Nestled in the heart of North Yorkshire, the historic city of York is a charming destination that seamlessly combines its rich heritage with a vibrant modern atmosphere. But sometimes, amidst the hustle and bustle of city life, we all crave a moment of tranquillity. Luckily, York offers an array of relaxing adventures just a stone’s throw away. 

Wander through the Yorkshire Dales

A mere hour’s drive from York lies the breathtaking Yorkshire Dales National Park, a true haven for nature enthusiasts. Immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes, from rolling hills to cascading waterfalls. Lace up your hiking boots and explore the numerous trails, each revealing its own unique beauty. 

Explore the routes by visiting: Best Walks in the Yorkshire Dales  

Cruise the River Ouse:

For a leisurely experience, hop aboard a scenic river cruise along the tranquil waters of the River Ouse. Drift away from the city’s hustle and let the gentle current carry you through picturesque scenery. It’s the perfect way to unwind and see York from a different perspective.

Book your cruise by visiting: York Boat Trips, Cruises and Tours 

Visit the York Museum Gardens 

Tucked away behind the medieval walls, the York Museum Gardens provide an oasis of calm amidst the city centre. Stroll through beautifully manicured gardens, discover ancient ruins, and marvel at the vibrant flowers in bloom. Find a quiet spot to sit and read a book or simply enjoy a picnic surrounded by history.  

Plan your visit: York Museum Gardens  

Explore the Howardian Hills:

Venture just beyond the outskirts of York, and you’ll find the charming Howardian Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This idyllic countryside offers a chance to reconnect with nature and unwind. Take a leisurely walk along the country lanes, or stop by one of the villages and savour a delicious cream tea.

Discover how to get there by visiting: Howardian Hills 

Discover the Grandeur of Castle Howard:

Immerse yourself in the splendour of Castle Howard, located just a short distance from York. This magnificent stately home, with its stunning architecture and vast estate, offers a serene and captivating experience. Lose yourself in the labyrinthine paths or find a peaceful spot to sit and soak up your surroundings. 

Plan your trip by visiting: Castle Howard House and Gardens

Looking for a place to stay when you next visit York? Book a room in our luxury, York hotel: Hotel Indigo York.

Did you know York was once home to the royal family? Thanks to its fascinating history, York has a never ending list of places to explore. In this blog, our hotel in York describes the best things to do, inspired by royalty so you can feel like the King or Queen you are!

Walk York City Walls

One of the most popular things to do in York is to walk the historic City Walls, which are a scheduled ancient monument. Built in the 13th century when York was the capital of England, they formed part of York castle. Our York hotel is a two-minute walk away from one of the entrances to the walls at Walmgate Bar.

Climb Clifford’s Tower

One of the last remaining structures of York Castle, Cifford’s Tower has played many roles over its history, one of which was as the Royal Mint. Today, visitors can climb the tower for spectacular views across the city. A recent renovation has opened even more of the tower to showcase rooms and features that have been hidden for centuries.

National Railway Museum

If you’re looking for things to do in York for the whole family, the National Railway Museum is a must-visit. The museum has frequently held many royal-inspired exhibitions, including Royals on Rails, and is also home to Queen Victoria’s royal carriage. The carriage was restored in 2019, when HRH The Princess Royal visited to admire the work.

Castle Howard

Castle Howard was built by Sir John Vanbrugh and Sir Nicholas Hawksmoor, both of whom have built other royal houses, including Blenheim Palace. The residents of Castle Howard historically include Lords, Ladies, Earls and Dukes. The castle and gardens are full of heritage, and the Fitzroy Restaurant is one of the best places to eat in York.

Explore York Minster

York Minster is one of the best things to do in York, but it also has many historic, royal connections. King Richard III planned to be buried here, but unfortunately, his wish was not fulfilled. The Minster has also been the location for royal weddings. The most recent was in 1961, when the Duke of Kent married Katharine Worsley in the presence of royalty from across Europe. In 1328, it was the site of the wedding of Edward III and Philippa of Hainault. 

Micklegate

Part of the York City Walls, Micklegate Bar marks the traditional royal entrance into the city. Historically, reigning monarchs must pass beneath it when visiting York, stopping to ask the Lord Mayor’s permission to enter. When King Charles III and the Queen Consort visited York in November 2022, they passed under this gate to greet the Lord Mayor of York.

