York

Things to do in York

Search attractions or local attractions & tours
Search

Explore top experiences

Top 10 attractions in York

View all Attractions
York Minster
No. 1 of Best Things to Do in York

York Minster

7.8
4.6/5
427 reviews
York Minster is the largest Gothic church in England. Construction began in the early 13th century and was completed 250 years later. The church has the world's largest medieval stained glass and the world's oldest side porch. There are also some small collections inside, such as cherubs and shields from the feudal era. When visiting the church, you can choose the time when York Minster holds evening prayers, and enjoy the magnificent atmosphere of York Minster with the beautiful singing of the choir and the sound of the organ. Walk 275 steps to the top of the 71-meter-high central tower, which offers beautiful views of York. Walking along the city wall from BoothamBar to MonkBar, you can enjoy the majestic view of York Minster.York · 533m from downtown
Shambles
No. 2 of Best Things to Do in York

Shambles

7.2
4.6/5
149 reviews
York's Shambles is one of the best-preserved medieval streets in Europe, dating back to the time of William the Conqueror. It became a hub for butchers in the 15th century, boasting as many as 26 butcher shops at its peak, making it a quintessential York historic street. Characterized by 14th- to 16th-century timber-framed buildings, the street is narrow, sometimes only 1.5 meters wide, with buildings leaning slightly and extremely close together – a fact that, according to local lore, residents could shake hands across the street, showcasing the architectural charm of medieval England. It was also the inspiration for Diagon Alley in Harry Potter, attracting countless fans. Now, shedding its former butchery atmosphere, the street is lined with magic-themed shops, antique stores, and unique boutiques. Visitors can also sample classic dishes like cured meats and Yorkshire ham. The rich historical heritage blends seamlessly with a vibrant modern consumer experience, making it a must-visit landmark in York.York · 462m from downtown
Whitby Abbey
No. 1 of Best Things to Do in Scarborough District

Whitby Abbey

6.2
4.5/5
50 reviews
There are three types of monastic ruins in the world: ordinary monastery ruins, picturesque monastery ruins, and Whitby Abbey. Whitby Abbey is located on the East Cliff of Whitby, a small seaside town in North Yorkshire, England. The silhouette standing on the skyline is like a huge Gothic tombstone. This ancient and sacred building was built between the 11th and 14th centuries and is located in the center of the town overlooking the entire town. To get here, you need to step on the famous 199 steps up the side of the cliff. As you climb the steps up Whitby Abbey, you're bound to pass the equally spectacular St Mary's Church and its terrifying burial grounds, the latter a favourite for goth couples when they're in love. Whitby Abbey is more like a majestic movie location than a religious building. It's not hard to imagine why this colossal medieval building inspired the Victorian novelist Bram Stoker to make it the domain of Count Dracula during his holiday in Whitby, famous for writing about it. The vampire novel Dracula. The source of inspiration for the novel is Whitby Abbey, and the story scenes of this literary work also take place in the small town of Whitby.Scarborough District · 66 km from York
Clifford's Tower, York
No. 4 of Best Things to Do in York

Clifford's Tower, York

6
4.1/5
93 reviews
Perched high above a small hill, Clifford's Tower is one of the few remaining remains of York Castle. Also known as the Tower of Bleeding, the tower was a Jewish burial place at the end of the 12th century and has long been haunted by ghost stories. Clifford's Tower was built according to the appearance of the castle left by the ancient Romans, so both the arches and the cloisters are somewhat similar to the Colosseum. The tower was used as a fortification and later as a prison and mint. It is currently used as a monument for tourists to visit. Climb to the top of the tower through the narrow spiral tower ladder, from where you can enjoy a beautiful panoramic view of York.York · 737m from downtown
York City Walls
No. 10 of Best Things to Do in Northern England

York City Walls

5.9
4.7/5
173 reviews
York City Walls are a 5 km long square wall built by the Romans as a barrier against foreign enemies. You can see these walls as soon as you enter the city from the train station. The walls center around York Minster, and it takes about 2 hours to walk the full circuit. In York, the gatehouses are called "Bar". Entrances to the walls include Bootham Bar to the north, Micklegate Bar to the southwest, Monk Bar to the northeast, and Walmgate Bar to the southeast. Visitors can walk just a short section, such as from Bootham Bar to Monk Bar near York Minster, and enjoy the view of York Minster along the way.York · 242m from downtown
York Castle Museum
No. 8 of Best Things to Do in York

