of cocktails, shots and spirits from around the world and a great selection of Malaysian food it’s always busy.
Kennedys, 1 Little Stonegate, York YO1 8AX
Set over 3 floors and with a roof top terrace Kennedys offers a relaxed atmosphere, with live music, delicious food and a basement with dance floor.
Pivni, 6 Patrick Pool, York, YO1 8BB
Set in a beautiful timber framed building Pivni offers over 80 different bottled beers, 17 draught beers and 14 varieties of wine. Plus there is a selection of Panini’s and homemade cakes.
1331, 13 Grape Lane, York YO1 7HU
With a spacious outdoor area, three floors, restaurant and cinema 1331 is a great choice for a night out. With 2-4-1 cocktails, karaoke and comedy it’s a thriving bar.
Bobo Lobo, 5 Little Stonegate, York, YO1 8AX
Latin themed Bobo Lobo serves a range of cocktails, beers and wines. With a dance floor, live DJ and a restaurant area it is a bar that buzzes with atmosphere.
Biltmore Bar & Grill, Swinegate, York, YO1 8AZ
Once the former Elim Pentecostal church, Biltmore Bar And Grill is one of York’s most stylish bars and restaurants. With champagne cocktails, delicious food and a great atmosphere.
Dusk, 8 New Street, York, YO1 8RA
A cosy bar set across two floors, serving 2-4-1 cocktails Mon- Fri, it often has local acoustic nights and dance nights taking place.
Plonkers, 5 Cumberland Street, York, YO1 9SW
Family friendly during the day and with a late licence until 2am Plonkers is a firm favourite in York. With an outdoor area by the river it’s great day or night.
Salvation, 3 George Hudson Street, York, YO1 6JL
Open until late Club and Bar Salvation provide a great venue for your night out, with a mix of music, dance floors and selection of bars it’s the perfect place to party.
York Attractions
The capital of Yorkshire and once capital of Roman Britain York is a superb city with plenty for you to see and do. From the renowned York Minster to the celebrated National Railway Museum there is a huge selection of attractions in York to choose from. The compact city centre makes it easy to get from one attraction to another and with regular buses, trains and boat trips out and about in the area you can explore all of York and the surrounding area.
Top 10 York Attractions
York Minster, Deangate, York
York’s iconic Minster is the largest Gothic Cathedral in Northern Europe, with stunning stained glass windows, outstanding architecture and rich history it is not to be missed.
York City Walls
York’s historic City Wall’s are some of the most complete city walls in the UK. Stretching over 2 miles the Walls offer some spectacular views of the city, include historic museums and can be accessed from around the city.
The Shambles
With its beautiful old buildings, medieval street and quirky gift shops the Shambles is York’s oldest Street. Once home to the English martyr Margaret Clitherow the Shambles has a shrine to her.
Cliffords Tower, Clifford Street, Tower Street, York, YO1 9SA
A striking feature of York, Cliffords Tower was originally built by William the Conquer. Now an English Heritage property the Tower is steeped in a rich and varied history.
York Castle Museum, The Eye of York, York, YO1 9RY
The award winning Castle Museum is great for the whole family. With its Victorian Street, prison cells including Dick Turpin’s and fascinating look at social history you’ll struggle to leave.
National Railway Museum, Leeman Road, York, YO26 4XJ
The National Railway Museum is one of York’s finest attractions. With free entry, superb exhibitions and a host of activities it offers a great day out. With over 300 years of history there is plenty to keep you entertained./p>
Yorkshire Museum. Museum Gardens, York, YO1 7FR
Set amidst the beautiful Museum Gardens the Yorkshire Museum is home to a fascinating collection of archaeological finds. From Roman artefacts to stained glass and the famed York Helmet there is plenty to discover.
Jorvik Viking Centre, Coppergate, York, YO1 9WT
Running for over 25 years the Jorvik Viking Centre is one of York’s most popular attractions. With over 800 items and special child friendly commentary discover what life was like in Viking York.
York Dungeons, 12 Clifford Street, York, YO1 9RD
Not for the faint hearted the York Dungeons explore the gruesome side of York. From deadly torture, to witch burnings and plague victims there are a host of gruesome shows waiting inside.
York Maze, Elvington Lane, York, YO19 5LT
Open July to September, ad for Halloween and Bonfire night the York Maze is a truly unique attraction. Find your way through the corn field and visit all the towers in order. The Maze also has crazy golf, Quad Bike and many more activities.
There are loads of great events & reasons to visit York and here are just a few!
- 1
Various dates - York 800 Festival
A range of events and festivals celebrating 800 years of York being a city.
- 2
1 April - 31 Aug - Views Of York
Art exhibition at Fairfax House celebrating the city since 1610.
- 3
25 May - Farmers Market
Popular market in Parliament Street selling a great range of fresh produce.
- 4
27 May - Jubilee Street Party
Minster FM come to the Coppergate Centre for a day of fun and celebration!
- 5
5 - 8 Jun - Jimmy Carr
The popular comedian comes to the Grand Opera House.
Out and about in York
York Shopping
As well as all the normal high-street shops, York has an outstanding array of one-off, independent shops where you are guaranteed to find something unique.
Eating Out in York
York has an amazing selection of places to eat from traditional and homely local dishes, to every cuisine under the sun – Indian, Italian, Mexican and Thai to name but a few!
York Nightlife
York’s liveliest nightlife is centered around Micklegate which is a street lined with bars. For live entertainment take a trip to the Theatre Royal or Grand Opera House.
York Bars
York has at least 200 places to enjoy a drink or two. With traditional pubs and trendy bars there is something for everyone.
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