York has been transformed into an incredible winter paradise, and if you’re looking to catch the Christmas spirit this year then head over to the historic city for some festive cheer. With incredible street food, a world-beating Christmas market, pantos and even more. It’s the most wonderful time of year and we’ve given you the best things to do in York this Christmas.
1. Thor’s Tipi Bar
Thor’s Tipi is back at Principal Hotel and they’re bringing their pals Yuzu Street Food with them. Thor will provide the festive cheer with a whole host of festive drinks such as mulled wine, hot apple punch and, of course, boozy hot chocolates elevated with Baileys and other delights. Yuzu is also bringing the heat with their delicious Xmas fantastic Korean-inspired grub goodies which include pigs in blanket bao bun and tasty dirty fries. Station Rd, York YO24 1AA
2. The Winter Hutte
An alpine world in the heart of York, The Winter Hutte brings you a Swiss-style chalet like no other. Downstairs you can enjoy German beers and sausage in a bar environment. Taking centre stage on Parliament street and giving visitors a taste of alpine life. Michelin-starred chef Andrew Pern is hosting a new restaurant upstairs serving the likes of traditional fondue and raclette, specials such as pheasant with smoked garlic, alpine ‘spätzle’ dumplings, baked tartiflette with reblochon cheese and much more. Parliament Street, York, YO1 8SG
3. York City Cruises Santa Experience
York City Cruises 2022 Santa Experience will invite guests aboard where they can sit at their own table, with each child being allocated time to visit Santa in his Grotto. Tickets include a glass of wine for the grown-ups, 50 minutes on board the boat, soft drinks for the kids, goodie bags, a present from Santa and even all the tools to write an official letter to the Big Man. Find out more. King’s Staith, York YO1 9SN
4. York Christmas Markets
The historic city’s wonderful winter experience will return to York this Christmas. The streets are once again twinkling with beautiful lights and festivities. St Nicholas Fair is hugely popular and its charming chalets with great gifts and delicious treats will return from 17th November to 23rd December for its glittering 30th anniversary.
5. Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland
The North Yorkshire city will host the North of England’s largest outdoor ice rink, which measures a whopping 957sqm of real ice with a sparkling 30ft Christmas tree as its centrepiece. Surrounded by log cabins, a funfair and a bar the Yorkshire Winter Wonderland ice rink will be the most festive spot in the whole of Yorkshire this Christmas, and you won’t want to miss it. York’s favourite festive experience will open on the 18th November through to Sunday 8th January 2022. St Nicholas Ave, Fulford, York YO19 4TA
Read More: These Yorkshire Garden Centres Have Transformed Into Winter Wonderlands For Christmas
6. Bettys Christmas Afternoon Tea
there is no better way to celebrate than with iconic Bettys Christmas Afternoon Tea to get you in the festive spirits. Served up in the Belmont Room in York, you can enjoy the famous Bettys afternoon tea experience surrounded by history. The Tearoom unveiled its incredible window display earlier this month which looks incredible and usually sets off the festive season. pianist whilst tasting a selection of dainty sandwiches, specially selected teas and irresistible miniature cakes and scones The tea and sandwiches will be replenished until you couldn’t eat or drink another thing.
7. Catch a Panto show
York’s oldest dame Berwick Kaler is back with another spectacular pantomime for Christmas 2022 along with his regular cast of David Leonard, side-kick Martin Barrass, principal ‘girl’ Suzy Cooper and favourite funny man AJ Powell. We wonder if they’ll stick to the script this year… (we hope not). Grand Opera House, York – December 10th – January 8th.
8. Enjoy a festive bottomless brunch at Manahatta
Manahatta Christmas bottomless brunch takes the Christmas favourites to a new level with its free-flowing booze You can choose from a range of festive treats from the Christmas burger, which is a delicious pork and bacon burger with chestnut sage stuffing, an apple and cranberry chutney, Monterey Jack cheese and serve with skin-on fries, an onion ring and no menu would be complete without a pig in a blanket.
9. Play some Magical mini golf
The York Harry Potter-inspired mini golf course is made up of nine magical holes to challenge you at the Coppergate shopping centre, which they’ve creatively named The Hole In Wand. The course features wizard-themed holes throughout the course, with sets taking inspiration from the movies and including a few easter eggs along the way.
10. Northwood Magical Fairy Trail
Enjoy the winter at England’s Fairy and Hobgoblin Sanctuary from the October half-term to the February half-term. The woods acquire a magical quality in the winter mist and as twilight approaches under the seasonally dark and gloomy skies, in addition to having a warming beverage and cuisine in the off-grid Northwood Kitchen. This wonderful location is filled with odd sounds and twinkling lights.
Read More: 42 Of The Most Festive Christmas Markets And Events To Enjoy This Winter
