York has to be the most popular city in Yorkshire, maybe even the UK, when it comes to tourism. With a range of things to do, it’s hard to decide where to start. And, after a long, dark winter, you might be looking to make the most of the summer months. Whether you’re visiting the city for the first time or live here and want to be a tourist for the day, we’ve created a roundup of the best things to do in York this summer to help you plan your trip.
From heritage activities such as learning about the city’s Viking past & walking the historic York walls to visiting one of its many pubs, restaurants and bars. There is so much to do that you could do something different on each trip to the historic Yorkshire city. So, let’s jump in and learn all about what the city has to offer.
Our Top 19 Best Things to do in York
To help you build your itinerary for your next visit, we have put together a list of our 24 favourite things to do in York this summer. Enjoy!
1. Take a stroll along the River Ouse
York is one of the most romantic cities in the UK, while it might not be the Seine, there’s something special about the River Ouse. Stretching throughout the middle of the city, the idyllic river has several waterside paths that you can stroll down – the perfect way to spend a morning in the historic city.
We recommend taking in the views from Lendal Bridge before descending the stairs and walking along the River Ouse alongside the Museum Gardens on Dame Judy Dench Walk. It’s beautiful all year round, but we especially love it in autumn when leaves litter the ground. But it is just as nice to sit and enjoy an ice cream while watching the world go by.
2. ‘Potter’ along The Shambles
Arguably one of the most famous tourist attractions in York, The Shambles is worth a visit every single time. This spot is York’s own Diagon Alley from Harry Potter, and you may potter through it for two minutes or twenty-five – either way, there’s a certain serotonin boost that comes along with the peculiar architecture of the famous cobbled street.
There is a reason this street is always bustling. The whole place is magical, from The York Ghost Merchants to the array of curious gift shops and independents who call the Shambles home, including our friends at The Potion’s Cauldron. If you’re taking a trip down the Shambles, here are some of our favourite shops:
- Shambles Kitchen – 28 Shambles, York YO1 7LX
- The York Ghost Merchants – 6 Shambles, York YO1 7LZ
- Monk Bar Chocolatiers – 7 Shambles, York YO1 7LZ
- Florian Poirot Patisserie & Cafe – 19 Shambles, York YO1 7LZ
- The Potion’s Cauldron – 9¾, Shambles, York YO1 7LZ
So, head down to the Shambles and be transported back in time with overhanging buildings, tiny cobbled streets, and a bustling atmosphere.
3. Take in the architecture at York Minster
Next on your list of things to do in York is to view one of the world’s most magnificent cathedrals, dating right back to the 1200s, and experience its breathtaking medieval architecture.
Stop off at York Minster, an awe-inspiring building where not only can you go inside and explore its vast spaces, but you can also learn about the Minster’s role in Viking York and the city’s Roman roots. I was lucky enough to have my graduation inside back in the day, and was so moved. You could just sit and take in its beauty all day.
York Minster holds the largest collection of medieval stained glass in the UK, and the Great East Window, which was completed in 1340, and is famously nicknamed “the Heart of Yorkshire, is the largest single expanse of medieval stained glass in the world. There is also the Five Sister Window, which consists of five immense 53-foot-tall lancet windows made of rare grisaille glass. Everywhere you look, there is a stunning piece of history.
4. Experience Afternoon Tea at Bettys
Bettys has become a Yorkshire institution over the years, so it should come as absolutely no surprise to see it on this list. Located on the bustling St Helen’s Square just a few minutes, Bettys historic tea room was founded in 1919, and the York branch opened in 1936. Guests can watch the world go by while enjoying the team room’s array of fine cakes, bakes and hot drinks, with plenty of Fat Rascals on offer if you really want to get into the Yorkshire spirit.
The interior is an elegant Art Deco space inspired by the ocean liner Queen Mary. Popular choices include a traditional afternoon tea, freshly baked scones and the handmade cakes and pastries. Make sure you try A Fat Rascal, created at Betty’s Tearoom. If you’re looking for gifts, Bettys is definitely the place to be, with tons of artisan chocolates and cakes available to take away.
Part of the fun of visiting the famous tea room in York is the common queues, especially on weekends and during holiday periods.
