York Visitor Guide 2024 by Visit York

York Visitor Guide

2024 Food & Drink | Attractions | Shopping

@visityork

CONTENTS

Welcome To York Love York With more attractions per square mile than any other city in the UK, York is full of culture, art, history and heritage. Immerse yourself in everything from must-see attractions, iconic historic buildings, vibrant performing arts to hidden gems, as well as charming pubs, cosy cafés, exquisite fine dining restaurants and unique boutique retailers. Let this guide be your inspiration for a truly unforgettable adventure in York. Be sure to drop by the Visitor Information Centre on Parliament Street, where our welcoming team is ready to enhance your experience and ensure you make the most of your visit.

Discover more at visityork.org

@visityork

Contents LOCALS RECOMMEND

ATTRACTIONS

HIDDEN GEMS

HAPPY FAMILIES

FOODIE DESTINATION

SHAMBLES FOOD COURT

SHAMBLES MARKET

YORK MAP

RETAIL THERAPY

CITY OF TRAILS

HAUNTED YORK

ENTERTAINMENT

STAY IN YORK

BEYOND YORK

EVENTS CALENDAR

2 2

INSPIRATION

Locals Recommend…

Unlock the essence of the city with insider knowledge! Our locals' top tips will help you immerse yourself in the authentic rhythm of the locale, guided by those who know it best. It's the key to transforming your visit from ordinary to extraordinary. “My favourite place to visit in York is Clifford's Tower. It's the remaining part of York's castle and has recently been refurbished with lots of new areas to explore. The views over York from the rooftop are spectacular!” Joseph Unwin, Visitor Information Centre

“My favourite place to visit in York must be York Minster. As soon as you walk in, you can’t help but be in awe of what a magnificent building it is, the craftsmanship, the history, and the events that have taken place throughout centuries.” Jordi Vaca, Head Concierge, The Grand, York

“York is just the BEST place for families. We're famous for chocolate so I'd recommend a trip to York's Chocolate Story for anyone with primary school age children or older... and of course we're the city of Vikings so a trip to JORVIK Viking Centre is a must (nothing smells quite like it!). A walk around the walls and nipping into the new Micklegate Bar Experience is also great. These are all unique to York and favourites for our kids." Emily Pickard, York Mumbler

visityork.org

York Minster

SPARK

National Railway Museum

JORVIK Viking Centre

Museum Gardens

Clifford’s Tower

“York Museum Gardens are well worth a visit. It’s a lovely tranquil garden with the abbey ruins, and you’ll also find the Yorkshire Museum within the gardens. I always enjoy the lovely walk around the gardens and there are plenty of benches to sit on and enjoy watching the squirrels and birds.” Chelsea Lang, student at the University of York

“My favourite place to visit in York is Clucking Oinks in SPARK and on Castlegate. Their fried chicken is the best I’ve ever tasted, and they also offer a tempting array of drinks, sides, and vegetarian/vegan options. The service is friendly and relaxed – it’s always my go-to destination with friends and family.” Millie Douce, York BID

“My Family and I love National Railway Museum. It’s free entry and the attractions are brilliant. It’s an amazing and unique indoor space for children in York and they love playing with the exhibits, like the new Wonderlab and even the trains themselves. Highly recommended for families!” Christian Taylor, Taylor Made Kitchen

@visityork

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Sightseeing. Dining. Private Hire. Self-Drive.

We Create Amazing Experiences. 5

visityork.org

ATTRACTIONS

ATTRACTIONS York seamlessly blends its rich past with a vibrant present, creating an enchanting city that promises a captivating journey through time.

The city caters to everyone with a diverse array of things to do and see. You'll find family-friendly attractions, chances to embrace the city's lush landscapes, delve into ghostly tales, and immerse yourself in guided walks and tours. Cruise along the scenic River Ouse, unravel the tales woven into centuries-old historical houses, and let the city unfold its rich tapestry of history before you.

City Cruises

No trip to York is complete without a walk around the city’s most iconic landmark the medieval city walls - the most intact and the longest medieval city walls in England. These impressive fortifications encircle the historic core and provide an opportunity for a stroll, offering breathtaking views of the city, along its 3.4 kilometre stretch. @visityork

At Micklegate Bar, be sure to look out for the City Walls Experience where you can explore the history of the walls. You'll also encounter the four medieval city bars, the gateways to the city – Bootham Bar, Micklegate Bar, Monk Bar and Walmgate Bar – plus, two smaller bars – Fishergate Bar and Victoria Bar (built for the coronation of Queen Victoria). The beautifully preserved walls and bars are free to access year-round and offer spectacular views of the city.

