Like many postgraduates at the University, I moved to York from a different place. In September 2020, I made the decision to move to York and start my MA in Public History. I was lucky as my partner has been here since 2018 doing his BA. This means I have spent a decent amount of time in York. But what did all the time I spent here before moving teach me? Where to eat, where to buy groceries and most importantly for me… where to buy the best tea. Without further ado, let’s get into the most amazing places (or what I think are the best places) for the best days out in York that you can enjoy when restrictions are over.
Start your day the right way
The first stop of the best days out in York starts with a great breakfast. For me, that means making a cup of green tea at home with leaves purchased from Hebden Tea. They have two shops within the city centre, one is in The Shambles and a smaller shop near the Minster. The range of tea is amazing: from sweet fruity concoctions to builder strength breakfast teas, you can’t go wrong. The shop even sell tea pots, infusers and caddies for you to make your own tea at home.
If you want something really lovely and sweet (or savoury) for breakfast, Double Dutch Pancake House in town will leave you in pure happiness. Not only with the size and taste of their pancakes but the lovely staff as well. Or if you’re after something smaller, but still worth the money, head to one of the many bakeries floating around. For those who like a sweet breakfast, Brew and Brownie near the Minster is delicious. If you’re after something savoury like a vegan (or not) sausage roll, head to Greggs, Cooplands or the Cornish Bakery.
Explore York’s variety of shops
After breakfast, it’s time for some shopping. Shambles Market has stalls full of fruit and veg, clothing and jewellery that you won’t find in high-street shops. And if you don’t find anything you like there, or you’re after some general pieces like socks or jeans, don’t worry. There are plenty of chain shops in the city centre and an array of charity shops scattered through town.
Gift shopping is easy in York. With geek culture all around, you’ll find the perfect gift for anyone. For movie and music lovers there is HMV, and comic and manga fans need look no further than Travelling Man comic bookshop. The shops don’t end with places like Travelling Man and The Shop That Must Not Be Named. On The Shambles you can find gorgeous glass gifts, beautifully decorated journals and stationary. There’s even some sweet treats like Roly’s Fudge or York’s Chocolate Story just around the corner.
And who could possibly walk through Shambles without stopping in amazement at York Ghost Merchants. The small ghosts that fill the shop vary in prices but with each being handmade and no two looking exactly the same. They are graceful pieces for anyone to have – birthday shopping is done in a pinch!
Nights out in York with friends
Days out in York are great, but if you’re anything like me, you’re already planning your first nights out when lockdown ends. There are so many places that I can’t wait to go for nights and days out with friends. If you want a fun and chilled out bit of competition that ends with being told whether you’re a witch and getting yourself a free drinkable potion, look no further than the Hole In The Wand.
The Hole In The Wand is York’s brand new nine hole mini golf site in the heart of Coppergate. It opens on 17 May (you can book now or just turn up). It sounds like the perfect amount of fun and competition for all ages.
If competition isn’t your thing and, like my partner, you have also missed the atmosphere of sitting in the dark with a new movie and some popcorn in front of you, Everyman Cinema will be opening back up in May. Everyman combines new releases and food that you can order to be brought to your seats. Grab a blanket and rejoice in the comfy seats and service at Everyman!
Kick-start your night
If you want more of the typical student night out, that I know I’ve missed this year, I would say start with a dinner that will keep you going through the night. You can pick up some great deals at Aldi in Fulford for a quick dinner before the night begins. Or you could head to the city and go to one of the many restaurants around. My recommendation is Pavement Vaults which serves amazing food in huge portions!
After this, if you want the typical student night out I recommend heading for a few cocktails or shots to kick-start your night. My cocktail bar of choice, though it can be somewhat expensive, is Evil Eye in the city centre. Evil Eye serves a huge range of different cocktails with unique names that you won’t find in Wetherspoons. Or if you want something that is different and plays music that you likely won’t find in another club or bar in York, I recommend The Stone Roses Bar. Stones, as it is known in York, is littered with music memorabilia and is the provider of one of York’s most infamous blue drinks!
Dance the night away
If you want some cheesy dance music and a fun night out, look for Flares. And if you want a revolving dance floor to make you feel a little dizzier on your night, a short walk away is Pop World. I highly recommend spinning whilst singing along to S Club 7.
With my day and night over, it will be time to head back home. I try to work off the hangover that is sure to follow me the next day.
I hope I have been helpful and given you with some ideas for days out in York you can do once town opens up completely again. Make sure you take in all the fun that York has to offer!
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