Written by Graham Smith, Hannah McKinsey, Jake Evans, Karen Price, Sandra Frank
26/08/2025
Jordi De Roeck, Pexels
York is a city rich in Roman, Viking, and medieval history, known for its well-preserved architecture and charming, walkable streets. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks such as the York Minster, the historic City Walls, and the Shambles, alongside a vibrant cultural scene and a strong culinary heritage as the 'city of chocolate'.
For socialising, York offers a thriving pub scene, with many establishments contributing to the city's lively atmosphere. Emerging foodie areas like Fossgate and Walmgate provide opportunities for craft beer and local culinary experiences. Additionally, SPARK:York serves as a local social and creative hub with various street food vendors, and the Shambles Market also provides diverse food options for visitors.
Top 7 Things to do in York
Engage with York's profound history, explore its unique architecture, immerse in local culture, and enjoy scenic views across the city.
1. York Minster
Visiting York Minster allows for an exploration of one of Northern Europe's most magnificent Gothic cathedrals, a masterpiece of stained glass and stone. It has been a central place of worship since the 7th century. Take a guided tour, which is included in the admission, to gain insight into its 800-year history and architectural marvels. Climbing the Central Tower offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city. The Undercroft Museum, also included with general admission, reveals the Minster's Roman and Viking connections beneath the cathedral.
Cost: General admission for adults is approximately £20, which often includes a free guided tour of the cathedral. An additional ticket of around £5 is required to climb the Central Tower. Entry is free for children under 16 with a paying adult, and for York residents with proof of address.
Transport: Located centrally, York Minster is easily accessible on foot from most parts of the city centre.
2. Walk the Historic City Walls
Experience the unique opportunity to walk atop England's most complete medieval city walls. This 3.4-kilometer (2-mile) circular route offers elevated perspectives of the city, including views of York Minster, Clifford's Tower, and the River Ouse. The walk takes approximately two hours to complete, providing numerous photo opportunities and a sense of stepping back in time. Access points are located at the various 'Bars' (fortified gateways) around the city, such as Bootham Bar and Micklegate Bar.
Cost: Walking the city walls is free of charge.
Transport: The City Walls encircle the city centre, with multiple access points readily available on foot.
3. Explore The Shambles and Shambles Market
Wander through The Shambles, a famously preserved medieval street with overhanging timber-framed buildings that evoke a sense of history. It is often associated with the inspiration for Diagon Alley due to its atmospheric narrowness. Adjacent to The Shambles is the vibrant Shambles Market, home to a diverse array of independent traders. Here, visitors can find unique crafts, fresh produce, and a wide selection of street food, making it an excellent spot for browsing and tasting local flavours.
Cost: Entry to The Shambles and Shambles Market is free. Costs for purchases from stalls and food vendors vary.
Transport: The Shambles and Shambles Market are located in the heart of York's city centre, easily reachable on foot.
4. Jorvik Viking Centre
Delve into York's Viking past at the Jorvik Viking Centre, an immersive attraction built on the archaeological remains of the Viking city of Jorvik. A 'time capsule' ride transports visitors through a reconstructed 10th-century Viking village, complete with lifelike animatronics, authentic smells, and sounds. The experience continues with exhibitions showcasing genuine artefacts and skeletons unearthed during the Coppergate Dig, offering a tangible connection to the city's Norse heritage. The visit typically lasts around one hour.
Cost: Adult admission is approximately £17.50. Family tickets and children's discounts are also available. Pre-booking a time slot online is recommended.
Transport: The Jorvik Viking Centre is centrally located on Coppergate, within walking distance of many other attractions.
5. York Castle Museum
Step back in time at York Castle Museum, housed in former prison buildings on the site of York Castle. The museum offers an immersive journey through 400 years of York's social history, featuring recreated Jacobean dining rooms and the famous Kirkgate, a meticulously recreated Victorian street where visitors can explore shops and houses from the era. Its interactive galleries and extensive collection of historic objects bring the past to life, offering a fascinating glimpse into everyday life in York through the centuries. Plan for a visit of approximately 2.5 to 3 hours.
Cost: Standard adult admission is approximately £10-£11. A 12-month admission ticket for adults can cost around £17. Children under 16 can enter for free with a paying adult (up to 4 children per adult). York residents may receive free admission with proof of address.
Transport: The museum is situated in the Eye of York, a short walk from Clifford's Tower and the city centre.
6. National Railway Museum
Discover the captivating story of the railways at the National Railway Museum, one of the largest railway museums in the world. With free admission, it provides an engaging experience for all ages, featuring iconic locomotives like the Japanese Bullet Train and the world's fastest steam locomotive, Mallard. Explore vast halls filled with engines, royal carriages, and interactive exhibits that trace the past, present, and future of rail transport. It is a dream destination for families and anyone interested in engineering and transportation history.
Cost: Admission to the National Railway Museum is free for all visitors. Pre-booking is recommended to save time on arrival.
Transport: The museum is located on Leeman Road, a short, accessible walk from York train station. A road train service is also available, often with a small fee, which might be covered by a York Pass if you have one.
7. Join a York Ghost Walk
Experience York's reputation as one of England's most haunted cities by joining a guided ghost walk. These evening tours lead visitors through cobbled streets and snickelways (narrow alleyways), revealing tales of mysteries, tragedies, and alleged hauntings at famous landmarks such as The Shambles and historic pubs. Many tours blend humor with genuinely dark and detailed historical accounts, offering a unique and entertaining perspective on the city's past after dark. It's a fun way to explore the city's spooky side.
Cost: Prices for ghost walks typically range from approximately £10 for adults. Some tours, especially private ones, may cost more.
Transport: Most ghost walks start from central locations, such as outside the King's Arms pub or St Michael le Belfrey church, and proceed on foot through the city centre.
At TFA Travel we believe in travel for all. Our mission is to enable people to explore the world as easily as possible without having to pay a travel agent a huge commission.
Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