ADVERTORIAL

Clifford’s Tower

Clifford’s Tower is one of York’s must-see sites, offering unrivalled views over the heart of the ancient city and an unforgettable insight into its turbulent past. Once part of the mighty York Castle, built to subdue the rebellious north by William the Conqueror, the tower has been used as a royal mint, a medieval stronghold and a Civil War garrison. The site has recently re-opened to the public following a major £5 million project to conserve and radically transform the interior of the 800year-old landmark.

Today, a new roof deck gives unrivalled views over York's historic skyline, with its medieval buildings and famous Minster. It’s the perfect place to get a picture of the city of York. Inside, new walkways and staircases have opened up parts of the tower that have been off-limits for centuries, and immersive soundscapes and stories bring the tower’s turbulent history to life like never before. You can find Clifford’s Tower in York city centre set picturesquely between the Ouse and Foss rivers in the south of the city. It’s just a few minutes’ walk from the Shambles through the Coppergate Shopping Centre. www.english-heritage.org.uk/cliffords

visityork.org

SCREAM YOUR WAY THROUGH YORK'S DARKEST HISTORY

W NEOWS SH

ISABELLA BILLINGTON

THE JUDGE

DICK TURPIN

GUY FAWKES

THE VIKINGS

BOOK NOW IF YOU DARE THEDUNGEONS.COM/YORK

Discover the Viking Age Explore the Viking-age settlement of Jorvik, smell how life would have been 1000 years ago, and see actual archaeological finds discovered on location.

Book now at jorvikvikingcentre.co.uk Coppergate | York | YO1 9WT

Days out in York made at Treasurer's House Explore this elaborately decorated town house. Pre-book or drop in to join a tour April to October, Saturday - Wednesday. Or decorated for Christmas during the festive season. Café and garden free to visit. nationaltrust.org.uk/treasurershouse Social icon

Circle Only use blue and/or white. For more details check out our Brand Guidelines.

Discover one of the finest medieval guild halls in the world Enjoy delicious food and drink in our stunning medieval MERCHANTS’ COFFEE HOUSE

VISIT US in Fossgate, York, YO1 9XD

Open 7 days a week Enjoy delicious food and merchantshallyork.org drinkvisit in our new stunning Medieval MERCHANTS’ for more information or call: 01904 654818 COFFEE HOUSE

9 HOLES OF MAGICAL GOLF

THE SEARCH FOR GROBBLENOOK!

Located in Coppergate Shopping Centre, opposite JORVIK Viking Centre.

From only £6.99pp and includes a magical potion worth £3.49! @holeinwand

www.theholeinwand.com/york

AVAI LAB

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The most magical drinks emporium in the world! (located on the Shambles)

@PotionsCauldron www.thepotionscauldron.com

Hidden Gems

HIDDEN GEMS

Step off the beaten track and delve deeper into the city’s ancient past to uncover some of York’s best kept secrets.

Step into the Merchant Adventurers' Hall, a haven of fascinating tales, awe-inspiring architecture and rare artifacts. Plus, delight your senses with locally roasted coffee and a light lunch at the charming coffee house.

York Army Museum curates the

So, head down that snickelway and turn that corner to discover all the best kept secrets, just remember to tell everyone!

history of two current serving regiments of the British Army: The Royal Dragoon Guards and The Royal Yorkshire Regiment – where you can trace their history back over three hundred years. Telling soldiers' stories, this is a unique experience with something to offer all ages. Discover a captivating tale of survival since 1686 at the Bar Convent, the oldest living convent in the UK. Explore intriguing artifacts, an award-winning café, and a charming garden - an exquisite complement to your historical adventure. @visityork

More to Explore Barley Hall

Bedern Hall DIG : An Archaeological Adventure Fairfax House Goddards - National Trust Holy Trinity Goodramgate Roman Bath Museum Treasurer's House - National Trust York Mansion House

visityork.org/hidden-gems 12

Happy Families

FAMILY FRIENDLY

York is an exciting and child-friendly city with lots to offer and keep the whole family joyfully happy. The Yorkshire Air Museum will keep you captivated with the amazing aircraft and the incredible people who designed, built and flew them. Full of amazing machines and incredible stories, they also have exhibition rooms dedicated to Bomber Command, a cinema, shop and café serving a range of hot and cold food, drinks and snacks.

