York Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
General Planning & Logistics
Is York worth visiting?
Answer: Yes, overwhelmingly so. It’s consistently praised for its history, beauty, and compact, walkable nature.
How many days do I need in York?
Answer: 2-3 days is the most common recommendation to see the main sights without rushing. A single day is possible but will be very busy.
Is York a good day trip from London?
Answer: Yes, it’s a popular and manageable day trip by train. The journey is around two hours.
Is York walkable?
Answer: Absolutely. The city center is very compact, and most major attractions are within walking distance of each other.
Is it better to visit York or Bath?
Answer: This is a frequent debate. York is often described as having a more “Viking/medieval” feel, while Bath is more “Roman/Georgian.” Both are excellent and historic cities.
Do I need a car in York?
Answer: No, a car is generally considered a hindrance in the city center due to narrow streets, pedestrian zones, and limited/expensive parking. The city is best explored on foot.
What’s the best time of year to visit?
Answer: Spring and autumn are popular for pleasant weather and fewer crowds than the peak summer months. The Christmas market is also a major draw.
How do I get from the train station to the city center?
Answer: The city center is a very short and easy walk from the York railway station.
What are the opening times for attractions?
Answer: They vary, and it’s always best to check the official websites of individual attractions like the Minster or the Jorvik Centre before you go.
Is it a good place for a family trip?
Answer: Yes, many attractions, like the York Dungeon and the Jorvik Viking Centre, are very popular with children.
Top Attractions & Things to Do
What is the most popular thing to do in York?
Answer: Visiting York Minster, walking The Shambles, and walking the city walls are the top three must-dos.
Is York Minster worth the entrance fee?
Answer: Yes, most visitors say it is. The sheer scale and stunning stained-glass windows are impressive, and the ticket often includes climbing the central tower.
Is The Jorvik Viking Centre worth it?
Answer: A popular and often-debated attraction. Many find the ride through Viking-era York fascinating and informative, while others feel it’s a bit of a tourist trap.
What are the best free things to do?
Answer: Walking the city walls, exploring The Shambles and other historic streets, strolling through Museum Gardens, and visiting the National Railway Museum.
How long does it take to walk the city walls?
Answer: The full walk is about 3.4 kilometers (2 miles) and takes approximately 2 hours at a leisurely pace.
What is The Shambles?
Answer: A narrow, medieval street with overhanging timber-framed buildings. It’s famous for being a visual inspiration for Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter series.
What’s the deal with all the Harry Potter shops?
Answer: The resemblance of The Shambles to Diagon Alley has led to a proliferation of wizarding-themed shops, capitalizing on the fandom.
Is the York Dungeon worth it?
Answer: Similar to the Jorvik Centre, it’s a fun, theatrical experience but may not appeal to those looking for a purely historical experience. Great for a rainy day.
What is Clifford’s Tower?
Answer: The last remaining part of York Castle. It offers panoramic views of the city.
Is the National Railway Museum worth visiting?
Answer: Yes, it is a world-class museum and it’s free to enter. Highly recommended for all ages.
What is the best way to see the city on a budget?
Answer: Focus on the many free activities: walking the walls, exploring the streets, and visiting the Railway Museum.
What other museums are there?
Answer: York Castle Museum, Yorkshire Museum, and York Art Gallery are all highly regarded.
Are there any good ghost walks?
Answer: York has a long history of ghost stories, and there are several popular ghost walks that run in the evening. They’re a fun and entertaining way to learn about the city’s darker side.
Can I visit the Cold War Bunker?
Answer: Yes, it is a unique English Heritage site located just outside the city center.
What’s the best way to get a good photo of The Shambles?
Answer: Go early in the morning before the crowds arrive.
Food & Drink
What is the most famous place for afternoon tea?
Answer: Betty’s Tea Room is the most famous, but it often has very long queues. Many locals recommend smaller, independent cafes for a similar, less crowded experience.
What are some good alternatives to Betty’s?
Answer: Recommendations often include Brew & Brownie, The Earl Grey Tea Rooms, and The Rattle Owl.
What kind of food is York famous for?
Answer: While there’s no single “York” dish, Yorkshire is known for Yorkshire puddings, Yorkshire curd tart, and local ales.
What are the best pubs in York?
Answer: The city has many historic pubs. The Kings Arms and Ye Olde Starre Inne are frequently mentioned.
Where can I find a traditional Sunday roast?
