Exploring Yorkshire: Best Things To Do In York!

Oh York!

The beautiful city known for its historical landmarks, the breathtaking York Minster and the incredible city walls which frame the quant but bustling town once run by the Romans, Vikings and home to the one and only Guy Fawkes!

There is so much to see and do in York – even just walking around the city and taking in the amazing architecture and ancient buildings is sure to leave you itching to know more. But there is more than meets the eye in York and there is plenty of fun things to fill your days with, including York’s famous Rowntree’s and Nestlè story, the spooky and enchanting ghost tales and stories and of course, the endless Guy Fawkes themed pubs!

So, if you’re heading to York and want to make sure your day, weekend or week is as enriching and interesting as possible…check out these best things to do in York!

1. River Cruise

The River Ouse is the main river that runs through York. Hop on a cruise boat at the river side at a variety of times during the day for sight seeing cruises, afternoon tea and gorgeous floodlit evening cruises! They even do party cruises which includes drinks and a bbq, the perfect way to end a day of sightseeing!

2. Hire Red River Boat

One of the things you’ll notice when looking over the River Ouse in York is all the little red boats floating on the river. They’re available to rent and take a maximum of 8 people per boat, and at only £40 per boat for around two hours – it’s the perfect way to sight see whilst social distancing! You can book your boat here!

3. York’s Chocolate Story

One of the most famous things York is famous for is the home of Rowntree’s and Nestlè. York’s Chocolate story not only transports you back to where the yummy story began, but also shows you how the chocolate is made today and you even get tasters…a chocolate lovers dream!

4. Jorvik Viking Centre

When in visiting York, you’ve got to see the Jorvik centre! Not only do you leave feeling like you understand the city and it’s history more, but it really sets you up for understanding just how rich the history and beautiful the city really is!

5. Private Ghost Tour

One thing I’m sure you’ll notice when walking around York is the giant man on stilts! No, it’s not a ghost…it’s just a man selling you tickets to see some! But the ghost tour is definitely something that you should go on (if you’re brave enough)…it’s so interesting hearing all the tales and stories which the locals swear by, and you’ll never look at the streets and buildings the same!

6. Hop on Hop off Bus

Ahhh I just love a hop on hop off bus! I think they’re one of the best ways to see a city, and especially when it’s an open top bus because there is so much architecture to see in York, it allows you to really take it all in at a closer level. It’s super affordable too and the perfect way to catch some rays whilst sitting back and relaxing. Of course it’s called hop on hop off for a reason, so it gives you full flexibility to come and go as you please throughout your time in York without breaking the bank.

7. National Railway Museum

Now, this might sound like a snooze fest but it’s actually really interesting! Especially when you get down to the basement and walk around the old prison cells…they really are creepy! It’s the perfect day out if the weather isn’t holding up, but also a really interesting visit for anyone who is interested in the more recent history of York.

8. The Shambles

The Shambles is one of my favourite places in York. Not only is it home to the shop that shall not be named, but it’s wonky buildings and fiddly roads make it the most interesting little road in York…it really feels like you’re walking down Diagon Alley! They also have an amazing food market, home to the infamous savoury crepes…delicious!

9. Yorkshire Lavender Farm

The Yorkshire Lavender Farm is the perfect place to wind down, take in some amazing countryside views and try lavender infused everything! From lavender scones, tea, cheesecake and even bath bombs…it really is a hidden gem in Yorkshire. It’s a little bit out of the way of the city centre, so I would suggest driving or taking a taxi…but if it’s a sunny day, why not make the most out of it and take a picnic!

10. Museum Gardens

Last but not least in the Museum Gardens, and not to mention the museum itself! It’s the perfect place to walk around the ruins, take in the beautiful scenery and relax. It’s super close to all the shops too, so it’s a little bit of safe haven away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre.

So there it is, my top ten things to do in York!

Of course there are so many more things on offer in York, like the York Dungens, York Minster (Duh!) and Clifford’s Tower, but whatever you decide to do in York, I know that you’ll have the most amazing time exploring the enchanting city…and it’s sure to leave you wanting more!