A popular favourite is the National Railway Museum. Not only do they have icons of the railway and thousands of railway related objects, the newly opened Wonderlab: The Bramall Gallery is a special interactive experience for families. The Flying Scotsman VR Experience just adds to the excitement, where you can see the famous locomotive’s story come to life around you. There are endless things for families to do, from encountering the Vikings (and their smells) at the JORVIK Viking Centre, taking it easy with a City Sightseeing bus tour, or getting active at York Leisure Centre: Clip 'n Climb for adventurous climbing sessions designed for everyone.

Yorkshire Air Museum

Enjoy some great family fun at York Golf Range. Find out who can hit the ball furthest on the 300-yard driving range, putt a hole in one on the Crazy Golf course, kick to victory on the Footgolf course and play to par on the 9-hole golf course.

@visityork

Play Golf

@YORK GOLF RANGE

FootGolf Crazy Golf Driving Range www.yorkgolfrange.co.uk 9 Hole Course see website for opening hours

TOWTHORPE MOOR LANE, NR STRENSALL, YORK YO32 9ST tel: 01904 499275

www.yorkgolfrange.co.uk

Model Ra i l wa y s-Pl a s t i cKi t s-S c eni c s Di ec a s tAi r c r a f t&Vehi c l es-S c a l e x t r i c Y or k ’ sol des t model s hop

www. monk ba r model s hop. c o. uk

HONOUR | EDUCATE | INSPIRE

ADVERTORIAL

City of Cats Introduced by the Romans almost 2,000 years ago, the domestic cat is now inextricably woven into the fabric of the City of York. The modern day celebration of all things feline began with the opening of the UK's oldest cat themed shop - The Cat Gallery - in 2001. An independent family business, The Cat Gallery offers a carefully created collection of cat-themed gift ideas and a premium range of toys and treats for their feline friends. Don't miss their Original Lucky Cats, a perfect York souvenir or gift.

One of York’s famous Cat Statues

Did you know, York has life-size cat statues on many city centre buildings? Some are 100 years old! The Cat Gallery have created a FREE self-guided cat hunt that is great fun for all ages. Pick up a map with clues at The Cat Gallery, where the trail starts. In need of a real cat fix? The Cat Trail will also guide you to The Cat's Whiskers, York's cat café. So with a cat shop, a cat trail and a cat café, York truly is a City of Cats!

Original Lucky Cats

@visityork

The Cat Gallery, 45 Low Petergate, York thecatgallery.co.uk 18

Foodie Destination

HIDDEN FOOD & GEMS DRINK

Discover York's culinary haven with diverse cafés and restaurants offering special experiences, cosy atmospheres, and delightful teas. Experience elevated dining at many of Make sure to explore SPARK*, a dynamic York's restaurants, including Legacy at The space that has lots to offer. With a remit to Grand York or Forage Kitchen & Bar. Or support local entrepreneurs, you can enjoy explore gems like Aldwark Manor Estate, a wide choice of food and drink, vibrant Roots, The Black Swan at Oldstead and spaces and creative events. The Lime Tree Inn. No York adventure is truly fulfilled without For gin lovers, delve into a Gin Tasting Experience with York Gin, inspired by York’s 2,000 year history, their traditional methods make for an exquisite range.

savouring delights from the city's premier chocolatiers, including York Cocoa Works, where you can not only taste but also craft your own chocolate. Indulge further at the Renowned for authentic Brazilian grilling at immersive York's Chocolate Story, Rio Brazilian Steakhouse, they also cater to narrating the captivating history of chocolate. vegetarians and vegans, ensuring a delightful experience for all.

ENJOY AN AUTHENTIC BRAZILIAN CHURRASCO DINING EXPERIENCE RIGHT IN THE HEART OF YORK.

