York Attractions
Find the very best things to do on your trip to York!
Indoor Attractions
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Activities
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COMPLETE YORK ATTRACTIONS GUIDE
Discover all of York's historic and cultural attractions - from medieval walls and Viking heritage to museums, gardens, and chocolate stories.
CITY OF YORK WALLS
The walls which extend for about 2.5 miles are considered to the finest and most complete and beautifully preserved city walls in the country. They still retain four magnificent gateways into the city and around forty towers. A visit to York would not be complete without a walk around the City Walls. Little remains of the original Roman walls and the course of the walls has changed over the centuries. Still a magnificent tourist attraction.
Address: York YO1 7HB
Phone: 01904 621756
YORK MINSTER
York Minster is a medieval cathedral and is the seat of the Archbishop of York. The minster has a wide nave and chapter house, a quire and north and south transepts. There are fine examples of stained glass windows particularly the Great East window which is thought to be the largest expanse of medieval stained glass in the world. In the South transept there is the famous Rose window. A new attraction is The Orb which reveals world class masterpieces in stained glass.
TREASURER'S HOUSE
This Jacobean mansion lies within the tranquil surroundings of the Minster Close only yards from York Minster. The house was saved from ruin from by the wealthy local industrialist Frank Green, who carefully restored the building. He left many fine pieces of furniture and notable collections of china, pottery and glass as well as many other exhibits.
Address: Minster Yard, York YO1 7JL
Phone: 01904 624247
JORVIK VIKING CENTRE
Explore the excavations of Viking-age York and learn about the people and how they lived. The centre is built where archaeologists discovered over 40,000 artefacts of a bygone age. You can journey through the reconstruction of Viking streets and encounter the citizens that lived there. The visitor can see inside houses and experience all the sights, sounds and smells of ancient York. Open seven days a week.
NATIONAL RAILWAY MUSEUM
The Museum has won many awards and is now the home of a collection of over 100 locomotives. There are many other historically significant railway vehicles, as well as a collection of artefacts and pictorial records There are many hundreds of thousands of other items exhibited that show the changes in three hundred years of railway history. It is the largest museum of its type in Britain and receives more visitors than any other museum outside London.
THE SHAMBLES
The Shambles is one street in a maze of twisting and narrow lanes in the centre of York. It is one of the finest medieval streets in the world with overhanging timber-framed buildings, with many dating back to the fourteenth century. Originally a street of butchers' shops and houses, some complete with a slaughterhouse. Meat was hung up outside the shops and laid out for sale on and some of the hooks are still visible. Today the street has a mixture of shops and eating establishments but no butchers.
Address: The Shambles, York YO1 7LZ
YORK CASTLE MUSEUM
One of York's most popular visitor attractions that daily life in England going back over 400 years. Founded in 1938 by Dr John L Kirk it was designed to exhibit his vast collection of artefacts collected in his lifetime. The museum is huge and contained in two buildings. There are many rooms full of exhibits with displays and collections of costumes, textiles, military and social history. There is a recreation of a Victorian street complete with shops. There is also a display about prison life in what was the original Debtor's Prison.
YORKSHIRE MUSEUM
The Museum boasts some of the finest artefacts of York and Yorkshire history The museum stands in Museum Gardens, immediately beside the ruins of St Mary's Abbey. Four permanent exhibitions cover biology, astronomy, geology and archaeology. Outstanding exhibits include The Cawood Sword and The Middleham Jewel. Other exhibits include mediaeval jewellery, Roman mosaics and a fine display of Viking weapons.
CLIFFORD'S TOWER
Very little remains of York Castle but on a tall mound lies a fine example of the medieval Norman keep, commonly known as Clifford's Tower. Over time the castle has been a castle, prison, a royal mint and law courts. Built originally on the orders of William The Conqueror to dominate the former Viking city. Panoramic views from the top of Clifford's Tower looking over the city make it one of the most popular attractions.