5. Take a stroll around the City Walls
An obvious choice for York tourist attractions, York’s City Walls still stand today, providing a great walkway for guests to enjoy. The elevated circular route, which measures 3.4km (2 miles), provides stunning views of the city, taking guests around famous sights such as Monk Bar, the Minster, and the River Ouse.
The city walls, otherwise known as ‘bar walls’, are the most complete example of medieval city walls standing in England today. They were mainly built in the 13th century of limestone. The original Roman walls can be found underneath the medieval stone work. One of the best times to walk the walls is in spring when the daffodils are in bloom, although with beautiful views on offer its makes for the perfect summer stroll as well.
If you choose to walk the walls, you should expect it to take around two hours, and highlights include the four main bars. In Museum Gardens, you’ll find the best surviving stretch of the Roman fortress wall and the Roman Multangular Tower with medieval stonework above it. And also the ruins of St Mary’s Abbey.
So, when you next visit York, get up on the walls and take in York city centre most fascinatingly.
6. Step into a Van Gogh painting at the new immersive exhibition
Fancy getting lost in one of Van Gogh’s famous paintings? Now a permenant fixture at York St Mary’s Church, the Van Gogh Immersive Experience brings to life the artist’s most notable works, allowing art enthusiasts to experience the works in a whole new way. A unique sound and light show puts you into familiar images of Vincent Van Gogh, allowing you to see one of the greatest geniuses of the last century work in 360 degrees.
The travelling exhibition has thrilled visitors all over the world, including Naples, Italy, and Brussels, Belgium. The awe-inspiring experience allows you to step inside and become completely immersed in Gogh’s iconic brush strokes, while taking in the impressive projections that have been taking the city by storm since earlier this month. Get tickets here.
7. Take a step back in time at Clifford’s Tower
Step back hundreds of years to learn all about the fascinating history of Clifford’s Tower in York city centre. You can learn all about the sights’ origins. It was a wooden motte-and-bailey castle back in 1068, built on the orders of William the Conqueror shortly after the Norman Conquest. The stone tower you see today was constructed in the 13th century. When you visit, you’ll see the remains of the medieval stone keep and elevated walkways and viewing platforms.
It has a dark history as a huge massacre occurred back in 1190 when York’s Jewish community were trapped there by a violent mob, and many Jews chose to commit suicide rather than be murdered. Clifford’s Tower is one of York’s most recognisable landmarks and the largest surviving part of the medieval York Castle. Sitting atop a grassy mound near the city centre, it offers some of the best panoramic views across York, such as views of York’s historic centre, York Minster, the city walls and of course the River Ouse.
8. Enjoy a cocktail at one of York’s many bars
Many people heading to the city come to enjoy the food and bar scene as well as to see York’s tourist attractions. So, after you’ve had a walk on the walls, snapped a picture of the minster, you might be feeling like you deserve a beer, a glass of wine, or maybe even a cocktail? York is full of pubs and bars, where you can enjoy all of the above. And, here are some of our favourite bars:
- Sora – 2 Rougier St, York YO90 1UU
- SOPHiE – East Lodge, Lendal Bridge, York YO1 7DP
- Evil Eye – 42 Stonegate, York YO1 8AS
- Fossgate Social– 25 Fossgate, York, YO1 9TA.
- Katie O’Brien’s Irish Tavern – Coney St, York YO1 9QL
So, head down to the beach for some sun, sand, and tasty scran on your next trip to the coast.
9. Satisfy your sweet tooth whilst you learn about York’s Chocolate Story
At certain times of year, the smell of chocolate lingers in the air. That’s the smell of history, my friend. You can take a trip down York’s sweet past at York Chocolate Story and uncover the history of chocolate from its ancient rainforest origins to its part on the cobbled streets of York in modern day.
You can take a look at 4,000 years of chocolate historyenjoy samples, demonstrations and you’ll even havea a dedicated tour guide, as well as making your own chocoalte at this fantastic experience. Find out all about the pioneering local families—such as Rowntree’s and Terry’s that helped transform York into the UK’s famous “Chocolate City”.
It’s one of the most popular York tourist attractions, that allows you to even try making and personalising you own chocolate creations.