BOOK ONLINE AT: WW.RIO-STEAKHOUSE.CO.UK/YORK 19

visityork.org

SHAMBLES FOOD COURT

Street food at its best Immerse yourself in a sensory delight at Shambles Food Court, nestled within the historic Shambles Market. You can expect delicious street food in a setting steeped in historical charm. Open daily, this culinary haven offers a diverse array of street food, catering to all palates, including vegetarian and vegan options. From North African and Middle Eastern cuisine to Thai delights, bagels, and gourmet sandwiches, there's a treat for every taste. You can also find delicious treats just around the corner on The Shambles, including Shambles Kitchen. Their nationally acclaimed pulled pork sandwiches are not to be missed. Indulge in your chosen flavoursome delights while you sit in the picnic area, taking in the surroundings. Plus, it's a dog-friendly spot and you can grab a treat for your furry friend from the Shambles Market while you indulge in your own delectable feast. @visityork

Thai Season

Goldee’s Bagels

Shambles Kitchen

NaNa Noodles Bar

Los Moros

SHAMBLES MARKET

60 years of the shambles market

In 2024, the Shambles Market joyously commemorates its 60th anniversary, marking a momentous milestone in its rich history. The Shambles Market in York is the city’s only permanent outdoor market, based in the historic core between the Shambles and Parliament Street. Newgate Market c.1960s*

In 700 AD, Saxon-populated York drafted its first market charter. This gave York the right to hold a market in a specific place and upon particular days of the week. York’s market charter remained intact throughout its Viking invasion in 837 AD and the Harrying of the North by the Normans in 1069 and continues today. Market on Parliament Street c.1910*

*Reproduced from an original held by City of York Council/ Explore Libraries and Archives Mutual, York.

visityork.org

Through the years, York became home to many markets for different products scattered around the city. In 1837, a single market site was created on Parliament Street and St Sampson’s Square, staying in this position for 127 years. In 1964, Newgate Market was specially created behind the buildings on Shambles and Parliament Street and remains the site of the market today.

After a refurbishment in 2014 the renamed Shambles Market underwent a transformation. Shambles Market now accommodates 69 covered stalls, an impressive food court and a place for many local and independent businesses to start-up, grow and develop. The Market is a modern retail success story, recently winning awards for Best Outdoor Market, and celebrates its sixtieth anniversary at the Newgate site in 2024.

♦ Open 7 days a week ♦ Find something different every day ♦ Local York traders ♦ Quality homemade and craft items

@visityork

History in the Tasting

Tastings | Experiences | Shop

yorkgin.com/visit

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Store your luggage on Queen Street, adjacent to the long stay car park at York Railway Station, you will see the left luggage office on the right next to Europcar, YO24 1AD. Alternatively you can use Yorbag Left Luggage located at 20 High Petergate, only 90 metres from York Minster.

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York Train Station is a short 10-minute walk from the city centre. For more information on services please visit nationalrail.co.uk.

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Regular bus services run to York from many nearby towns and cities, including Leeds, Selby and Scarborough. Call Bus Info on 01904 551400 or visit itravelyork.info/buses.

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WITH OUR FLEET OF ELECTRIC, ZERO EMISSION BUSES: • Travel there and back with our great value Return ticket • Feel good, go green and help the environment • Hop in and out of York with buses up to every 12 minutes • Get free, secure parking across 6 convenient sites • Relax and recharge with luxury leather seats, Wi-Fi and USB ports onboard

Find the full route maps, including York City Centre stops, on our website yorkparkandride.co.uk. B1363 to Helmsley

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York´s Most Magical Year-Round Christmas Speciality Shop Mulberry Hall • 17 - 19 Stonegate - York

Enjoy our vast variety of handcrafted Christmas decorations, genuine German nutcrackers and much more!

www.kaethe-wohlfahrt.com

SHOPPING

Retail Therapy

York is an ideal shopping location, seamlessly blending history, culture, and contemporary charm with unique boutiques and high street retailers. Create impressive home cooked Indian dishes with a stop at Rafi's Spicebox. Tailored to your taste, they specialise in hand mixing spices for easy to use at home Curry Packs, including seasonal, regional and favourite family recipes. So, pop in and watch them hand blend a Curry Pack just for you! For every occasion, be it a wedding, a day at the races, or just a chilly day out, make your way to The Hat Shop. You'll be spoilt for choice from renowned British hatmakers, alongside international brands. For the ultimate fantastical place, Rookscroft & Co is your stop! You can find portraits of fine creatures painted by artist and author Jayne Siroshton, who has the most magical creative flair bringing lovable characters to life.

