The lovely walled city of York is probably one of my favourite cities in the UK. It is bursting with history, charming little streets and tea shops galore! There is never a shortage of things to do in York and this handy guide has you covered to plan your perfect getaway.
Before we get started – The Visit York Pass
I am not usually an advocate of city passes but I think there are some places where it is well worth investing in. York is one of those. If you are planning to visit a few of the city’s attractions, then you need to get this. I was surprised at how many places accepted the card and we ended up doing and seeing way more than we would have done otherwise. The Visit York Pass provides entrance to more than thirty different attractions. You can order the pass online in advance, or alternatively pick one up from the York Visitor Information Centre.
Things to Do in York | Your Updated Guide 2025
Walk the city walls
You just cannot visit York without walking a stretch (or all) of the historic town walls. The complete circuit around the city centre is estimated to take 2 hours in total. This is definitely worth it – it offers great views and a different perspective of the city. If you don’t fancy walking the entire route, I would definitely recommend visiting the four gatehouses (known as ‘bars’) instead. These stand (mostly) intact at each corner of the city and are still worth seeing.
Visit the Minster
Another absolute must-see is northern Europe’s largest gothic cathedral. Whilst you can also climb the central tower – which has the best view in York – you can opt to just explore the interior. You will be really taken aback with how impressive it really is.
If you are interested in climbing the tower, it is worth bearing in mind that the trips occur only at set times during the day. At the time of writing, tickets that include the tower are £24.00 for an adult and £8.00 for a child. Please note that this can only be booked on the day of your trip. It is also worth noting that the Visit York Pass covers this cost.
Climb Clifford’s Tower
Although York’s city walls are mostly intact, unfortunately the same cannot be said about its castle. Clifford’s Tower is the largest remaining part of York castle and is perched atop a hill offering yet more great views of the city. This is definitely a good attraction for those interested in history!
Adults cost £8.50, whereas children are £4.50. You can also use your English Heritage membership or a Visit York Pass.
Stroll the Shambles
York’s Shambles are a highlight of the city. The charming street of lopsided buildings, home to a handful of quaint and traditional tea rooms, along with pubs and boutiques. It is the city’s most famous street. You cannot avoid the selfie sticks and tour group trains down this street but it is totally worth seeing for yourself!
York’s Chocolate Story
York is the home of chocolate in the UK, and you need to visit a factory whilst you are here. Right in the heart of the city is the York Chocolate Story which takes you on a tour of York’s sweet history. You are introduced to the city’s chocolate pioneers, including the revered Joseph Rowntree and Joseph Terry. Later in the tour you enjoy a masterclass in the process of making chocolate. Saving the best for last, you get to make your very-own chocolate lollipop, sprinkles and all!
This experience is covered in the Visit York City Pass, or costs £18.50 per adult.
Afternoon Tea at Betty’s
Betty’s is York’s most famous tea house and was at the top of my ‘must-visit’ list. The tea house is so popular that there is almost always a queue of people outside its doors. Trust me, even a wait is worth it!
Relax in the Museum Gardens
he ten-acre botanical gardens which surround the Yorkshire Musuem are surprisingly easy to miss, which would be a great shame. The gardens provide a wonderful place to walk around, relax and think in peace. They also serve as a romantic backdrop to the ruins of St Mart’s Abbey, first built in 1088 and although it is hard to believe today looking as it does, was among the richest and most powerful Benedictine monasteries in England.
Time Travel at the Jorvik Viking Centre
Vikings are a central part of York’s history. The city’s very name derives from the old norse Jorvik. These Scandinavian settlers are largely misunderstood and the award-winning Jorvik Viking Centre is there to dispel all those myths. Definitely worth a visit – I was thoroughly impressed and came away much more knowledgeable!
Final Thoughts | Things to do in York
So, if you’re looking for a city break in the UK, York is a definitely somewhere worth considering and a great choice. There is plenty to keep you occupied with lots to see and do there!
Is York on your bucket list yet? Have you been there before? I’d love to hear from you in the comments below!
