A York city break means atmospheric tea rooms and old pubs, winding medieval lanes and miles of preserved stone walls. Book a York hotel for rewarding museums, diverse shopping and a taste of hearty local specialities.Majestic York Minster, one of Europe’s largest Gothic cathedrals, dominates the city of York. Rich treasures of the former capital of northern England are preserved in the Yorkshire Museum. In quaint medieval streets and alleys (known as snickleways), you’ll find centuries-old pubs serving local ales. A walkway follows the massive, part-Roman City Walls around the city – head up to medieval Clifford’s Tower for a great view.
Wander the bustling shopping areas of Davygate and Coppergate or atmospheric lanes like the Shambles. Here, you’ll find independent fashion stores, traditional high-quality outfitters, vintage clothes and hand-crafted souvenirs. For department stores, choose between top names like Fenwicks or local classics like Browns. At the daily market, over 100 stalls offer produce, flowers, crafts and fashion bargains. Unwind with a sumptuous afternoon tea at Betty’s – and buy their classic Yorkshire treats to take back to your York hotel.
A York city break makes a great family trip. Jorvik Viking Centre offers a fun time machine trip through a recreated Viking York. At the National Railway Museum, legendary locomotives are immaculately preserved – along with Queen Victoria’s personal railway carriage. York Castle Museum gives children glimpses of how mum and dad grew up, with its typical house interiors from different decades. In the evening, enjoy a lively family show at the Theatre Royal.