Rafi’s Spice Box

Around many of the city walls and bars you’ll find an array of shops including the Monk Bar Model Shop, which is a familyowned independent model shop stocking all you need for your model railway including figures, slot cars, diecast planes and vehicles plus scenic kits and accessories. York's shopping appeal extends beyond the city, with the York Designer Outlet, where you’ll also find Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland every Christmas season. For more out of town shopping try Monks Cross Shopping Park and Vangarde Shopping Park, for even more familiar high street names. visityork.org

Woven with delicate Yorkshire charm in the historic woollen mill Abraham Moon & Sons; discover elegant & luxurious accessories steeped in heritage and history. Open 10am - 5pm | Monday to Saturday | 11am - 4pm | Sunday 33 Stonegate, York, YO1 8AW

No visit to York is complete without discovering what the rest of North Yorkshire has to offer... Start planning your trip now at visitnorthyorkshire.com

The ultimate gift of love 67 Low Petergate, York, YO1 7HY | T: 01904 655235 or 07926 129119 www.bradleysjewellersyork.com | www.ecorocksyork.com | bradleysjewellersyork

City OF Trails DON’T MISS!

Snooks Trail March - April Encounter the loveable Snooks characters on this brand new York trail. These unique sculptures, sponsored by local businesses, have been brought to life by talented artists who will craft bespoke designs. #SnooksTrail

One of the best ways to explore the landmarks and historic cobbles is on foot, led by an expert guide or you can set your own pace with a self-guided walk or trail. Tailor your journey around your own interests, from history and culture to ghostly sightings. Embark on family-friendly trails for an enchanting journey through the city. Choose from a variety, whether it's cat trails, murder mysteries, food adventures, pub explorations, or the annual Ice Trail in February - there's a trail for every taste. For puzzle lovers, try your hand at Go Quest Adventures, an interactive treasure hunt, or CityDays for an immersive urban adventure. As the most haunted city in Europe, York is also blessed with an abundance of spooky and magical tours and walks around the city. @visityork

TOURS & TRAILS

Trailblazers May - September Discover the history, heritage and stories of people who are important to York’s local communities. Taking the form of a Tansy Beetle and designed by local artists, the sculptures will celebrate York’s greatest and lesser-known Trailblazers. #Trailblazers

Follow your sweet tooth and take a mouth-watering wander through the city and discover the history behind York’s chocolate foundation with the York Chocolate Trail. Download the trail at: visityork.org/chocolate

Did you know? When the wind is blowing in the right direction, you can smell the lingering aroma of chocolate being made across the city - giving it the name, The Chocolate City!

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tours

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Haunted York York is a city with a dark past, its history is rife with tales of guts, gore, torture and ghosts. The International Ghost Research Foundation once even declared York as the most haunted city in Europe due to its bloodstained history and reports of over 500 hauntings within the ancient city walls. Numerous haunted pubs hold tales of restless spirits (of the ghostly kind!) and you’ll be amazed at the number of places where ghostly sightings have been reported, and the history of what lurks beneath many of York’s historic buildings. A great way to learn more about the city's spooktacular past is with the Original Ghost Walk of York, telling of eerie apparitions. For an exhilarating indoor adventure, step into The York Dungeon, a thrilling attraction with an amazing

Every Night (excl. Mon & Wed) 6pm & 8pm* (8pm Seasonal) Book Now

cast of theatrical actors, special effects, stages and scenes. See, hear, smell and feel York’s stories come to life as characters transport you through the city’s dark history. For puzzle enthusiasts, embark on the Ghost Quest, an interactive gamebased tour that navigates you through the streets. Immerse yourself in the mind-bending challenge of a walking puzzle game, and the sweet reward awaits as you triumph at the end! Brace yourself for more thrilling journeys with Dark Chronicles, The Bloody Tour of York, Hallowscream, Hallowtween, The Deathly Dark Tours, Ghost Bus Tours, Paranormal Research, York Witches & History Walking Tour and Ghost Trail of York. If you dare!