Feeling inspired by these royal things to do in York? Enjoy a luxurious stay at our hotel in York, and feel like royalty with our special offers.

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.

Find out more here.

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.

York is the perfect location for your next staycation, but, as with any city break, the costs can soon add up. You don’t need to worry though! While York is a city that’s steeped in history and has so many attractions on offer, a lot of them are actually free.

Keep reading for 11 free things to do in York. Your bank balance will thank you later!

Visit The National Railway Museum

Museums are ideal for rainy days and the National Railway Museum is no exception. Here, you’ll be able to fully immerse yourself in the past, present, and future of railways. What’s more, entry to the museum is entirely free! 

The museum is located near to the train station and is just a 20-minute walk away from the hotel. It’s open Wednesday-Sunday from 10.00-17:00. Book your visit over on their website.

Amble Down The Shambles

The Shambles is one of York’s most popular attractions – and for good reason! This little street is one of the oldest in the whole of Europe and is home to some of York’s best independent retailers. Get taken back in time as you walk down the cobbled street and take in the overhanging buildings. It’s free just so long as you don’t buy anything!

Discover more about The Shambles here.

Walk around the York City Walls

The York City Walls are a reminder of mediaeval times and are beautifully preserved despite having been built in the 13th century. They go all around the city and offer stunning views of York’s most interesting architecture. If you want to walk around the full length of the walls, it takes around 2 hours, making it the perfect afternoon out of the hotel! 

The walls usually open from 8am until dusk. For more information, you can learn more here.

Visit Homestead Park

If you fancy being at one with nature, then look no further than Homestead Park. It’s home to some of York’s most diverse species and is a fantastic place to view wildlife. The park features many different areas and zones, such as a wildflower meadow, pond, rock garden and a children’s play area. All you need is to stock up on snacks and you’re good to go! 

Homestead Park is located around 1.5 miles west of the city centre, which you can access by bus, car or bike. There are also downloadable walking trails within the park ahead of your visit. Explore them here

Take a Guided Walking Tour 

Some of York’s finest buildings and attractions are best accessed on foot. So why not book a free guided walking tour of the city? The Association of Voluntary Guides to the City of York has been offering complimentary guided tours since 1951. They’re the perfect way to soak up all the history and culture that York has to offer. There are usually two walks a day – one in the morning and one in the evening, but booking is recommended as their numbers are limited to 30 per tour.

You can find out more and book here

Stroll Around the York Museum Gardens

The York Museum Gardens is a wildlife haven, with many plant species and historical features to uncover. Walk around and appreciate the peace and tranquillity of the gardens, while learning about the wildlife that resides there. You’ll also find the historic St Mary’s Abbey here too, which was once one of the most powerful monasteries in England. Today, you can explore the ruins and see the stone walls that once defended the abbey.

Learn more and plan your visit here. 

Get Lost in the Shambles Market

The Shambles market is one of the most vibrant places in York. Here you’ll find a large collection of York’s finest independent retailers selling a variety of items including food, flowers and local produce. It’s free to enter, provided you can resist the temptation of the stallholders! You never know, you might be able to pick up a few free samples. 

Plan your visit to The Shambles Market here.

Relax in Rowntree Park

Rowntree Park is situated on the banks of the River Ouse, and is the perfect space for relaxing with friends or family and enjoying nature. The park is a beautiful haven featuring woodland, children’s playgrounds, ponds, and much more. Pack yourself a picnic of goodies, and settle down for a fun-filled day.

Learn more about the park and its history here

Take in the Incredible York Minster

York Minster is an iconic attraction and a must-see when you’re visiting the city! Although entry inside the Minster is only free to residents of York, you can stand outside and snap some pictures of this magnificent building. Another option would be to book a service at the Minster, as admission for this is free. 

Discover what’s on at York Minster here

Check out the York Observatory

The York Observatory is located inside the York Museum Gardens, so is ideal if you want to visit two main attractions in one day. The Observatory was built in 1832, and is the oldest working observatory in Yorkshire. It is open most days to the public with free entry. It’s run by a team of dedicated volunteers, who also put on evening events on occasion for you to get a taste of stargazing.

