City Guide: York
York is a charming and compact city that offers a wealth of hidden treasures and interesting sights to explore by foot, making it the perfect destination for a quick getaway at any time of year.
Stay
For those seeking a delightful blend of city and countryside, the Historic House Hotel Middlethorpe Hall, a National Trust property, offers an award-winning accommodation option. Nestled amidst 20 acres of lush gardens and parkland, guests can enjoy leisurely strolls through the beautifully restored landscape and savor light refreshments and beverages on the terrace while admiring the splendid views of the South lawn.
Dine
Food enthusiasts can relish the delectable fare at Roots York, a Michelin-starred restaurant under the supervision of renowned two Michelin-starred chef Tommy Banks. Situated near the River Ouse in the historic city of York, Roots York is within easy reach of the train station, less than two hours away from London. With a contemporary, spacious, and bright ambiance, the restaurant offers an innovative and creative tasting menu that showcases the seasonal produce foraged or harvested from the farm and garden in Oldstead, served throughout the year.
Do
Embark on an unforgettable journey along the ‘York City Walls.’ These well-preserved medieval walls, which stretch for 3.4 kilometers, offer an enchanting walking experience with plenty of interesting sights along the way. These include the four main bars, two lesser bars, the postern, the Roman Multangular Tower, and many more intriguing details like arrow slits, musket loops, sculptures, and masons' marks. Marvel at the breathtaking cityscape views of York, and admire the diverse and stunning architecture, including the railway stations, York Art Gallery, King's Manor, Holgate's windmill, and the iconic Terry's factory. Make sure to visit the magnificent York Minster, a stunning cathedral renowned for its breathtaking stained glass and intricate stonework.
Visit
Delve into the history of York's famous chocolate-making legacy at York's Chocolate Story. Discover how famous chocolate brands like Rowntree, Terry's, and Cravens originated from York and learn about their delicious and iconic creations, such as the Kit-Kat, Chocolate Orange, French Almonds, and Mary-Ann Toffees. Finally, visit the iconic Shambles area, which has been a bustling trade center since Roman times and continues to offer a fantastic retail therapy experience. Explore a vast array of designer and independent shops that offer everything from heraldic art, antiques, and unusual books to designer clothing and souvenirs, all conveniently situated amidst world-class attractions and pedestrianized streets.
Plan your visit: visityork.org