YORK'S CHOCOLATE STORY
An entertaining and informative guided tour through the history of York's most famous chocolate-making families and their finest creations. You will discover chocolate's origins, how to make it, how to taste it like an expert and even the future of chocolate. You will also uncover a host of surprising secrets and fascinating facts behind York's greatest chocolate products, from the Chocolate Orange to the globally famous KitKat. Once you have explored chocolate making and its history you can even shop for and indulge in chocolate to your heart's content.
YORK DUNGEON
York Dungeon is a 70-minute journey into more than 2000 years of York's horrible history. There is an amazing cast of theatrical actors, special effects, stages and scenes in a truly unique and exciting walkthrough experience that you see, hear, touch, smell and feel. It's hilarious fun and it's sometimes a bit scary. follow the story of York's darkest history through 11 live shows and come face-to-face with characters from York's gruesome past.
MANSION HOUSE
The Mansion House is situated on St Helen's Square in York's city centre. It is the official residence of the Lord Mayor of York during their term in office. This early Georgian style building was completed in 1732. In 1988 the house was restored to architectural masterpiece of today by the York Civic Trust. It exhibits an extensive collection of civic regalia and artefacts with a wide collection of silver, paintings and furniture.
YORK ARMY MUSEUM
The museum shows the history of two Yorkshire's regiments, Royal Dragoon Guards and Prince of Wales's Own Regiment of Yorkshire. It is well laid out with spacious surroundings and tells the story of former regiments from the late 17th century. Displays include uniforms, paintings, weapons and Standards, all housed in well lit show cases. There is a gift shop which sells books, ties and a good selection of regimental regalia and memorabilia.
MERCHANT ADVENTURERS' HALL
This medieval guildhall was originally constructed in 1357 and was one of the most important buildings in the medieval city. It is now home to an extensive collection of silver, furniture and paintings which provide a glimpse into the history of the Hall and the people associated with it. The Hall is open every day as a museum and can also be hired for parties, dinners and special occasions.
THE GUILDHALL
The Guildhall is located behind The Mansion House in the city centre. Mainly built in the 15th century on a former Hall site. It served as a meeting place for the guilds of York who controlled trade within York. Substantially damaged during the war. The stone walls, however, escaped total destruction and now form the frame of the reconstructed hall. The Inner Room survived and retains much of it's original character.
Address: St Helens Square, York YO1 9QN
Phone: 01904 613161
BARLEY HALL
Barley Hall is a magnificent medieval house that has been restored to its original splendour with stunning high ceilings and exposed timber frames. The oldest parts of the build date from the 14th Century and the building was close to being demolished when York Archaeological Trust bought it in 1987. Visitors can wander around the interior, sit on the chairs and experience life in Medieval England.
MICKLEGATE BAR MUSEUM
Micklegate Bar is within the city walls and the 800-year-old building was the gateway into the city York. The museum exhibits a civil and social insight into the history of York. Explore the pageantry and barbaric history that has unfolded over the centuries. Learn about how the heads of traitors and tyrants were displayed here after execution for all of York to see.
RICHARD III MUSEUM
Possibly one of York's best kept secrets is this fascinating Museum situated in York's tallest and most impressive Medieval Gatehouse - Monk Bar. Built in the 14th Century it boasts a rare example of a working portcullis. There are three rooms in all, the uppermost is said to have been added by King Richard himself in 1484. As well as the exhibition where Richard is put on trial there is a gift shop which offers books, prints and souvenirs.
YORK BREWERY VISITOR CENTRE
The centre is a traditional working brewery and major tourist attraction. Guided tours give the visitor an insider's view of the production of a number of beers. See, smell and taste some of the wide range of the finest ales. The Gift Shop gives you the opportunity for souvenirs with a comprehensive range of brewery merchandise and beers.
