Wondering where is the best place to explore at weekends, during the week or within everyday time? No worries. York, England, will give you a pleasant answer. Visitors or residents, everyone indulges in York’s allure. Follow our steps, whether you would like to know the best things to do in York, romantic things to do for couples, quirky things to do with your kids or find some interesting things to do in York, look through and you can get something now!
Best Things to Do in York
When you are preparing for a short visit to York City, knowing some must-things-to-see-and-do in York attractions is essential for you. Using less time to visit more sights. Here are the top things to do in York which will absolutely make you exhilarated and greatly valued.
National Railway Museum
- Location: Leeman Road, YO26 4XJ
- Opening Hours: Daily 10 AM – 6 PM
- Cost: Free entry (donations welcomed)
Here, you can explore over 200 years of railway history, from the elegant royal carriages to the record-breaking Mallard. If you are passionate about trains or simply seeking a special experience, the museum has a diverse assortment that will cater to all visitors. Picture yourself witnessing the glorious era of steam while standing next to these massive machines or engaging in hands-on exhibits that revive history. It is a location where the railway revolution thrives, ideal for families, solo adventurers, and those seeking adventure.
York City Walls
- Location: YO1 6JX
- Opening Hours: 8 AM – dusk (seasonal changes)
- Cost: Free entry
To experience unbeatable views while walking through history, you must visit York City Walls. The medieval centre of York is surrounded by old fortifications, with some dating back to Roman era. Enjoy a relaxing walk along the 3.4-kilometer path and admire the beautiful architecture of the city, including York Minster, from above. Every stage showcases different historical periods, from medieval fortifications to Victorian renovations. It is a complimentary and picturesque method to discover York’s history while enjoying the attractiveness of its contemporary allure. York City Walls are always waiting for someone who loves history or simply enjoys a leisurely stroll with breathtaking scenery.
Shambles
The Shambles is famous for its most well-preserved medieval shopping lanes in Europe. It is situated in the York city centre, featured with cobblestone streets and hanging timber-framed structures. In medieval times, the narrow street was a busy centre for butchers, with its design protecting the meat from sunlight and wooden shelves outside shops showcasing the meat. Despite the absence of butchers, The Shambles is now occupied by lovely cafes, unique stores, and delightful candy shops. It is rumored to have been the inspiration for Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter films, creating a enchanting destination for both fans and tourists. Whether you are looking for special gifts, trying out local fudge, or just strolling through its quaint streets, The Shambles combines history and modern allure that enchant all visitors.
York Minster
- Location: Deangate, YO1 7HH
- Opening Hours: Monday – Saturday: 9 AM – 4:30 PM, Sunday: 12:45 PM – 3:15 PM
- Cost: Adults £16, Children £5, Family tickets available
York Minster is among the most breathtaking cathedrals worldwide. Developed over more than 1,000 years, this Gothic masterpiece in northern England stands as a representation of faith. The tall buildings, beautiful medieval stained glass, and detailed artistry attract tourists from all over the world. Ascend the 275 stairs of the Central Tower to enjoy stunning views of York or admire the Great East Window, which is the biggest medieval stained glass in the world. It is absolutely a must-see-and-do spot, and York Minster can provide a memorable experience for everyone.
JORVIK Viking Centre
- Location: Coppergate, York, YO1 9WT
- Opening Hours: Daily 10 AM – 5 PM
- Cost: Adults £16, Children £11, Family tickets available; online booking available
York boasts a rich Viking heritage. The city was taken by Vikings in 866 AD and given the new name Jorvik. They transformed it into a bustling centre for trade, drawing in merchants from all over Europe. The geographical position of York made it perfect for trade, increasing its significance within the Viking society. Today, the city joyfully commemorates its history. Visitors to the JORVIK Viking Centre can delve into Viking life and discover their enduring impact on York’s culture and history. Let’s take a journey to the year AD 975 at JORVIK Viking Centre! A well-known tourist spot that is a must-visit in the center of York city.
York Castle and Museum
- Location: Tower Street, YO1 9RY
- Opening Hours: Daily 10 AM – 5 PM
- Cost: Adults £12, Children £6
Experience over a millennium of history at York Castle Museum. Located in old prison structures from the 18th century, this museum makes history come alive through interactive displays. Stroll through a replicated Victorian street, tour Half Moon Court in Edwardian York, and examine former prison cells with interesting exhibits.Don’t miss out on the chance to ascend Clifford’s Tower for breathtaking city views. York Castle Museum offers an engaging and educational experience for individuals of any age, featuring exhibits that cover a variety of topics such as fashion and crime and punishment.