THE BAR CONVENT Living Heritage Centre

STEP INTO A WORLD OF SECRECY & SP ES... This convent was established in secret in 1686 when Catholicism was illegal. How has it survived against all the odds to become the oldest living convent in the UK? Join us to find out! w: barconvent.co.uk t: 01904 643 238 17 Blossom Street, York, YO24 1AQ

Photography Gareth Buddo and Greg McGee

Escape, Relax and Enjoy the Magic

DREAMERY GARDENS at Northwood

Explore | Discover | Feast | Stay | Celebrate DISCOVER WHAT’S ON dreamerygardens.co.uk

ART & CULTURE

Entertainment for all For 2,000 years, York has been a hub of ideas and creativity, seamlessly blending its renowned heritage with a modern and cutting-edge approach. As the first UNESCO City of Media Arts in the UK and a member of the Creative Cities Network, York's vibrant creative sector is something to celebrate. At the Van Gogh The Immersive Experience, you can discover the 19th-century artistic genius Van Gogh through immersive The Immersive Experience 360-degree digital projections at the architectural splendour of St Mary's Church. The painting collection at the York Art Gallery spans over 600 years, featuring artworks from 14th-century Italian panels and 17th-century Dutch masterpieces to Victorian narratives and 20th-century pieces by LS Lowry and David Hockney. York Art Gallery

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Set in the grounds of St Mary’s Abbey, the galleries at Yorkshire Museum showcase some of Britain’s finest archaeological treasures from the city’s Roman, Viking and medieval past as well as a natural science collection, including Yorkshire’s Jurassic World. York Theatre Royal and Grand Opera House York both offer a diverse programme of big productions to Grand Opera House fringe theatre of dance, opera, musicals and comedy. Explore Theatre@41, a creative hub for emerging professionals, and the Joseph Rowntree Theatre, a community-run venue supporting various shows. Your stage is set! Experience live music at York Barbican, hosting top touring acts nationwide. Immerse yourself in diverse sounds at the National Centre for Early Music (NCEM), offering diverse concerts year-round. Enjoy regular live performances at popular bars like The Hop ensuring York's music scene stays vibrant.

ACCOMMODATION

Stay in York

York offers a wide range of accommodation, from luxury spa hotels to self-catering getaways, giving you an eclectic choice of inviting places to rest your head after a day of exploring. If you’d like to stay right in the bustling city centre, the Impossible Motel on St Helen’s Square is quite possibly York’s most quirky, uber chic and intimate boutique. For a truly luxurious stay, The Grand York is the city’s only five-star hotel, with views of York Minster and the city walls. For those seeking stylish bedrooms and sassy cocktails, head to Malmaison, which has one of only a few roof top restaurants in the city, Sora, serving up spectacular Asian fusion tapas. If you’re seeking an oasis of calm but still near the city centre, Middletons Hotel is nestled in a secluded courtyard garden and within the City Walls where you can also make use of their gym. 41

For a perfect boutique stay, No.1 by GuestHouse is a charmer, boasting a sweeping central staircase, a spa for an oasis of calm and restaurant, Pearly Cow, serving strictly the wildest produce of land and sea. A little further out of the city, Bugthorpe Grange Glamping offers luxury glamping pods, Castle Howard Holiday Cottages offers beautiful self-catered holiday cottages (plus, enjoy complimentary tickets to Castle Howard), and Hoxne Cottages offer luxury holiday cottages with your own private hot tub. For a truly unique experience, enjoy a stay in England's oldest living convent, The Bar Convent. This magnificent Grade I listed building is just around the corner from York train station and well located for many of York's restaurants, shops and attractions. visityork.org

Yorkshire’s most iconic stately home. Delight in magnificent historic interiors, breathtaking Grounds and Gardens, and our award-winning adventure playground.

Tony Cragg Sculpture Exhibition A major exhibition of beautiful sculptures in the House and Gardens by the internationally celebrated artist, 3rd May – 22nd September 2024.

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A place like no other

Castle Howard, York, YO60 7DA 30 minutes from York castlehoward.co.uk

BEYOND YORK

Beyond York

Discover centuries of history and breathtaking landscapes in the North York Moors National Park, just outside York. Explore bustling market towns, picturesque villages, and enjoy a multitude of activities, sights, and flavours in this special place. Whitby Whitby, on the North Yorkshire coast, is a great option for a day trip from York. In Whitby, you won’t just find award-winning fish restaurants, you’ll find Britain’s best boat-builders, maritime musicians, and sea-artists. You can also visit the scenic ruins of Whitby Abbey, as well as taking a stroll on the beach. Pickering Pickering is the gateway to the North York Moors. It’s one of the best places for cycling and walking in Britain, and a great base for exploring the natural beauty of the area.

