Most people who come to York for a day trip have more-or-less the same itinerary: visit the Shambles, get a chocolate shot, go to the ghost merchants, walk the city walls. But beyond its iconic tourist hot-spots, the city boasts a wealth of hidden gems. Whether you’re a Harry Potter fanatic, foodie or a prospective student just taking a look around, York has something for everyone. Here’s my guide to a great day trip in York.
Arriving in York
You’re probably arriving from York Train Station, so let’s begin there.
A five-minute walk along the road brings you to Partisan — a cosy cafe with a beautiful selection of drinks, pastries, and treats. Grab one for your breakfast, then admire the cobbled streets, cherry blossom trees (if it’s spring), and stunning architecture as you walk towards the city.
Museum Gardens
Our first stop is the gorgeous York Museum Gardens. Stroll through them and find a hideaway to enjoy your breakfast. From the gardens, you can watch the River Ouse glisten, explore the botanical gardens, and admire the ruins of St Mary’s Abbey. It’s the perfect place to relax, soak in some of the city’s extensive history, and enjoy a moment of peace before entering the bustling streets of York.
The Shambles
Brush the crumbs off your lap and head into the city! Our next stop is the Shambles — it’s iconic for a reason. Often referred to as the “best preserved medieval street in Europe” and famously known as the inspiration for Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley, it’s a spot you shouldn’t miss.
Walking down the Shambles, you can still spot remnants of the people that once lived there centuries ago. See if you can spot the original hooks that once hung meat at butchers! Grab some lunch from the adjacent market (I recommend Smokehouse Burritos) before heading off to your next iconic spot — the Minster!
York Minster
York Minster is the largest Gothic cathedral in the UK — and it doesn’t disappoint. Pictures could never do it justice, but do bring your camera regardless. If you’d like, you could go into the Minster (it’s free for York residents and students!) and climb the Central Tower to get a panoramic view of York.
Treasurer’s House
Just behind the Minster lies Treasurer’s House. Have a break and sit in the gardens, where you’ll find centuries old statues, a fountain and greenery. It’s a perfectly quaint oasis to rest in before you head off for dinner. If you haven’t found somewhere that’s caught your eye at this point, I recommend Ate O’ Clock or Los Moros!
Drinks to finish
Finish off your trip with a drink at the Golden Fleece or Dyls if you’re fancying something a little quieter. Or, if your legs aren’t too tired, why not take a ghost tour, and find out about York’s spooky history! Regardless of your choice, I hope you had the best time in York!
– Misha 💗
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