Things to do in York with Kids
If you are confusing where you should go to do some quirky but interesting things with your kids, here are some recommended spots.
Meet with Harry Porter
York transforms fantasy into reality, attracting Harry Potter enthusiasts to visit as a place of pilgrimage. Each child will be completely enthralled in this place. People say the shambles street resembles the iconic Diagon Alley from Harry Potter and is a must-see, with its charming leaning houses almost touching each other. There has been a noticeable increase in the number of magic-themed shops opening up in this area, and they are quite thrilling to explore and shop in! The Potions Cauldron, located down the street, is a collection of various magic shops that focus on selling magical beverages, treats, and unique gifts.
Adventure in York Leisure Centre
Location: Kathryn Avenue, Monks Cross Drive, York YO32 9AF.
Take your children to have an adventure at York Leisure Centre, which is the ideal place for children to have a memorable day.
The centre offers everything from swimming pools with splash zones to sports courts and fitness facilities. It’s open from Monday to Friday from 6:30 am to 10 pm and at weekends from 8 am to 8 pm. Prices vary, with pool admission starting at £5 for adults and £3 for children. It’s a perfect place for kids to burn off energy while parents can join in or relax at the on-site café.
The Web Adventure Park
Location: Wigginton Road, YO32 2RH.
The Web Adventure Park in York is worth visiting for people of all ages, regardless of the weather! Thus, it is the perfect place for parents to spend a happy time with kids, which could be ranked as one of the most popular things to do in York with kids.
There is a huge play centre that is packed with thrilling indoor activities. Outside, children have the opportunity to investigate different play structures, such as a Role Play village, a water cushion, and two large bouncing pillows. Have fun playing in the sand and water, or visit the animal area to meet furry and feathered friends.
York’s Chocolate Story
- Location: King’s Square, York YO1 7LD.
- Opening Time: 10 am to 6 pm.
- Cost: £15 for adults, £12 for kids (ages 4-15); free for children under 4.
If you are searching for a place called sweet heaven, then York must be your destination. York’s Chocolate Story offers a fun and educational guided tour showcasing the history of York’s renowned chocolate-making families and their best products. From this tour, you can know where chocolate comes from, how to make it, expert tasting techniques, and the sustainable future of chocolate. You can also discover many unexpected secrets and interesting stories about York’s top chocolate items, including the Chocolate Orange and the internationally renowned KitKat. After you have learned about the process of making chocolate and its background, you can also enjoy shopping for and savoring chocolate as much as you want. There is a lot of enjoyment and discovery waiting for you!
Things to do in York for Couples
York City is absolutely a destination for couples. You can plan something based on these romantic things to spend your Valentine’s day, anniversary and every normal daily time with your partner. It is definitely able to make you forget the mess, but only feel two of you in the whole world. And leave the cherish romantic memory.
Romantic Cruise down the Ouse
With £13 per adult, you can get more than one time on the river. A romantic cruise on the River Ouse in York provides a peaceful and romantic break from the bustling city centre as it meanders through the heart of the city. City Cruises offers a brief 45-minute sightseeing cruise on the river for couples. The journey includes complete narration, and the vessels provide seating options both inside and outside. City Cruises also provides evening cruises tailor-made for couples, such as a dinner cruise, a fish and chip supper cruise, or a picnic cruise.
Opening hours: Boats depart every day from King’s Staith Landing at 10:30 am, 12:00 pm, 1:30 pm and 3:00 pm. Lendal Bridge Landing at 10:40 am, 12:10 pm, 1:40 pm and 3:10 pm.
Enjoy a Spa Day
If you only think York is an old-school city with lots of heritage sights, you are totally wrong. For couples, having a comfortable spa tour is enjoyable. Some high-end hotels offer high-end service spas for couples.
The Grand Hotel spa features a 14-metre swimming pool, a spa whirlpool, an aromatic steam room, a Nordic dry sauna, a relaxation lounge and a gym. There are treatment rooms offering massages, holistic therapies and beauty treatments. It is suitable for someone who really wants to plan a special date on Valentine’s Day in York. A 3.5-hour spa pass costs from £44 pp.
Other city centre options include the spa at The Principal Hotel next to York rail station. It boasts a heated indoor swimming pool, a sauna, steam room, jacuzzi, gym and beauty treatments. Day passes cost just £15 pp.
The spa at Hotel No.1 has special couples therapy rooms where you can enjoy a side-by-side back, shoulder and neck massage. This is followed by a bespoke mini facial with a soothing face, neck, shoulder, and scalp massage. A 60-minute ‘Time Together’ package costs £230 per couple.