Answer: Many pubs and restaurants offer Sunday roasts. The Eagle and Child or The Lamb & Lion Inn are good places to start.
What are the best breakfast spots?
Answer: Brew & Brownie, The Pig & Pastry, and Partisan are popular choices.
Any good vegetarian/vegan restaurants?
Answer: Yes, many places cater to these diets. Source, The Orchid Vegan Restaurant, and The Dough Eyed Pizza Co. are often recommended.
Where can I get good fish and chips?
Answer: Drakes Fisheries, The Sea Catcher, and The Old Ebor T-Room get good reviews.
Are there any food markets?
Answer: Shambles Market is a permanent market with various food stalls.
Where should I eat near the Minster?
Answer: You’ll find many cafes and pubs on the streets surrounding the Minster, such as Petergate and Stonegate.
Shopping & Souvenirs
What’s the best place to go shopping?
Answer: The city center has a mix of high-street stores and independent shops. The Shambles and Stonegate are best for unique, independent retailers.
What are some good souvenirs to buy?
Answer: Items related to the city’s Viking or Roman history, chocolate from the York Cocoa Works, and anything with a Yorkshire rose on it.
Are there any good bookshops?
Answer: Yes, York has several independent bookshops, including Fossgate Books and The Minster Gate Bookshop.
Day Trips from York
What are some good day trips from York?
Answer: Popular options include the Yorkshire Dales, North York Moors, and seaside towns like Whitby and Scarborough.
How do I get to Whitby from York?
Answer: You can take a train, but many people recommend the scenic bus ride over the moors.
Is Castle Howard worth a visit?
Answer: Yes, it’s a magnificent stately home and grounds, easily accessible by bus from York.
Can I visit the Yorkshire Dales without a car?
Answer: It’s more difficult but possible. There are bus tours and a few bus routes to villages, but a car offers more flexibility.
Is Leeds a good day trip?
Answer: Yes, it’s a short train ride away and offers a different vibe with its modern shopping and nightlife.
Accommodation
Where is the best area to stay?
Answer: Staying within the city walls is ideal for walkability. The area around the Minster is beautiful but can be noisy.
Are there any good B&Bs?
Answer: York is full of guesthouses and B&Bs, often a more personal experience than a hotel.
Is it better to stay in a hotel or an Airbnb?
Answer: This depends on personal preference. Hotels offer services, while an Airbnb can provide a more “local” feel.
Is it safe to stay outside the city walls?
Answer: Yes, many areas just outside the walls, like Bootham or Bishopthorpe Road, are lovely and still very walkable.
Practical Tips
What’s the best way to get around the city?
Answer: On foot.
How do I get to York from Manchester/Liverpool?
Answer: All are well-connected by train.
Is there a hop-on-hop-off bus tour?
Answer: Yes, there are sightseeing bus tours.
Is the York Pass worth it?
Answer: This depends on how many attractions you plan to visit and the length of your stay. Do the math beforehand.
Are the cobbled streets a problem for mobility issues?
Answer: The city center has many uneven, cobbled streets, which can be a challenge for those with mobility issues.
What is the typical weather like?
Answer: Variable. Pack layers and a waterproof jacket, regardless of the season.
What’s the local currency?
Answer: British Pounds (£).
Is it a good place for a solo trip?
Answer: Yes, it’s a safe and friendly city, and its compact nature makes it easy to explore alone.
What’s the pub etiquette?
Answer: Order at the bar. Tipping is not expected but appreciated for good service.
Can I use my credit card everywhere?
Answer: Most places accept card payments, but it’s always good to have some cash for smaller purchases or independent stalls.
Are there public restrooms available?
Answer: Yes, there are public toilets, and many pubs and cafes will let you use their facilities.
Deeper Dives & Niche Interests
Is the city walls walk suitable for children?
Answer: Yes, but be aware there are some steep steps and no railings in some places.
What are some good places to see for Roman history?
Answer: The Yorkshire Museum has a great collection, and you can see Roman remains in the Museum Gardens and near the Minster.
Where can I see Viking history besides Jorvik?
Answer: The Jorvik DIG attraction and the Yorkshire Museum are good alternatives.
Is there a good food tour?
Answer: Yes, several companies offer guided food tours of the city.
What’s the best time to see the Minster lit up at night?
Answer: On a clear evening, it is beautifully lit. Walk around the perimeter after sunset.