Sutton Bank 43

Pickering’s historic town centre offers a range of great places for foodies to explore, including the town’s and farmers’ market and the Black Swan, a famous travellers inn for over 300 years. Home to the world-famous North Yorkshire Moors Railway, catch the train from Pickering and ride it to picturesque Goathland, which became Hogsmeade Station in the Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone film. Sutton Bank With the finest view in England, according to the famous local author, James Herriot, Sutton Bank is one of the best places in Yorkshire for a walk, ride or to explore the wonders of the natural world. Sutton Bank National Park is perfect for families, offering purpose-built tracks for bikes and walking, bike hire and repair, outdoor play, regular activities and the chance to enjoy a relaxing cuppa at the Park Life Café. visityork.org

Castle Howard

Whitby Abbey

Howardian Hills National Landscape The Howardian Hills are nestled between the Vale of York and the North York Moors. Here you can discover scenic villages, historic country houses and stunning landscapes. Amongst the special places to visit in the area is Ampleforth Abbey, a haven of peace which is home to a Benedictine community of monks who welcome visitors for services and to explore the stunning lakes and woodland. For garden lovers, try a visit to one of the largest gardens in Northern England, branded Yorkshire’s answer to Kew Gardens. Breezy Knees has over 20 acres of award-winning gardens, packed with more than 10,000 different varieties of flowers, shrubs and trees.

A place like no other, Castle Howard is one of England’s finest historic houses, set in acres of parklands, with statues, temples, lakes and fountains dotted around the landscape. Kids will adore Skelf Island's adventure playground, hidden across the Great Lake. You’ll also find shops, a garden centre and cafés serving local food and drink. The World of James Herriot If you’re a fan of the TV series ‘All Creatures Great and Small’ or ‘The Yorkshire Vet’, a visit to ‘The World of James Herriot’ is a must. See where he lived, worked and wrote his incredibly successful series of books based on his experiences as a young North Yorkshire vet.

For a magical twist, visit the enchanting realm of Dreamery Gardens at Northwood, where the Fairy Sanctuary beckons you. Embark on a captivating fairy trail, immerse yourself in the unique artifacts and enchanting stories within the museum, and savour a delightful dining experience in the heart of the woodlands. Castle Howard

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Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Spend the day exploring Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal, less than an hour from the centre of York. Experience the beauty of the whole estate, discover the spirit of the abbey and wander through the Georgian water gardens. nationaltrust.org.uk/fountainsabbey Social icon

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Everyday escapes, made at

EVENTS CALENDAR

Events & Festivals York has a vibrant calendar of events and festivals – there’s always something exciting going on!Here is just some of the fun you can expect in 2024. For more information, visit our website and remember to sign up to our newsletter for the latest news and special offers. visityork.org/whats-on

Residents’ Festival last weekend of January Ice Trail early February JORVIK Viking Festival February Colour & Light February Snooks Trail - Don’t miss, for 2024 only! March-April

Snooks THOR’S

Trailblazers

York Chocolate Festival Easter weekend Trailblazers - Don’t miss, for 2024 only! May-September York Pride June Thor's - Principal June-September 47

JORVIK Viking Festival visityork.org

York Georgian Festival August

EVENTS CALENDAR

Ghosts in the Gardens September-November York Food and Drink Festival end of September York Fashion Week September-October York Restaurant Week October

Colour & Light at York Minster

Christmas Market November-December Nutcracker Trail November-January Winter Lights November-January Christmas Lights November-December York Early Music Christmas Festival December York Minster Christmas Tree Festival December-January

York Christmas Festival

York Restaurant Week

Ghosts In The Gardens

York Ice Trail

Discover more at visityork.org/whats-on @visityork

Time together made at Beningbrough Spend the day in the countryside, just a short drive from York. Explore the gardens with a new Mediterranean Garden opening in summer. Step inside the historic rooms of the hall, and see the latest exhibition in the first floor art galleries during autumn and winter. nationaltrust.org.uk/beningbrough Social icon

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Discover Explore Share Find out more and book tickets at yorkcastlemuseum.org.uk

Jurassic Roman Viking Medieval Find out more and book tickets at yorkshiremuseum.org.uk York Castle Museum and Yorkshire Museum are part of York Museums Trust. Charity number 1092466.

Photography by Anthony Chappel-Ross.