Discover more about York Observatory here

Explore some of York’s Snickelways

For those of you who haven’t heard of Snickelways, they’re a collection of small alleyways and paths which are usually in cities. York has many of these and they’re just perfect for wandering down and exploring. Many of York’s snickelways are actually hidden, and require some effort to find, but there’s thought to be over 50 within the city walls. Why not make it your mission to see how many you can find?

Explore some of York’s Snickelways here.

We hope that this blog has helped you prepare for your staycation to York on a budget! 

To discover more places to add to your York bucket list, check out our blog.

Book your next York stay with us here.

In this blog, we will highlight the York shops that you need to visit when you stay at our hotel, including the best coffee shops in York and the best vintage shops here, too.

Best Coffee Shops in York

1. Gatehouse Coffee

This cafe is at the top of our list of best coffee shops in York! Housed in the York City Walls at Walmgate Bar, they serve delicious warm drinks, sandwiches and baked goods. To find out more about this cafe and experience its beautiful historic views, check out their website.

2. FortyFive Vinyl Café

This coffee shop is the only vinyl café in York, combining great food and drink with a welcoming environment. Try their house-blend coffee with their famous FortyFive grilled cheese for the ultimate York coffee shop experience. For more information, discover their website.

Best Vintage Shops in York

1. Bowler and Betty

Bowler and Betty is one of York’s most famous vintage shops. Established in 2008, the talented team are expert in reworking and reselling vintage clothes. Can’t wait to visit York to buy some vintage gems? Their online shop is full of great finds.

2. Dog & Bone Vintage

This York vintage shop has a truly unique collection of items, as the owner Nic handpicks every piece that appears in the store. The shop has lots of affordable vintage and retro pieces, including men’s and women’s clothes and lifestyle pieces. Discover their story on their website.

Book a stay at our hotel today and browse some of these York shops on your visit.

York is the perfect city location for a picturesque getaway with your loved one. With plenty of romantic ways to spend a day in York, you won’t be short of fun-filled activities where you can spend some quality time together.

Take a look at our top five romantic activities you can do while you’re staying in York.

Have a spa treatment at The Grand

What better way to relax than with a luxurious spa day at The Grand? They offer a wide range of treatments from facials to whole body massages, all set in five-star tranquil surroundings.

Plus with a 14-metre swimming pool, spa whirlpool, Nordic dry sauna, steam room, relaxation lounge and gym, there’s something for every couple.

Take a look at what you can experience at The Spa At The Grand here.

Chocolate making at York Chocolate Story

Chocolates are a romance essential, so why not take it a step further and make your own chocolate? Take a tour of the museum and discover the fascinating confectionary history of York, then at the end of the tour you can make your own chocolate truffles to take home with you.

It’s a great activity for you and your partner to enjoy together. Why not turn it into a competition to see who can create the best truffles?

Discover York Chocolate Story’s Truffle Rolling Tour and book your tickets here.

Pottery painting at Bish Bash Pot

Want a special keepsake as a reminder of your romantic getaway? Pottery painting at Bish Bash Pots is a wonderful way to get your creative juices flowing and create a fun souvenir from your trip.

It’s also just down the road from our hotel! So all that’s left to do is to choose what pot you’ll be painting and brainstorm your design ideas.

Afternoon tea at Bettys

Tea and decadent cakes – what more could you ask for? If you enjoy a spot of afternoon tea, there’s no better place to go than Betty’s Tea Rooms. With a wide variety of delicious sweet treats to tuck into, you can enjoy an indulgent dining experience together.

Betty’s are experts in crafting high-quality patisserie and cakes, all set in a luxurious tea room inspired by the Queen Mary ocean liner. So, you know that you’re in for a decadent romantic afternoon.

Take a walk along the river

A simple walk along the River Ouse is a great way to spend time together and take in the glorious sights of York. If you need to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre, it’s a good way to relax and slow down as you take a gentle stroll down the river.

So, get some comfy shoes on and take a leisurely walk along the river and soak up the romantic setting of York in the best way.

We hope that we’ve inspired your next romantic trip away to York and given you some great ideas for your stay! You can even make your visit extra special with our Romance Package in our luxury York hotel.

Book now for the ultimate romantic trip away.