Part of our England guide.
York’s core sights are York Minster, the City Walls, The Shambles, Clifford’s Tower, JORVIK Viking Centre, and the National Railway Museum. This guide gathers seven of our York pages into one place, covering afternoon tea, pubs, day trips, and weekend plans.
Related travel guides: Know Travel Guide, Top 15 Things To Do In London, and Bath Travel Guide.
Afternoon Tea On The Orient Express Carriage In York
An Orient Express Carriage in York offers an afternoon tea experience that transports you back to a bygone era. Step aboard a beautifully restored vintage carriage, with polished wood, sumptuous upholstery, and elegant décor. As you settle into your seat, you can feel a sense of nostalgia for the golden age of train travel, though no specific menu, price, or booking details are documented in our sources.
15 Fun Things To Do In York, England
York, known as the "City of Vikings," offers an array of activities for travellers of all ages. From exploring medieval castles to wandering along ancient city walls, York is a treasure trove of attractions. The following 15 suggestions cover the city’s highlights and city breaks in England, with something for every interest.
- York Minster – the largest Gothic cathedral in Northern Europe.
- City Walls – walk the full circuit for panoramic views.
- The Shambles – a medieval street lined with overhanging timber-framed buildings.
- Clifford’s Tower – climb to the top for a 360-degree view.
- JORVIK Viking Centre – an immersive recreation of Viking-age York.
- National Railway Museum – home to iconic locomotives and royal carriages.
- Additional options include river cruises, ghost tours, and museums.
15 Best Pubs In York, England
York’s pub culture spans traditional taverns dating back centuries and modern craft beer destinations. The 15 best pubs in York include historic inns with open fires, riverside alehouses, and contemporary bars serving local brews. Each pub has its own character, from low-beamed medieval rooms to bustling beer gardens.
Taking A Step Back Into The Past In York, England
York’s history dates back over 2,000 years, with Roman, Viking, and medieval influences visible throughout. Wander narrow alleys and stroll along ancient walls to see where knights, Vikings, and Victorian gentry once roamed. The city’s museums and exhibitions bring these periods to life. For a deeper dive, consider a guided walking tour or a visit to a period-accurate attraction like JORVIK Viking Centre.
12 Best Things To Do In York, England
York is one of the best places to explore England’s history, especially the Roman, Viking, mediaeval and Victorian periods. Old buildings, museums, tours and exhibitions invite you to vivid experiences of the past. Take a romantic river cruise or a spooky bus tour, roam the old streets, or journey back in time. Here are the twelve most exciting attractions to visit with your children or on your own, in sunny weather or in rain.
View The City From Clifford Tower
If the weather is good, start your visit of York by ascending to Clifford Tower. From the top, you get a clear view over the city’s rooftops and the surrounding countryside. The tower is one of the few remaining parts of York Castle, and its elevated position makes it a natural first stop.
The 16 Best Day Trips From York
For those visiting or living in the historic city of York, there are countless opportunities to explore the surrounding areas and discover hidden gems in England just a short distance away. From charming coastal towns to majestic national parks, there is something for everyone in this diverse region.
- Coastal towns such as Whitby and Scarborough – both within about an hour by train.
- North York Moors National Park – ideal for hiking and scenic drives.
- Harrogate and Knaresborough – known for their gardens and riverside walks.
- Castle Howard – a grand stately home with extensive grounds.
- Fountains Abbey – a ruined Cistercian monastery, now a World Heritage Site.
What To Do On A Weekend In York
York’s narrow cobblestone streets, awe-inspiring architecture, and a unique mix of medieval and modern attractions offer something for every visitor. Start with the ancient walls that surround the city, then move to the Shambles for a sense of medieval life. In the afternoon, visit York Minster and consider a guided tour of its chapter house and tower. For dinner, choose from a range of pubs and restaurants within the city walls. On the second day, explore JORVIK Viking Centre or the National Railway Museum, then take a riverside walk or a boat trip. End your weekend with a visit to Clifford’s Tower for a final view over the city.
For practical planning, note that York’s railway station is a short walk from the city centre, and most attractions are within walking distance of each other. If you are short on time, prioritise the Minster, the Shambles, and the City Walls – these three capture the essence of York’s history and charm. For those wondering how long do you need for a layover, a half-day is enough to see the central sights, though a full day allows for a more relaxed pace.