FAIRFAX HOUSE
Visit one of the finest Georgian town houses in England. This architectural masterpiece provides a glimpse of city life in Georgian York. Saved from demolition and returned to its former glory by The York Civic Trust in the 1980's. The superb Noel Terry collection of furniture, clocks, paintings and decorative arts has been described as one of the finest private collections of the twentieth century.
JORVIK DIG
Run by the same people who run JORVIK Viking Centre. DIG offers the visitor a unique archaeological experience. Visitors can grab a trowel and get their hands dirty in the four excavation pits that are filled with Roman, Viking, Medieval and Victorian artefacts. Dig also offers the latest in 3D audio-visual and IT interactive experience.
ALL SAINTS PAVEMENT CHURCH
The church is located in the city centre and dates from the 14th Century although the earliest mention was in the Domesday Book in 1086. The lantern tower is visible from some distance and was built around 1400. The church has many interesting features including the City council pew and the pulpit which dates from 1634. The stained glass windows are from three different periods.
Address: High Ousegate, York YO1 8RZ
HAUNTED HOUSE
The house is over 700 years old and has been plagued by many ghostly encounters. Pay a visit and wander around the shadowy, panelled rooms and prepare for the icy touch of invisible fingers or eerie screechings. The house is said to be the most haunted place in England. Will you dare to visit this awe-inspiring meeting with restless spirits?
THE BAR CONVENT
England's oldest convent was founded in 1686 and is still active with a resident religious community. It was established as a school for girls and the fine 18th century buildings now house a museum, library & archives, gift shop, together with well-equipped meeting rooms, guest house accommodation with free Wi-Fi and a café.
ROMAN BATH PUBLIC HOUSE
During re-development work a Roancaldarium, a Roman steam bath was excavated. The well preserved semi-circular bath has steps to both ends and a plunge pool. The tiles show actual footprint indentations and there is also an insignia of a Roman legion believed to be that of the 9th legion, who founded Eboracum in AD71.
Address: 9 St Sampsons Square, York YO1 8RN
Phone: 01904 620455
Website: sandm.freeserve.co.uk/romanbath
YORK COLD WAR BUNKER
A two-storey semi-subterranean Cold War bunker that was built in 1961 to monitor nuclear explosions and fallout in the event of nuclear war. The control rooms display original monitoring and communications equipment. Decontamination rooms with air filters and special sewage ejectors. There is a display of technical equipment and machinery.
Address: Monument Close, York YO24 4HT
Phone: 0870 333 1181
QUILT MUSEUM & GALLERY
Since its formation in 1979, The Quilters' Guild has built up a unique collection of antique and contemporary quilts from around the British Isles. There are over 700 items on display, from the earliest known dated British patchwork the 1718 Silk Patchwork Coverlet to recent pieces by contemporary quilt makers. The vast collection includes miniature pieces, quilted clothing, small domestic items templates, tools and quilting equipment.
HOLY TRINITY CHURCH
The church dates back to the 15th century but there is evidence of earlier establishment. It stands in a small churchyard in one of York's busiest shopping streets. To visit, you pass through an 18th-century archway. Inside the stained glass East window is stunning. The box pews, unique in York, are exceptionally fine, and an interesting collection of monuments and memorials paint a picture of life in this busy city throughout the ages.
Address: 70 Goodramgate, York YO1 7LF
ATTRACTIONS OUTSIDE THE CITY
YORKSHIRE AIR MUSEUM
The Yorkshire Air Museum is the largest independent air museum in Britain and is also the location of The Allied Air Forces Memorial. Situated in a twenty acre award-winning parkland site on the former World War II RAF Bomber Command Station at Elvington. It includes a large NAAFI style licensed restaurant and a shop, plus over 15 top class exhibitions and over sixty historic aircraft and vehicles. Corporate facilities and free parking.
YORK MAZE
York maze is an award winning, seasonal attraction for the whole family. Have an action packed, fun filled day in the country, exploring your way around a giant maze. With over twenty exciting rides, shows and attractions families can be kept busy for the whole day! There is a coffee shop and gift shop. Set in beautiful Yorkshire countryside, yet only 10 minutes by car from the centre of York, it's a great day out you don't want to miss!