Things to Do in York for Free
Travelling always hurts your pocket, but happiness from York could be free. Check out the best free things to do in York, which definitely give you great value for your money. Except for the attractions we mentioned as the best things to do in York, like the National Railway Station and York City Walls, you can find these valuable things to do in York for free.
York Art Gallery
Students and budget travellers can enjoy free admission at York Art Gallery, which features stunning public gardens and constantly changing outdoor displays. The gallery resides at Exhibition Square, York YO1 7EW and is open every day from 10 in the morning until 5 in the evening. Exploring the beautiful outdoor areas and enjoying the artistic ambience is free, unlike indoor exhibits, which require a fee. The lush green grass and artistic sculptures create an ideal environment for relaxation, particularly for those seeking affordable cultural experiences.
York Explore Library
York Explore Library is perfect for a peaceful getaway or a place to take a break from studying. Located at Library Square on Museum Street in York YO1 7DS, the library is open for free entry Monday to Thursday, 9 am to 8 pm, Friday and Saturday, 9 am to 5 pm, and Sunday, 11 am to 4 pm. You can enjoy comfortable reading spaces, complimentary Wi-Fi, and the use of historical records. For travellers on a budget, it is an ideal place to relax, rejuvenate, or receive complimentary travel advice from employees.
Parks and Green Areas in York
There are countless opportunities for affordable exploration in York’s parks. Both Rowntree Park on Terry Avenue and Museum Gardens near Marygate are open all year and accessible to the public at no cost. You have the option to go for a relaxing stroll, have a picnic, or discover ancient ruins. The gardens offer a great opportunity to take a break in the afternoon while exploring, providing spacious areas perfect for backpackers to unwind or get some exercise after a day of wandering the city.
Things to Do in York for Families
York, England, is a family-friendly city perfect for a fun-filled day out. You can never worry about any condition going out for fun with your families. Our recommendation is the top popular things to do in York for families. Moreover, easy-parking will release every “driver” to plan the family’s entertainment activity whether in rainy day or under the big sun.
Goddards Garden
- Location: Tadcaster Road, York YO24 1GG
- Opening Time: Wednesday to Sunday from 10:30 am to 4 pm
- Cost: £7.50 for adults; children under 16 enter free
This previous residence of the Terry family (famous for their chocolate!) provides a tranquil retreat with exquisitely designed gardens. Families can have fun exploring abundant foliage, spotting animals, and indulging in tasty treats at the tearoom. The delightful and cost-effective family outing includes a mix of history, nature, and delicious snacks.
Museum Gardens
- Location: Marygate, York YO30 7DR
- Opening Time: Daily from 7:30 am to 8 pm
- Cost: Free entry
Museum Gardens offers an ideal blend of historical significance and peacefulness. Families have the opportunity to visit ancient ruins, have a picnic on the spacious lawns, and allow the children to play freely. Featuring gorgeous foliage and historic features, it is a delightful, no-cost way to enjoy the outdoors in the center of York.
Piglets Adventure Farm
- Location: Towthorpe Grange, Towthorpe Moor Lane, York YO32 9ST
- Opening Time: Daily from 10 am to 5:30 pm
- Cost: £12.95 per person (under 1s go free)
Piglets Adventure Farm offers a day full of excitement with tractor rides, playgrounds, animal petting, and seasonal activities such as a maize maze. Families with active children will enjoy the range of engaging activities available. An on-site café is available for convenient access to meals or snacks during activities, keeping everyone refreshed and entertained.
York Bird of Prey Centre
- Location: Burn Hall Hotel, Huby, York YO61 1JB
- Opening Time: Daily from 10:30 am to 5 pm
- Cost: £10 for adults; £8 for children; family tickets available
Families have the opportunity to get close to impressive birds, such as owls and eagles, at the York Bird of Prey Centre. For animal enthusiasts, it’s a memorable experience with interactive bird encounters and spectacular flying demonstrations. Families have the option to bring their own picnic, creating a pleasant and cost-effective trip in the rural area.
Summarizing on Things to Do in York
Looking through our paper, you can know York is really a wonderful city for all-age people to travel in any way. If you are planing to have a tour, whether you would like to come alone, with friends, partner, kids or families, there are something for you!
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FAQ
What is the fun things to do in York for adults?
York is full of fun things to do for adults. You can have a city-tour at York city walls and find many magical-themed stores at Shambles. Or hike through the parks and visit some animal farms.
What is the unusual things to do in York?
York, England, is a well-known magic city, attacting all the Harry Potter fans all over the world. You can find many magical stores to do some unusual things in York.
What are the things to do in York this weekends?
Here are many wonderful events you can take part in this weekends and big festivals are coming! Halloween and Christmas. Events like dating for adults and some academic lectures are interesting.
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