Are there any good spots for photography?
Answer: The Shambles, the city walls, and the bridge over the River Ouse are all classic spots.
Are there any good parks for a picnic?
Answer: Museum Gardens is a popular choice, and Rowntree Park is also beautiful.
What’s a good place for a quiet pint?
Answer: Head a little off the main tourist paths. Pubs in the Bishy Road area are often less crowded.
Where can I find a good gin bar?
Answer: Evil Eye Lounge is famous for its cocktails.
What are some good places for a romantic dinner?
Answer: The Star Inn The City, The Rattle Owl, or Skosh.
Any recommendations for live music?
Answer: The Crescent is a popular venue, and many pubs have live music nights.
What is the best time to visit for Christmas?
Answer: The St. Nicholas Fair usually runs from mid-November to Christmas Eve. It’s a magical time but very busy.
Are there any good antique shops?
Answer: Yes, there are several antique shops and centers, especially along Stonegate.
What’s the best way to get from York to Edinburgh?
Answer: The train is the best and fastest way.
Where can I learn about the city’s railway history?
Answer: The National Railway Museum is the place to go.
Is the York Races a good event to attend?
Answer: Yes, it’s a major social event in the city and can be a lot of fun.
What is the best way to see the city from the river?
Answer: There are river cruises on the River Ouse.
Off the Beaten Path
What are some hidden gems in York?
Answer: The Treasurer’s House, Barley Hall, and the Merchant Adventurers’ Hall are often mentioned.
Where can I find some cool street art?
Answer: Look around the Fossgate and Walmgate areas.
What’s a cool non-touristy pub?
Answer: Locals often recommend The Ackhorne or The Rook & Gaskill.
Are there any good lesser-known museums?
Answer: The Fairfax House, a beautiful Georgian town house, is a good choice.
Where can I find a peaceful walk away from the crowds?
Answer: The riverside walk away from the city center is much quieter.
Specific Interests
Where can I find the best ice cream?
Answer: LICC (Luxury Ice Cream Company) and Trinacria are popular options.
Is York a good place to visit for a stag/hen party?
Answer: Yes, it’s very popular for this with its many pubs and nightlife options.
Are there any good places for bird watching?
Answer: The River Ouse is a good spot, and the Museum Gardens also attract various bird species.
What are some good spots for a photoshoot?
Answer: The Minster, The Shambles, and the city walls.
Where can I see the best views of the city?
Answer: From the top of York Minster’s central tower or Clifford’s Tower.
Is York a good base for a walking holiday?
Answer: Yes, you can easily access the Yorkshire Dales and North York Moors from York.
What’s the story behind the cat statues?
Answer: There are many small cat statues on the buildings. They were traditionally placed to ward off evil spirits and are now a fun scavenger hunt for visitors.
Can I visit the university?
Answer: The University of York campus is a short bus ride from the city center and has beautiful grounds.
What is York’s connection to Guy Fawkes?
Answer: Guy Fawkes was born and educated in York, and his birthplace is still a prominent spot.
Is there a good cinema?
Answer: Yes, City Screen is a popular independent cinema on the riverside.
What are the best bakeries in York?
Answer: Dough, FortyFive Vinyl Cafe, and Bluebird Bakery are often mentioned.
Are there any good markets for antiques or crafts?
Answer: Shambles Market and the occasional artisan markets in the city are good for crafts.
How do I find a good bus route?
Answer: Use Google Maps or the First Bus app, which is a common recommendation on forums.
What’s the best way to get to the airport (Manchester/Leeds)?
Answer: The train is the best option for Manchester Airport. Leeds Bradford Airport is accessible by a bus service from the city center.
Are there any good guided walking tours?
Answer: Yes, there are many official and independent walking tours, including history tours, food tours, and ghost walks.
Is it a good place to visit in the winter?
Answer: Yes, the city is very atmospheric in the winter, especially during the Christmas season.
What’s the nightlife like?
Answer: York has a vibrant nightlife with a good mix of historic pubs, cocktail bars, and clubs.
What are some good places to listen to traditional English music?
Answer: Many pubs will have live folk music nights. Ask a local or check a pub’s schedule.
Is York more expensive than other UK cities?
Answer: It’s generally considered more affordable than London but can be more expensive than some other northern cities like Leeds.
What’s the one thing I shouldn’t miss?
Answer: The consensus is to at least walk the city walls and visit The Shambles.