York Castle Museum

4.5
4.8/5
43 reviews
York Castle Museum is located in the southeast of York Castle, converted from a former prison. Although it is called the Castle Museum, the exhibition content is very extensive. Each themed exhibition area provides different historical life records and collection displays. The museum houses daily objects from the past 400 years, including old TV sets, radios, washing machines and vacuum cleaners. It also introduces the life of the Yorkers from 1580 to 1980, including Victorian and Edwardian style street scenes and houses. Visitors can also visit the prison where the well-known thief Dick Tambing was held, or enter an Edwardian-era popular pub. Life-size old streets with bakeries, banks, bars, and tailors create a sense of time staggering.York · 746m from downtown
Castle Howard
No. 1 of Best Things to Do in Ryedale District

Castle Howard

6.5
4.8/5
156 reviews
Castle Howard is about 24 kilometers northeast of York City, and is owned and lived by the Howard family for generations. This huge mansion is decorated with paintings of many famous people. The castle is surrounded by rolling hills, rose gardens, RayWood forest gardens and cylindrical mausoleums. Its gorgeous and elegant shape is not inferior to Windsor Castle. Influenced by the well-known novel "Brideshead Revisited" (the original novel of "After the Wind and Rain"), people have a deep impression of the historic Howard Castle. In summer, concerts are also held in the courtyard, attracting a large number of local residents and tourists every time.Henderskelfe · 20.9 km from York
River Ouse

River Ouse

3.6
4.0/5
22 reviews
The River Ouse is located in North Yorkshire, England. It is the sixth longest river in the United Kingdom along with the Hungry River in the same county, with a total length of 84 kilometers. It divides York into east and west, with the main part on the east. The most concentrated place for Yorkers is the River Us, especially after 3:00 pm, people gather by the river in twos and threes. There are tables and chairs placed by the restaurant on the riverside. Everyone buys beer and sits by the river to drink. Some people even pull their suitcases and come directly to the river to bask in the sun.York · 14 km from downtown
CitySightseeing York

CitySightseeing York

3.2
5.0/5
1 reviews
In York, a historic city in northern England, City Sightseeing York offers visitors a time-travelling experience. This iconic sightseeing bus, with its unique route and convenient transportation, takes visitors to explore every corner of the city. Taking City Sightseeing York, you can easily visit many places of interest in York. From the magnificent York Minster to the ruins of the ancient city walls to the medieval streets full of stories, each attraction carries York's profound historical heritage. The professional Guide on the bus will Guide the historical background and cultural stories of each attraction in detail, so that you can not only enjoy the beautiful scenery, but also deeply understand the cultural connotation of the city. In addition to its rich historical sites, York also attracts countless tourists with its unique customs and food. During the sightseeing, you can taste authentic English Afternoon Tea and experience the leisurely life of York people. At the same time, York's markets and shops are also a paradise for shopping enthusiasts, where you can find a variety of exquisite handicrafts and Souvenir. City Sightseeing York has become a must-see way for tourists to explore York with its convenient and comprehensive services. Whether you are a history lover or a food and shopping seeker, you can find your own fun and gains here.York · 826m from downtown
The Web Adventure Park

The Web Adventure Park

3.2
3.0/5
3 reviews
TheWebAdventurePark is an extended type of amusement park. The recreational facilities in the park are perfect and the management is standardized, which is very suitable for parent-child amusement and group building.Wigginton · 2.3 km from downtown

Experiences you can't miss in York

Featured Cultural experiences in York

View all Cultural experiences
City Sightseeing York Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
󱌍
4.5/5
· 258 reviews
Free cancellation
Book now for today
FromAED 84.08
Chocolate Bar Making Workshop at York Cocoa Works
󱌍
4.5/5
· 74 reviews
Duration: 75 mins
English
Free cancellation
Book now for today
FromAED 123.86
Hooting Owl Distillery York - Distillery Tour & Gin Tasting
󱌍
Duration: 75 mins
English
Free cancellation
Book now for today
FromAED 178.44
York Audio Tour: Bishophill Echoes-Minsters, Markets & Mysteries
󱌍
Duration: 1.5 hrs
English
Free cancellation
Book now for today
20% off
Limited-time sale
FromAED 26.62AED 33.28
Top York: Private guided tour with your mobile
󱌍
Duration: 30 mins
English
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
Book now for today
FromAED 20.83
Original Harry Potter Locations Tour : Guided Tour of York
󱌍
4.7/5
· 333 reviews
Duration: 2 hrs
Free cancellation
Book now for tomorrow
93.7% of travelers recommend
FromAED 76.84
York: "All Creatures Great and Small" Yorkshire Dales Tour
󱌍
4.9/5
· 176 reviews
Duration: 8.5 hrs
Free cancellation
98.3% of travelers recommend
5% off
Limited-time sale
FromAED 373.90AED 393.58

