Things to do in York
Mar 14, 2025
York, a city with SO much history, is a hub for tourists and locals alike finding the best things to do. If you're searching for things to do in York, you've come to the right place. From medieval streets to world-class museums and ancient walls, York's attractions are full of history and life. We're experts at guiding, so we'll show you the must-see sights and hidden gems, helping you plan the perfect York itinerary.
Whether you're a history enthusiast, a foodie, or looking for activities to do on your city break, discover the best things to do in York and make your visit unforgettable.
A food tour in York with Indie Food Tours
Uncover York's hidden culinary gems on a self-guided food tour, tasting the best kept local secrets at your own pace.
Using our app, you’ll follow a map to each stop, with exquisite flavours and fascinating facts included every step of the way. Ideal for the independent explorer, our self-guided tours allow you to curate your own foodie adventure and discover the most delicious spots at your own pace!
Perfect for: Locals and tourists alike!
Explore The Shambles
A trip to York isn't complete without wandering down The Shambles, a perfectly preserved medieval street. This iconic attraction, a must-see for any York visitor, offers a glimpse into the city's long history.
Overhanging timber-framed buildings, cobbled streets, The Shambles provides fantastic photo opportunities and is rumoured to be the inspiration behind the famous Diagon Alley in Harry Potter.
Explore the charming shops, many of which are independent, and soak in the history, whilst watching out for those pesky cobbles!
As a top thing to do in York, The Shambles connects you to the past, getting a feel for what life was like in Medieval york. For those seeking things to do in York, this famous street should be at the top of your list.
Visit the National Railway Museum
Celebrating 50 years, The National Railway Museum is open seven days a week, allowing you to explore the past, present and future of railways. The museum is one of York's wonderful free admission activities, ideal for all ages, making it accessible and a great thing to do whilst in York.
Home to iconic locomotives and beautiful rail collections, you'll be able to view world-changing inventions like the Japanese bullet train and see the world's fastest steam train, Mallard.
Discover the impact of railways on Britain in the heart of York, known for its central position on the UK rail network.
Visit the National Railway Museum.
Climb the stairs at York Minster
The highest point in York, offering panoramic views of the city, York Minster's central tower is a popular tourist attraction offering unbeatable views of York and beyond.
General admission tickets to the Minster include a free tour of the cathedral where you'll learn stories and facts about its 800-year history.
If you're looking to climb the iconic tower, trips can be booked on the day whilst visiting the Minster.
Walk around York City Walls
An elevated circular route around the city, this free activity is the perfect thing to do in York on a budget, whilst seeing its landmarks and experiencing York's history.
As you walk you'll see significant remains of all periods these walls have seen, over 2000 years of history and change in York, the walls were once built to protect the city, by the Romans, to protect themselves from the Scots and then later to control traffic.
Eat at The Shambles Markets
Your ultimate destination for a range of foodie and shopping needs, we absolutely love strolling into the Shambles Food Court for a bite to eat when perusing around the city.
With Thai, epic sandwiches, fresh bagels and more, it's a great place at lunchtime to try a bit of everything from each of the vendors.
