Known for its Roman walls, historic museums and the oldest gothic cathedral in Northern Europe, York has plenty of tourist hotspots. But what about the lesser-known gems? In this blog, our York hotel helps you discover another side of the city with 13 hidden delights.
1. Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma-Gate
Blink and you’ll miss this one! The shortest street in York is nestled just next to the far better-known Shambles. It is said to mean “nothing at all” in Middle English and provides a great photo op.
2. The Astronomical Clock
If you’re exploring the better-known Minster, keep your eyes peeled for this hidden treasure inside. Embedded in the north transept, the Astronomical Clock depicts the movement of the sun and stars around York.
3. War Memorial Gardens
You can be forgiven for missing these quaint gardens, tucked away behind a coach stop next to the train station. The Portland stone memorial offers a quiet place for reflection, overlooking the Ouse river.
4. The Cat Trail
Don’t forget to look up while you’re wandering around. There are a number of hidden cat statues dotted around York city centre. We’ll give you a clue, the first can be found near the Cat Gallery on Low Petergate.
5. Thor’s Tipi
You’ll have to time your visit well for this one! Open in the summer months, Thor’s Tipi is an open-air bar & restaurant and offers food, drinks and relaxing spaces to lounge. Find it in The Principal Hotel gardens, every summer.
(Photo Credit: Thor’s Tipi)
6. York Art Gallery Sculpture Garden
Wander around the back of York Museum Gardens and you’ll discover an exhibit that was installed in 2019. Nestled in the gardens’ greenery, you will find vast metal sculptures crafted by talented artists.
7. Rowntree Park
A walk down the river will lead you to Rowntree Park: home to stunning gardens, a quaint café and even skate ramps and tennis courts. The perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the high street.
(Photo Credit: Jorvik)
8. Millennium Bridge
After leaving Rowntree Park, don’t forget to get a photo on Millennium Bridge, overlooking the River Ouse. This contemporary structure is even more aesthetically pleasing at night – it lights up in a broad spectrum of colours!
9. Route 65
If you’re an avid cyclist, consider exploring York on the Route 65 trail. This picturesque cycle route takes you along the River Ouse with plenty of tourist sights to take in on the way.
10. Homestead Park
Heading out of town? As you make your way north, pop into Homestead Park. Located in Clifton, York this beautiful 14-acre garden provides the perfect dog-walking or picnic spot. As well as the formal gardens, it also has two play areas for the little ones.
11. The Cold War Bunker
If you’re a self-confessed history buff, you’ll love this – the York Cold War Bunker is a real underground bunker located just outside of the city in Acomb. Discover what life was like during this period of political tension and uncover the secret history of Britain’s Cold War.
12. York University
The University of York enjoys national prestige thanks to its Russell Group status. What’s more, it’s a beautiful campus that is free for the public to walk around. Marvel at the gorgeous gardens in ‘the quiet place’ or look over Europe’s largest plastic-bottomed lake from Central Hall!
(Photo credit: University of York, Facebook)
13. The Buddha Statue
If you are heading to the York campus, make sure you find the hidden Buddha statue between Vanbrugh and Derwent Colleges. The statue was donated by Elizabeth Cooper, whose father was the inspiration behind the university’s library.