Featured Day tours in York

View all Day tours
Ghost Bus Tour of York
󱌍
4.5/5
· 625 reviews· 36 booked
Duration: 60–75 mins
English
Free cancellation
Book now for today
FromAED 99.14
Fun, Flexible Treasure Hunt Around York with Cryptic Clues & Hidden Gems
󱌍
4.9/5
· 94 reviews
Duration: 2 hrs
English
Free cancellation
Book now for today
94 consecutive positive reviews
FromAED 74.35
Travel Curious - Private Walking Tour of York
󱌍
Duration: 24 hrs
English
Free cancellation
Book now for tomorrow
FromAED 2,127.14
Day Tour from York, UK: North York Moors National Park + Whitby Town
󱌍
5.0/5
· 1 review
Duration: 7.3 hrs
English
Book now for tomorrow
FromAED 584.00
Round-trip from Manchester/York + Lake District National Park + Hawkshead (Chinese/English private charter optional)
󱌍
FromAED 2,239.96

Featured Outdoor experiences in York

View all Outdoor experiences
The Yorkshire Dales Tour from York
󱌍
4.8/5
· 92 reviews
Duration: 8.5 hrs
Free cancellation
43 consecutive positive reviews
5% off
Limited-time sale
FromAED 373.58AED 393.25
Moors, Whitby & The Yorkshire Steam Railway Day Trip from York
󱌍
4.8/5
· 152 reviews
Duration: 495 mins
Free cancellation
97.4% of travelers recommend
FromAED 386.32
North York Moors and Whitby Day Tour from York
󱌍
4.9/5
· 254 reviews
Duration: 8 hrs
Free cancellation
96.9% of travelers recommend
FromAED 277.53
From York: Day Trip to Whitby and The North York Moors
󱌍
5.0/5
· 33 reviews
Duration: 8.5 hrs
Free cancellation
33 consecutive positive reviews
5% off
Limited-time sale
FromAED 272.09AED 286.42
From York: North Moors and Whitby Tour
󱌍
4.9/5
· 368 reviews
Duration: 8.5 hrs
Free cancellation
98.4% of travelers recommend
5% off
Limited-time sale
FromAED 262.87AED 276.71
From York: Full-Day Yorkshire Dales Tour
󱌍
4.9/5
· 39 reviews
Duration: 8.5 hrs
Free cancellation
97.4% of travelers recommend
5% off
Limited-time sale
FromAED 272.37AED 286.71
From York: North York Moors, Steam Train & Whitby Day Trip
󱌍
5.0/5
· 4 reviews
Duration: 8 hrs
Free cancellation
5% off
Limited-time sale
FromAED 412.24AED 433.94

Featured Food & drink in York

View all Food & drink
York: Introduction to Chocolate Making Experience
󱌍
Duration: 2.5 hrs
English
Free cancellation
5% off
Limited-time sale
FromAED 301.10AED 316.95
York Historical Gems Tour & A Taste of York Chocolate
󱌍
4.9/5
· 30 reviews
Duration: 70–75 mins
Free cancellation
Book now for tomorrow
30 consecutive positive reviews
FromAED 84.26
York: Chocolate Bar Making Workshop at York Cocoa Works
󱌍
4.9/5
· 162 reviews
Duration: 1 hr
Free cancellation
Book now for today
100 consecutive positive reviews
5% off
Limited-time sale
FromAED 122.34AED 128.78
York: Villainous History & Rum Tasting Experience
󱌍
5.0/5
· 1 review
Duration: 30 mins
Free cancellation
Book now for today
5% off
Limited-time sale
FromAED 115.81AED 121.91
York: Gin Tasting Experience at York Distillery
󱌍
5.0/5
· 2 reviews
Duration: 1.5 hrs
Free cancellation
5% off
Limited-time sale
FromAED 185.28AED 195.04
York: Fish and Chips Cruise
󱌍
4.4/5
· 10 reviews
Duration: 45 mins
Free cancellation
Book now for today
5% off
Limited-time sale
FromAED 134.33AED 141.4
York: Historical Gems Tour & A Taste of York Chocolate
󱌍
4.9/5
· 69 reviews
Duration: 75 mins
Free cancellation
Book now for tomorrow
69 consecutive positive reviews
5% off
Limited-time sale
FromAED 78.46AED 82.59

Free things to do in York

More ways to travel from York

Private Tours in York

View More Private Tours in York

What travelers say about York

user-avatar
随风入梦喵26 February 2026
5.0
Well worth a visit. The exterior features a newly built sculpture of Queen Elizabeth, while the interior boasts a distinctive collection of sculptures of past British monarchs. Admission is free for those under 17, and guided tours are available at set times. The stained-glass windows are beautiful. After your visit, you can stroll along the ancient city walls, which are both historically poignant and interwoven with the daily lives of local residents – a truly unique experience.

