Summer is on the way! The warm weather and longer days mean you can enjoy outdoor activities, soak up the sunshine, and explore everything York offers throughout the summer months.
We’ve pulled together a list of the top 10 summer activities you can do in York the next time you visit. Keep reading to find out what they are!
Cruise along the river
Step on board the deck of one of York’s finest river boats and take in the sights from on the water. You’ll learn all about the River Ouse as well as an onboard commentary. Throughout the cruise, you can treat yourself to a selection of refreshments like wine, beer, soft drinks and snacks, all while feeling the river breeze through your hair.
Pre-booking is recommended to avoid disappointment. You can book your place on their website.
Get lost in the York Maze
Located just outside of the city centre, you’ll find the York Maze. It’s perfect for all ages and features the largest ‘maize’ maze in Britain! It covers an area larger than eight Wembley football pitches and has a new design to solve every year. Once you’ve navigated the maze, you can enjoy some of the other rides and activities like the Crowmania ride or Cornula.
For more information and to book your visit, view their website.
Hop onboard an open-top bus
Feel the sun on your back as you relax on board one of York’s open-top buses. The tour will take you around the city, showing you all the famous landmarks, sights and architecture from the comfort of the bus. There are plenty of stops where you can hop on and off for photo opportunities and explore further.
Learn more over on their website.
Relax over some retail therapy
Everyone loves to do a spot of shopping, and the warm weather certainly helps make the experience more enjoyable! York is home to some of the best independent shops and retailers in Yorkshire, selling everything from gifts to food and wines. We’d recommend taking a stroll up the iconic Shambles to discover what they have to offer. You never know, you might even get some free samples!
Sip cocktails by the river
Cocktails and summer are a match made in heaven! And there’s no better place to take in the York views and ambience than by the riverside. There are many bars located here such as Pitcher and Piano or Revolution. For the best riverside cocktail experience, we’d suggest going to watch the sunset!
Enjoy alfresco dining
Al fresco dining is one of the best ways to take in the hustle and bustle of the city, while tucking into some delicious dishes. There are plenty of restaurants around York that offer outdoor seating, such as The Star Inn The City or Lucia Wine Bar. To discover some of York’s finest restaurants, check out our blog.
Discover Thor’s Sol Ast
Each year Thor’s Tipi returns to two locations in York – Parliament Street and The Principal Hotel Gardens. They’re both places for glamorous get-togethers, summer-inspired cocktails and celebrating the finer things in life with friends. On the menu, you can expect things like summer slushies, spritzers and street food.
Explore York on foot
One of the best ways to explore York is on foot! When it’s sunny, it makes exploring a city more fun and picturesque. There are plenty of walking tours around York, some of which are self-guided so you can take your time once you get to each stop. For those of you with a more spooky side, there’s even a ghost walk which takes you to some of York’s most haunted and ghoulish spots.
Learn more about walking tours and find your route here.
Pack a picnic for the Museum Gardens
The museum gardens in York are an idyllic haven of plants, flowers and wildlife. It makes the perfect spot for a picnic! Once you’ve finished eating, you can explore the botanical gardens or discover St Mary’s Abbey.
Plan your visit to the gardens here.
Cool down with a delicious ice cream
The best thing about summer is endless ice cream! In York, you’ll be spoiled for choice as there are many independent ice cream parlours around the city. Robertos offers the finest Italian-style gelato and desserts, while The Luxury Ice Cream Company has an array of flavours and toppings.
We hope that our blog has helped to inspire your next summer trip to York!
You can book your next staycation in York here.
