Find the best things to do in York and plan a short break to the city, best known for its deep history and iconic city walls. Look up and be awestruck by the Heart of Yorkshire, set in the Gothic architecture of York Minster; this iconic stained glass window should be a key part of any romantic short break in the city. Make sure to visit the cobbled streets and overhanging buildings that frame York Shambles, one of England's most iconic shopping destinations. Take a cruise down the River Ouse and get a new perspective on the city, or visit the family-friendly National Railway Museum to learn all about England's rail history. Whether you're visiting York with the whole family or taking a couple's retreat, you're bound to find plenty of fun and unique things to do.
Places to visit in York
Best things to do in York
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Explore York's bizarrely named streets, paranormal past and Viking heritage on a break to this North Yorkshire city.
Kiss under the Heart of Yorkshire window at the Minster
According to legend, all loved up couples that kiss under the 'Heart of Yorkshire' window, will stay together forever.
Location: York, North Yorkshire
Go shopping medieval-style along The Shambles
Travel back in time along one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval shopping streets, with cheerful cafés and quirky shops in timber-framed buildings.
Location: York, North Yorkshire
March along England's longest medieval city walls
Enjoy a bird's-eye view of the city and stroll along its 13th century defensive walls, passing historic landmarks, gatehouses and gardens.
Location: York, North Yorkshire
Rainy Day Activities: Step back in time at York Castle Museum
Travel back in time on a rainy day at this trend-setting museum, which transports visitors back through 300 years of history.
Location: York, North Yorkshire
Go ghost hunting in ‘Europe's most haunted city’
York claims to be the world’s first city to run ghost walks – you’ll soon see why, with tales of murder, mayhem and gore at every corner.
Location: York, North Yorkshire
Visit the largest Viking Festival in Europe
Immerse yourself in the gruesome world of the Vikings as the city of York celebrates its Norse past.
Location: York, North Yorkshire
Hunt for ancient treasures in The Yorkshire Museum
This grandiose Georgian museum is filled with curiosities from an eye-popping Viking treasure hoard to dinosaur fossils and a working observatory.
Location: York, North Yorkshire