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Bucket list destination:

York

  • York, Yorkshire, United Kingdom (UK)

Last updated: 22 September, 2024
Expert travel writer: Will Hide

One of Britain’s most beautiful historic cities, York is a millefeuille of history, with layer upon layer of drama and intrigue, from the first Roman settlement in AD 71 to the bloodthirsty medieval period, when the Vikings came roaring down from Northumberland.

Many of the Roman streets still exist today, lined with a picturesque jumble of medieval houses, elegant Georgian townhouses and Victorian homes.  Cobbled alleyways run between, linking the world-famous 13th-century gothic Minster with imposing fortified towers and the two rivers that flow through the city, the Foss and the Ouse.

The city boomed in Victorian times, thanks to the building of the railway which made the city one of the most important hubs in the north for industry. Local companies such as Rowntrees and Terry’s Confectionery became national names, hotels were built and new residential areas of the city created.

21st-century York combines this diverse history with a lively student population, and a thriving restaurant and foodie scene, with independent bars, cafes and eateries dotted through the historic streets. Compact, and easy to explore on foot, York makes the perfect weekend break.

Tours, tickets & transfers

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Our selection of the best Viator tours of this destination, plus helpful tickets and transfers

  • York

The Bloody Tour of York is the multi award winning* tour of the City and has recently won the Arival Best Sightseeing Tour in Europe Award 2024. Join Mad Alice as you wander down the medieval streets hearing the gruesome history the city has to offer. Ghosts, Witches, murderers, Kings and Queens have all left their bloody footprints. An entertaining, educational and a fascinating look at Britain's best loved city, Mad Alice promises a night to "Remember, remember..." Suitable for all ages.

Price £15

Min age 5

Rating 4.95 / 5 [2181 ratings]

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  • York

We offer a guided historical tour of the fabulous city of York, the Capital of the North. Step into history with one of our knowledgeable guides and see the amazing sights of the city and hear all the history behind them. Our tours are guided by experienced historians and can be up to 3 hours in length, with breaks for refreshments if you wish, depending on your requirements.

Price £141

Min age 0

Rating 4.85 / 5 [1297 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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  • York

Dare you take a trip into the past and uncover some of York’s turbulent and tragic history? A past that manifests itself in the unexplained sightings of shadows haunting our streets and buildings. Let us take you on a journey through the streets and snickleways and tell you about the shadows of York. Note: The tour is rated PG and not recommended for under 8's. The stories change from time to time. But they do contain in depth historic details, some of which can be dark, sad or gory. These may include executions, plague, suicide or any other grim facts. Some young children may find it disturbing. Please check FAQ for more information. The shadows are waiting for you...

Price £12

Min age 0

Rating 4.90 / 5 [1246 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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  • York

Welcome aboard our daytime sightseeing trip in York, where travellers embark on an unforgettable journey through history, culture, and natural beauty. Our daytime sightseeing trip in York promises a memorable experience filled with breath-taking sights, intriguing tales, and moments of tranquillity along the historic River Ouse. It's the perfect way to explore the essence of York in a leisurely and immersive fashion.

Price £14

Min age 0

Rating 4.31 / 5 [1095 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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  • York

Why follow the crowds? At Yorktour we believe a great tour should also be a fun conversation, which is why we guarantee there will be no more than eight participants so everyone can ask questions and no-one needs to worry about being left at the back! This family-friendly walking tour includes all the key sights - including the exterior of the Minster and the celebrated Shambles - though we will also lead you deep into the medieval maze of ‘Snickelways’ to follow in the footsteps of the Romans and Vikings who created York. Above all, our tours rely on great storytelling rather than gimmicks - so if we can’t remember everyone’s names there must be too many people taking part!

Price £20

Min age 0

Rating 4.97 / 5 [658 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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Travel advice

When to go

York is very much a year-round destination. Whoever said “there’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing” probably had the north of England in mind: you could come to York in August and swelter, or just as easily have to buy an emergency jumper.  

If you don’t have kids with you, it’s worth avoiding school holidays, when it seems every child in Britain is queuing up for the Jorvik Viking Centre. 

Late November and December is a fantastic time to visit the city; York’s Christmas market is one of the best in the country, and there are festive events throughout the month. 

Getting there and away

York’s history as a railway hub means there are excellent train connections from pretty much everywhere in the country. Trains from London and Edinburgh leave every half hour through the day and take around two hours, and there are direct, regular services from as far afield as Aberdeen, Bristol and Liverpool.

Coming by train is the best way to visit, as once you’ve arrived, everything is within walking distance and there’s no need for a car. The centre is compact, and most tourist sites are never more than 15 minutes away. If you’re staying further out, your hotel or B&B will be able to call a taxi for you.

Getting around

Coming by train is the best way to visit, as once you’ve arrived, everything is within walking distance and there’s no need for a car. The centre is compact, and most tourist sites are never more than 15 minutes away. If you’re staying further out, your hotel or B&B will be able to call a taxi for you. 

Where to eat or drink

Until recently, York had dozens of tea and coffee shops, but not so many decent eating options. All that has changed, however, and the old Roman streets – Petergate, Micklegate and Castlegate are dotted with excellent restaurants. If you’re looking for something a little more offbeat, Fossgate, Walmgate and Gillygate are worth a wander for small indie cafes and restaurants.

See the handy website York on a Fork for all the latest news on where to eat and drink.

Where to shop

All of York’s main shopping streets are within the old city walls; Petergate and the streets around it are the place for small, independent shops and boutiques, while Parliament Street is home to most of the big, high-street names.