10. Dine at one of the many fantastic York restaurants
One of York’s most popular is Star Inn The City, run by Michelin-star chef Andrew Pern, The Star Inn The City sits right on the river by Lendal Bridge, offering stunning waterside views for guests to enjoy. Serving up a menu of Yorkshire-inspired dishes, guests can dine on perfectly presented plates designed by Pern himself, expanding further on his acclaimed offering that can be found down the road at The Star Inn at Harome. The unique restaurant is perfect for a special date night or occasion, with plenty of seasonally changing dishes to try out. Other restaurants we’d recommend on your next visit include:
- Cresci – Cresci, 20 Piccadilly, York YO1 9NU
- Rustique – Rustique, 28 Castlegate, York YO1 9RP
- York Minster Refectory – York Minster Refectory, 2 Deangate, York, YO1 7JA
- SPARK:YORK – 17-21 Piccadilly, York YO1 9PB
- Roots – Roots, 68 Marygate, York YO30 7BH
11. Get together with friends at Thor’s Tipi
Now a York institution, Thor’s Tipi not only pops up at Christmas, but in the summer, too, offering varying experiences for visitors to enjoy. It currently has two locations one on Parliament Sqaure in the city centre and the other located at The Milner next to the train station. It is the best beer garden in York come summertime with drinks and food to match. Expect live music, a lively atmosphere and some fantastic street food offerings.
In the wintertime, expect cosy alpine-themed tipis with mulled wine, hot chocolates and beers, while, in the summer, guests can expect their Sól Ást offering, which consists of an open tipi, Ibiza vibes and plenty of summery cocktails. Give it a go the next time you visit York.
12. Enjoy a tipple in one (or two) of York’s oldest pubs
Ever felt like the floor has gone wonky after a few beers? In York, it’s not you, these old pubs have low ceilings with fantastic beams, uneven floors and a few friendly ghosts. Good job, they’ve got great ales to match the authentic pub vibe. York pubs are some of the best in the country with all the British pub trappings such as historic charm, and a relaxed atmosphere. They feature cosy, dimly lit snugs, open fires, and low ceilings, accompanied by traditional pub grub like steak and ale pies, fish and chips, and hearty cask ales.
Each pub has its own story to tell, so pick up a beer and listen. The historic city of York’s pubs are some of the oldest in the country, and we love every one of them. There are over 450 pubs in the York area, and around 400 of those sell real ale.
13. Wander around York’s Shambles Market
Shambles Market is a must-visit for anyone exploring York. Nestled in the heart of the city, the historic market is home to a fantastic selection of independent traders selling everything from fresh flowers and locally sourced produce to handmade crafts, gifts, and fashion accessories. Its bustling atmosphere and unique mix of stalls make it one of York’s most popular attractions.
The market is also renowned for its vibrant food scene. Home to York’s largest collection of independent traders, it boasts a dedicated food court packed with street food vendors serving flavours from around the world. Highlights include the slow-smoked meats, pulled pork, beef brisket, and shawarma at Shambles Kitchen, indulgent hot fruit crumbles and frozen custard from Crumbles Desserts, and the popular Smokehouse Burritos. From Italian and Asian cuisine to classic BBQ favourites, there’s something to satisfy every appetite.
14. Try locally brewed beers at Brew York
For beer lovers, Brew York is one of the city’s must-visit destinations. Located in the heart of York, the popular brewery boasts a Bavarian-style beer hall with around 40 taps pouring what is believed to be the largest selection of beers, lagers, and ciders in the region. Whether you’re a seasoned craft beer enthusiast or simply looking to try something new, there’s plenty to sample. The venue also features a taproom, the Brewer’s Yard, a riverside beer garden, and hosts a popular weekly Sunday quiz.
Brew York produces an impressive range of craft beers, from pale ales and IPAs to blondes, stouts, and sours. Among its best-known brews are the award-winning Coney, a hazy session IPA, and Loris, a low-alcohol hazy pale. Alongside the drinks, visitors can enjoy a fantastic food offering thanks to a partnership with cult favourite Yuzu Street Food, which serves a menu of Asian-inspired dishes from its open kitchen, making it the perfect spot for a relaxed afternoon or evening in the city.Brew York, Unit 5, Enterprise Complex, Walmgate, York, YO1 9TT.
15. Catch a show at one of York theatres
No trip to York is complete without catching a show at one of the city’s historic theatres. The standout is York Theatre Royal, one of Britain’s oldest working theatres, dating back to 1744. Set within beautiful Georgian architecture, the venue retains many of its original features and offers a stunning setting for everything from drama and dance to comedy and its famous annual pantomime.
