48 hours in York – your post-lockdown guide to the city

15 January 2021 by Evie
2 minute read

Hello, I’m Evie, a third year Politics student here at York. I’m going to tell you all about how to spend 48 hours in York! York is a really compact city, with lots to see, and unique historic buildings, so it’s perfect for exploring.

Day One

48 hours in York - York City Art Gallery — York City Art Gallery

You’ve arrived in York! Start your trip with brunch at Brew and Brownie. This is one of my favourite independent cafes in York- it’s in a fab location on the river near the train station, and their hot chocolates can’t be beaten!

Then head to York Art Gallery, which has a varied permanent exhibition and an exciting range of temporary exhibitions. Even if art galleries aren’t your thing, it’s worth visiting to see the gorgeous building. Afterwards, refuel for lunch with a Yorkshire pudding wrap at the York Roast Co.

YORK MINSTER FROM COLLEGE STREET — York Minster from College Street

In the afternoon, head to York Minster. This is one of the largest cathedrals in Northern Europe, and the gardens surrounding it are lovely to stroll in too.

Next, go to the Shambles to check out York’s most iconic street- it’s rumoured this was the inspiration for Diagon Alley! There are some really good independent shops to check out around here too; I love browsing at The Minster Gate Bookshop, and Earworm Records offers a really good selection of vinyl and CDs.

For dinner, check out Yak and Yeti. This is a Nepalese restaurant with a friendly feel, and they have a delicious vegan selection in particular.

Day Two

York’s centre is enclosed by the City Walls, which add to York’s medieval charm and are perfect for a stroll around the city too! Remember to bring your camera to capture the city vistas.

The best coffee shop to be found in York is Gatehouse Coffee. This is inside one of the many ‘gates’ which punctuate the walls, so it’s a perfect stop-off point to refuel. Check out Humpit for lunch, which offers hummus and falafel wraps, and maybe get a doughnut from neighbouring Doe Bakehouse to go with it!

There’s a viking festival in york every year

Next, check out the Jorvik Viking Centre, where you get to experience the sights and smells of Viking-era York. Your visit here includes both a ‘ride’ around a recreated Viking city and an informative exhibition on everyday life during this period.

Finish off your stay with tea and cake from Crumbs Cupcakery, which offers a stunning view of the York Minster.

Hi, my name’s Evie and I’m a third year studying Politics at York. I love York as it’s such a cosy and friendly place, but there’s so much to get involved in! I have a keen interest in women’s rights, and am part of the Free the Flow York and University of York Amnesty International