Guide to the historic and beautiful city of York

The beautiful and historic city of York is England’s most visited city outside London in the stunning county of Yorkshire, by the River Ouse.

The history of York is said to be the history of England. It is an ancient city with Roman walls and Viking remains, and the largest Gothic cathedral in Northern Europe towers over the Medieval streets.

A major tourist destination, York hosts events and festivals all year round, showcasing different types of music, theatre, culture, food and drink. 

You will never be short of something to do in this beautiful city.

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Activities

In the local area

Web Adventure
A popular outdoor activity centre offering high ropes, zip lines, climbing walls and woodland challenges. Great for families, groups and team-building days, with courses suitable for a range of ages and confidence levels.
🔗 www.webadventurepark.co.uk

Hollywood Bowl York
A lively, family-friendly entertainment venue at Clifton Moor offering ten-pin bowling, an indoor mini golf course, and a large amusement arcade. There’s also a diner-style food and drinks menu, making it an easy place to spend a few hours, whether you’re visiting with children, teenagers, or a group of adults. Its location makes it ideal to combine with shopping or other nearby leisure activities.
🔗 www.hollywoodbowl.co.uk/york

Cineworld
A large multiplex cinema showing the latest blockbuster releases, with comfortable seating and regular screenings throughout the day and evening.
🔗 www.cineworld.co.uk

Vue Cinemas
Another great cinema option offering competitively priced tickets and a wide selection of new releases, including family-friendly showings.
🔗 www.myvue.com

Laser Tag & Ten Pin Bowling – Clifton Moor Retail Park
Clifton Moor is home to several indoor leisure activities including laser tag arenas and ten-pin bowling, making it a convenient all-weather option for families and groups.
🔗 www.tenpin.co.uk

Teamworks Karting
‍An indoor karting venue offering high-speed fun for adults and older children, with timed sessions and competitive race formats.
🔗 www.teamworkskarting.com

Shopping at Vanguard & Monks Cross
Large retail parks on the outskirts of York featuring major high-street brands, restaurants and free parking – perfect for hassle-free shopping.
🔗 www.vangardeshopping.co.uk
🔗 monkscrossshopping.com

York Designer Outlet
A designer outlet offering discounted fashion, lifestyle and home brands, alongside cafés and family-friendly facilities.
🔗 www.mcarthurglen.com

In the city centre

York Minster
One of the largest and most impressive Gothic cathedrals in Europe, famous for its stunning stained glass windows and panoramic views from the tower.
🔗 www.yorkminster.org

Clifford’s Tower
The remains of a Norman castle offering fantastic views over York and insight into the city’s medieval history.
🔗 www.english-heritage.org.uk

National Railway Museum
A world-class museum with iconic locomotives, including the Flying Scotsman. Free entry and suitable for all ages.
🔗 www.railwaymuseum.org.uk

York Dungeon
A theatrical attraction bringing York’s darker history to life through live actors, special effects and immersive storytelling.
🔗 www.thedungeons.com/york

Jorvik Viking Centre
An interactive ride-through experience recreating Viking-age York, based on archaeological discoveries from the city.
🔗 www.jorvikvikingcentre.co.uk

York’s Chocolate Story
Discover York’s rich chocolate-making heritage, including its links to famous brands like Rowntree and Terry’s.
🔗 www.yorkschocolatestory.com

The Shambles
A picturesque medieval shopping street lined with independent boutiques, sweet shops and souvenir stores.
🔗 visityork.org

York Food & Drink Festival
A seasonal festival celebrating local producers, street food and live entertainment, typically held in September.
🔗 www.yorkfoodfestival.com

St Nicholas Christmas Fair
York’s festive Christmas market, featuring wooden chalets, seasonal treats and gift stalls throughout the city centre.
🔗 visityork.org/christmas

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Restaurants

All the restaurants below have been tried and tested, and come highly recommended.

Italian

Delrio’s
A long-standing Italian favourite offering generous portions and classic dishes in a cosy setting.
🔗 www.delriosrestaurant.com

Lucia’s Wine Bar & Grill
Stylish dining with an Italian-inspired menu, great cocktails and a lively atmosphere.
🔗 www.luciawinebar.co.uk/york

Il Paradiso del Cibo
‍A destination restaurant known for authentic Italian cooking and a warm, welcoming feel.
🔗 www.paradisodelcibo.uk

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Steak

El Gaucho
‍Premium steaks cooked to perfection, with a focus on quality cuts and bold flavours.
🔗 www.elgauchoyork.co.uk

Cut & Craft
A modern steak and seafood restaurant set in a beautiful historic building.
🔗 www.thecutandcraft.co.uk/york

The Whippet Inn
‍A refined yet relaxed steakhouse with a strong reputation for quality British beef.
🔗 www.thewhippetinn.co.uk

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Fine Dining

Roots
‍Michelin-starred dining focusing on seasonal, locally sourced tasting menus.
🔗 www.rootsyork.com

Star Inn The City
‍Riverside fine dining showcasing modern British cuisine.
🔗 www.starinnthecity.co.uk

Skosh
‍Innovative small plates with global influences, ideal for adventurous diners.
🔗 www.skoshyork.co.uk

Melton’s
‍Elegant fine dining with a relaxed atmosphere and seasonal menus.
🔗 meltonsrestaurant.co.uk

Little Arras
‍Refined dining in a historic townhouse, known for carefully crafted tasting menus.
🔗 www.arrasrestaurant.co.uk

The Bow Room at Grays Court
‍Fine dining set within one of York’s most historic hotels, offering elegant British cuisine.
🔗 www.thebowroomyork.com