York is also home to the Grand Opera House, the city’s main venue for touring West End productions, and York Barbican, which hosts major concerts, comedy acts, and large-scale shows. Whether you’re a theatre enthusiast or simply looking for an entertaining evening, York’s vibrant performing arts scene has something for everyone.
16. Jump into York’s Nordic past at the Jorvik Viking Centre
Be transported back in time at Jorvik Viking Centre, one of York’s top attractions. You can learn all about the history of Viking life in Yorkshire’s capital. They even have the world’s largest fossilised poo is a sight to behold. Jump on the six-seater time capsule and be transported back in time to the year 866AD fromwar-like Viking era through 100 years of Jorvik to 975AD.
It’s an engaging historical experience that’s fun for all ages. and world-famous. The immersive experience is built on the exact site of amajor Viking settlement. So, you can journey back ot the 10th century and really get a feel for what the people in that area and in that time will have seen, heard and even smelt in the realistic Viking village. Exert hosts are friendly and have a wealth of knoweldge to empart. And also they are dress like Vikings. Or are the real?
17. Test your nerves on one of York’s ghost tours
York’s ghost tours are a thrilling way to explore the city’s darker side and are perfect to enjoy at any time of year. With over 2,000 years of history, York has plenty of spooky stories to tell, from mysterious sightings and haunted buildings to tales of scandal, crime, death, and the supernatural.
Test your nerve as you wander through the city’s narrow medieval streets, hidden passageways, and atmospheric corners while your guide brings the past back to life with fascinating stories from across the centuries. As you travel through York’s history, you’ll discover the secrets that lurk behind some of its most famous landmarks.
Visitors can choose from a range of experiences, including a chilling journey aboard York’s famous Ghost Bus, or a late-night walking tour through the shadowy streets of the city. With theatrical guides, historic tales, and plenty of unexpected scares along the way, one thing is guaranteed – you’ll leave with a few ghost stories of your own. But remember, it’s all part of the fun.
18. Get steamy at The National Railway Museum
Voted TripAdvisor’s best free attraction, the National Railway Museum in York is a must-visit for train enthusiasts, families, and anyone fascinated by engineering and history. The museum allows visitors to step inside the world of iconic locomotives, including the legendary Mallard – the world’s fastest steam locomotive – and discover the stories behind some of the greatest trains ever built.
Explore the people, places, and engineering breakthroughs that shaped the railways, from pioneering designers and engineers to the passengers and workers who helped transform travel. With incredible collections of historic locomotives, royal carriages, and railway treasures, the museum offers a fascinating journey through more than 200 years of railway innovation.
The museum is completely free to visit and hosts a packed programme of events, exhibitions, and activities throughout the year, meaning there is always something new to discover. From special displays to family-friendly experiences, there are plenty of interactive things to get involved with, making it a brilliant day out for visitors of all ages.
Whether you’re stepping aboard a famous locomotive, exploring railway history, or keeping the kids entertained with hands-on activities, the National Railway Museum offers a unique experience that brings the magic of rail travel to life.
19. Enjoy a stroll through the Museum Gardens
Located in the heart of the city, York Museum Gardens are a beautiful botanical haven and the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of York’s streets. Open throughout the year, the gardens offer something in every season, although they are especially popular during the warmer months when visitors can relax, enjoy the sunshine, and take in the peaceful surroundings.
Spread across 10 acres, the gardens are home to a fascinating collection of plants, wildlife, and historic features. Visitors can wander through colourful borders, discover hidden corners, and enjoy the tranquil setting alongside the River Ouse.
One of the highlights is the stunning medieval ruins of St Mary’s Abbey, which sit among the trees, shrubs, and perennial planting. Once one of the richest and most powerful abbeys in medieval England, the atmospheric remains provide a glimpse into York’s past and create a unique backdrop within the gardens.
Combining nature, history, and beautiful scenery, York Museum Gardens are a must-visit spot whether you’re looking for a quiet walk, a picnic location, or a peaceful place to enjoy one of the city’s most picturesque settings.
Read more: 7 Of The Best Pubs In York City Centre You Need To Try
[Featured image: Unsplash]
