York Travel Guide - Where To Stay, What To See, What To Eat & More

I posted quite a lot about our trip to York a few months ago but I'm going back to it today as I've finally got round to writing up a proper travel guide. Pretty much as soon as we got back from York in April I've wanted to get this post written and published but I just had too many others to get up first so this had to wait. We had such a brilliant time and in a few days we managed to see so much so I really wanted to put together a little travel guide and I hope if you're planning on going any time in the future that this helps you. I've included hotels in the area, attractions I think are a must, places to eat and I've also covered travel and getting around.

Where To Stay

When it came to choosing a place to stay for our little break in York, we ended up going with The Grand Hotel and Spa. This is Yorks only 5* star hotel and as it was our 'minimoon' we thought we would treat ourselves. It's also just around the corner from the train station too which is so helpful. It was totally worth the money and ended up exceeding any expectations we had. I couldn't recommend this hotel enough if you're visiting York for a special occassion or just want to splash out a little. We stayed in a classic room which is the cheapest they do but it was in no means budget at all, the bed was huge and comfy, the bathroom was extremely luxurious and the staff make it. On the door you'll be greeted and have your bags taken up to your room and from then on in, the staff can't do enough for you. Doors are opened for you, they bring shortbread round at night, just so many little extras which make it so worth the money. If you don't want to spend too much on a hotel, you have many other choices from Premier Inns, Holiday Inns and lots more, all for a really reasonable price and within walking distance of the centre.

What To See

York is an all round beautiful city and there are countless things to see and do there.

York Minster - The most famous attraction in York. This is even more stunning in real life! I was totally in awe of it and it's just by the main shopping streets so not far out at all.

Cliffords Tower - This was brilliant to see up close, and with stunning views from the top, it's well worth going to see. There is also a museum too which you can visit.

The Shambles - One of the things York is famous for. Cobbled streets, wonky houses, cosy tea rooms, it has everything and you could spend hours walking around the whole area. Here you'll also find many Harry Potter shops including the famous Shop That Must Not Be Named.

Merchant Adventurers Hall - This is one of the prettiest buildings and one I really wanted to visit. You can get some beautiful photos here and the gardens around it I imagine would be lovely in Summer.

National Railway Museum - This isn't in the centre but only 10 minutes away from the train station so a good one to visit if you just want a day out. It's full of a variety of trains ranging from classic older ones to more modern ones like the Eurostar. You can sit aboard some of them and it's definitely somewhere to spend a good few hours.

Jorvik Centre - This is a great one if you have kids or just want to learn a bit more about Yorks history. I highly recommend booking online beforehand though as it gets extremely busy.
York Designer Outlet - If you're in the mood for some shopping, the Designer Outlet isn't too far out and has a whole range of shops including Cadbury, Joules, Kipling, Mulberry and so many more.

What To Eat

In York you'll never be stuck for a place to stop for a cup of tea and a little break. York is full of beautiful tea rooms and incredible restaurants.

Bettys Tea Room - A must in York. Two tea rooms to choose from but beware both get very busy and be prepared to queue. From afternoon tea to a spot of lunch, there are a range of delicious meals and treats available. You can also pop in to pick up cakes which is what we did.

Stonegate Teddy Bear Tea Rooms - If you're after a cosy little tea room, this is the one for you. Downstairs is a teddy bear shop and upstairs you'll find a tea room where an array of cakes, milkshakes, hot chocolates, sandwiches and more are on offer.

Cosy Club - If you couldn't tell by the name, this restuarant is super cosy and welcoming, and I highly recommend it. Plenty of deals on throughout the week too.

The York Roast Company - Perfect for a quick pit stop. The yorkshire pudding wraps and pork sandwiches are heaven.

Drakes Fish and Chips - If you love fish and chips like me, Drakes is one to try. The best chips covered in salt and vinegar, YUM. You also have a choice of whether to eat in the restaurant or take away.

Bills - On my list for our next visit. You can find all sorts here from pancakes at breakfast to mezze sharing plates and steak in the evening aswell as a range of amazing desserts.

The Ivy - If you're want a bit more of a fancy meal while you're visiting, you can find The Ivy next to Bettys Tea Rooms!

Travel & Getting Around 

One thing I loved about York was how easy it was to get around. As I mentioned at the start of this post, our hotel was literally around the corner from the train station, and from there on in you're basically never far from anything. I mean it when I say everything is minutes away from one another so walking around from attraction to attraction really isn't an issue. That being said we saw buses constantly so if you want to get public transport to places a bit further out, you'll have no issues with that.

So I think that's just about everything. I've tried to cover as much as possible but let me know if you have any other recommendations of things to do in York or places to eat etc. York really is such an incredible city so I hope if you go, you love it as much as I did!

Similar Posts - Our Minimoon In York // York Haul (Sweets, Harry Potter Shops, Cath Kidston & More)

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