Destination guide for York

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. 

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.

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. 

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.

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.