GODDARDS GARDEN
The former home of Noel Goddard Terry of the famous York chocolate-making firm. It was designed by architect Walter Brierley in the Arts and Crafts style and is complemented by four acres of gardens, designed by George Dillistone. The house has selected rooms displayed to give glimpses into the family home and working chocolate factory. The garden includes yew-hedged garden rooms, a bowling green and wilderness gardens and plants.
Address: 27 Tadcaster Road, York YO24 1GG
Phone: 01904 702021
Website: nationaltrust.org.uk/goddards
YORK BIRD OF PREY CENTRE
The Centre and office are open six days a week from 10.30am to 5.00pm and closed on Tuesdays. The centre is home for more than fifty birds of prey. Visitors are welcome to handle the birds with the help of staff and there are two flying shows each day at 1.30pm & 3.30pm. A shop provides a wide selection of food and drink.
HOLGATE WINDMILL
Curiously this wonderful tourist attraction is situated in the middle of a roundabout at the centre of a 1960's residential estate just outside York. It dates as far back as 1770 and is now a fully restored and working 18 Century windmill. Visitors can explore four floors and when the wind permits they can see how flour is produced.
BENINGBROUGH HALL AND GARDENS
Beningbrough Hall is a large 18th Century house near the village of Beningbrough overlooking the river Ouse. It has one of Britain's finest baroque interiors with interactive galleries and over 100 National Portrait Gallery paintings and The building has a grand drive running up to the main frontage and is set in extensive grounds with beautiful gardens and an attractive walled garden. Facilities include a restaurant, shop and garden shop.
Address: Beningbrough, York YO30 1DD
Phone: 01904 470666
BREEZY KNEES GARDENS
Situated approximately five miles from York city centre, The gardens are packed with over 6,000 different varieties of flowers, shrubs and trees. There are extensive herbaceous borders and a series of other areas including a rock garden, fountains, shrub garden and a pond. There is also a conifer & grass garden, annual meadow, rose garden that have been designed through careful successional planting to be at their best throughout the summer.
WEB ADVENTURE PARK
The park provides a variety of activities and attractions for all the family. The Indoor Play Centre has separate play zones suitable for younger children and older ones. There is lots to do and there is a cafe. There is an outside Adventure Park with play areas, rides and gardens. The Animal Zone is where children can get close to a number of animals.
STILLINGFLEET LODGE GARDENS
The farmhouse is situated 6 miles from York and is surrounded by a series of small gardens and a nursery. Each garden is filled with texture and foliage, densely planted for ease of maintenance based on cottage garden principles. A woodland walk leads to a wildlife pond and further to a wildflower meadow. The gardens are is home to several varieties of rare poultry and is full of birds and butterflies. Plants can be bought in the nursery.
Address: Stewart Lane, Stillingfleet YO19 6HP
Phone: 01904 728506
Website: stillingfleetlodgenurseries.co.uk
YORKSHIRE MUSEUM OF FARMING
Established by the Yorkshire Farm Machinery Preservation Society and was opened to the 1982. The mission of the museum is to collect, document, display, research and preserve material relating to farming in the historic boundaries of Yorkshire from the earliest development of agriculture up to the mid-twentieth century. There is a large collection of artefacts that illustrate the history of farm mechanisation.
NUNNINGTON HALL
This grand 17th Century Yorkshire manor house is found by the River Rye. From the magnificent oak-panelled hall, follow three staircases to discover family rooms, the nursery, the haunted room and the attics. View the fascinating Carlisle collection of miniature rooms fully furnished to reflect different periods.
Address: Nunnington, York YO62 5UY
Phone: 01439 748283
Website: nationaltrust.org.uk/nunnington-hall
Complete York Attractions Guide
Total Attractions: 35
All attractions from the list are included with complete descriptions, addresses, phone numbers, and websites where available.