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Things to do in York include visiting historical landmarks, museums, and public gardens spread across the compact city. York is located in North Yorkshire, England, and is known for its Roman roots and well-preserved medieval architecture. The city dates back to AD 71 and was once a major hub during the Viking period under Jorvik. Visitors will find numerous points of interest within walking distance, making it easy to plan a short itinerary. York offers a combination of historical sites, cultural experiences, and educational attractions suitable for all age groups.
Top 9 Things To Do In York
Here is the complete list covering key things to do in York, offering history, culture and family-friendly experiences throughout the year:
1. Spend A Day At York Racecourse
Photo: habiloid / Wikimedia Commons
For those curious about what to do in York, York Racecourse offers a venue that balances sport and social gatherings. It’s home to prestigious racing events like the Ebor Festival, attracting seasoned followers and newcomers. The site provides viewing stands, hospitality suites, and spaces suitable for group outings or family picnics. Many attend not only for the racing but also for musical performances and food stalls. The location adds depth to a day in York with its mix of culture, tradition, and community appeal.
Major Attractions: Horse racing events, music nights, hospitality pavilions
Timings: Varies by event
Location: Knavesmire Road, York YO23 1EX
2. Explore York’s Historic City Walls On Foot
Photo: Poliphilo / Wikimedia Commons
Walking York’s city walls offers a chance to follow the lines of past city defenses. With several towers and gatehouses to explore, the route gives historical insight along with a new way to view the city. Informative boards placed along the route share details of Roman and medieval periods. The walk is self-paced, and sections can be accessed independently depending on time and interest. This circular path brings together history and structure, creating a deeper understanding of how the city grew and was once protected.
Major Attractions: Gatehouses, tower views, Roman foundations
Timings: 8 AM – dusk
3. Enjoy The Scenery At York Museum Gardens
Photo: Mike Peel / Wikimedia Commons
Those searching for things to see in York should visit the York Museum Gardens, combining horticulture and medieval remains. Spread along the River Ouse, the area includes ruins of St Mary’s Abbey, lending context to York’s religious history. Garden paths connect flower beds, lawn areas, and open seating under mature trees. With bird sightings and plant displays throughout the year, the gardens appeal to those interested in natural spaces tied to heritage. It’s a preferred location for calm exploration within a short walk of key city attractions.
Major Attractions: St Mary’s Abbey ruins, botanical collections, observatory
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
Location: Museum Street, York YO1 7FR
4. Watch Trains And Exhibits At The National Railway Museum
Photo: Richard Sutcliffe / Wikimedia Commons
The National Railway Museum introduces visitors to Britain’s transportation development. This is through a massive collection of trains and related artifacts. Situated close to York Station, this museum allows inspection of record-breaking locomotives like the Mallard and carriages once used by royalty. Display areas highlight technical advances and changes in travel habits. There are demonstrations and interactive areas for children, alongside more detailed archives for those researching engineering. As an accessible, no-cost activity, it’s well suited for mixed-age groups or visitors exploring local industry and design evolution.
Major Attractions: Historic locomotives, model railway, live engineering
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
Location: Leeman Road, York YO26 4XJ
5. Experience The Past At York Castle Museum
Photo: Jitka Erbenová (cheva) / Wikimedia Commons
York Castle Museum provides hands-on engagement with social history through room sets, themed displays, and interactive exhibitions. Visitors enter spaces that re-create life in different periods, from Victorian shopping streets to 1960s home life. A visit includes the original castle prison building, adding depth to York’s justice history. Stories told through objects and settings help connect everyday life from past generations. The layout supports individual discovery or guided learning. This makes the museum relevant for school trips, adult learners, or anyone exploring how people lived through time.
Major Attractions: Kirkgate Victorian Street, Toy Stories Gallery, 1960s Displays
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
Location: Tower Street, York YO1 9RY
6. Hike Up To Clifford’s Tower For A View
Photo: Tim Green / Wikimedia Commons
Clifford’s Tower draws interest for its long-standing place in York’s military past. It stands on a hilltop reached by a staircase and features structured walkways for those climbing to the top. Informational panels cover the tower’s past, including its use during the Norman Conquest. From the top, the site allows observation across city rooftops and significant buildings. Visitors with an interest in early defense strategies or English royal history will find the structure engaging. The climb is also popular among photographers aiming to capture wide city angles.
Major Attractions: Rooftop viewing deck, Norman heritage, exhibition panels
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM
Location: Tower Street, York YO1 9SA
7. Visit The York Cold War Bunker
Photo: Mike Peel / Wikimedia Commons
The York Cold War Bunker offers a contained view into national defense planning during periods of heightened global tension. Preserved exactly as it was during its operation, the bunker’s rooms include real equipment and documents. Guided tours provide detail on how the Royal Observer Corps tracked possible nuclear activity. Each visit runs in small groups, allowing space to reflect and ask questions. It’s an unusual historical site that appeals to those curious about post-war planning and the systems in place to monitor civilian safety during unstable times.
Major Attractions: Operation rooms, original monitoring equipment, guided tour
Timings: Tour-based access; check schedule
Location: Monument Close, York YO24 4HT
8. Take A Boat Ride Along The River Ouse
Photo: Peter K Burian / Wikimedia Commons
Among the best things to do in York, river cruises along the Ouse offer a steady-paced way to observe the city’s structure from the water. Tours run during both day and evening hours, with commentary sharing historical background on buildings and bridges passed along the way. Operators provide varied options, including drinks and meal packages. The cruise suits visitors who want a less structured outing while still learning about local development. It also helps connect areas of York not easily linked by foot, creating a fuller city experience.
Major Attractions: Riverbank views, onboard commentary, dining options
Timings: 10:30 AM – 8:30 PM (varies by provider)
Location: King’s Staith Landing or Lendal Bridge Landing
9. Wander Through The Narrow Lanes Of The Shambles
Photo: Peter K Burian / Wikimedia Commons
The Shambles offers a close-up view of York’s trade history through its preserved medieval layout and current use. Narrow walkways lead visitors past overhanging buildings that once housed meat vendors. Today, the same buildings have been repurposed into shops selling local goods, food items, and themed merchandise. The Shambles remains a popular stop for photography due to its preserved structure and charming detail. Seasonal stalls and decorations add variety across the year. Visitors interested in York’s commercial roots and period architecture will find this street especially engaging.
Major Attractions: Historic buildings, themed shops, local stalls
Timings: Most shops open from 9:30 AM – 6 PM
Location: The Shambles, York YO1
Things to do in York include walking ancient walls, touring museums, and exploring cultural heritage in a compact setting. The city’s preserved structures reflect centuries of transformation, offering an immersive way to understand England’s past. From Roman ruins to medieval lanes, York presents opportunities to connect with various time periods. Museums like the JORVIK Viking Centre add depth to its appeal, while local events provide additional value throughout the year. Plan with TripXL to align each activity with your personal preferences and schedule.
Cover Photo: andy / Wikimedia Commons