York Minster

user-avatar
도저언25 May 2023
5.0
I heard that Shambles Street is a good place to visit, and when I actually went there, there were a lot of shops to visit, so it was nice! I heard that it is famous for its ghost shops, but there was a long line in front, so I couldn't go in.

Shambles

user-avatar
suifeng201913 April 2020
4.0
The ruins of the monastery stand alone on the cliff. When Bram Stoker saw it, it must have been in such a dilapidated state, gazing at the northern coastline. The towering columns and famous rib arches are majestic and profound, silently telling us what happened in the past.

Whitby Abbey

user-avatar
Elbik10 January 2025
5.0
My first time visiting this tower ,all the staff was extremely friendly and helpful .We really enjoyed visiting this beautiful piece of history and we adore york. Was so happy to know it is english heritage so everytime we go somewhere we try and make use out of our membership.Was a wonderful structure been made for the stairs nice and strong. We enjoyed the roof top being able to have a clear 360 view was magnificent well worth all the climbing up both stairs .

Clifford's Tower, York

user-avatar
Chloe Yuen18 May 2023
5.0
There is a round arched entrance at the city gate that says York Wall 🏰 Entrance, there is no charge. The city wall is centered on York Cathedral ⛪️, we spent about 1 hour around the city wall, and after going up to the end to walk back down, requires a little physical strength 💪🏻, if there are young children with you have to think Clear. The road along the city wall is slightly narrow. If you are facing someone, you have to give way before you can continue🥲. But the view from the city wall is beautiful✨, looking inside is more beautiful like a fairy tale🌷. The walls of York, which have existed since Roman times, are still quite intact.

York City Walls

user-avatar
RebekkaGladwin8711 May 2025
5.0
top day , top attraction we loved it , even has quite room for overwhelmed children etc it's fab ,staff fab 👌

York Castle Museum

user-avatar
118***079 July 2025
5.0
It is a very worthwhile place to visit. The building itself and the collections are extremely low-key and luxurious. A family has accumulated wealth and art over several generations. The true aristocratic cultivation is really cultivated from childhood.

Castle Howard

user-avatar
小鱼儿20151 December 2019
4.0
The River Ouse is a very special river here. This river is also quite interesting. The River Ouse is also a very long river. Some boats can be transported on the River Ouse here, and there are several small bridges that are also quite interesting.

River Ouse

user-avatar
Stuart Ayris31 July 2026
5.0
The bus was on time and very smart. The tour guide, Steve, was personable, knowledgeable and humourous, really adding to the experience. Really interesting tour that gives you a great taster of a fascinating city.

CitySightseeing York

user-avatar
M43***628 December 2020
3.0
We loved our visit, inside spotless & quiet. Everything good...except for the haunted house....I am not one to complain and my child loves scary spooky things but this haunted house (at a soft play not just a fair!) featured a man hanging, a woman with her guts hanging out & a man screaming in an electric chair. Not the spooky vampires, ghosts & monsters I’d prepared for! Definitely not suitable for the children that are attending.

The Web Adventure Park

Popular cities near York

Frequently asked questions

What are the must-do things in York?

Don't miss these attractions in York: York Minster, Shambles, and Whitby Abbey. If you like Cultural experiences, try City Sightseeing York Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour. If you enjoy Day tours, try Ghost Bus Tour of York.

You can give Chocolate Bar Making Workshop at York Cocoa Works and York: Introduction to Chocolate Making Experience a try. Before you go, please check their opening hours and menus online. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

When choosing a tour, start with how much time you have and the kind of experience you're looking for. Trending options right now include Ghost Bus Tour of York, Fun, Flexible Treasure Hunt Around York with Cryptic Clues & Hidden Gems, and Travel Curious - Private Walking Tour of York. Check the real-time availability and itinerary before you book.

As of 1 October 2026, the reference price for day tours and activities in York is around AED 74.35 – AED 2,532.13. Rates vary by duration, group size, transportation, tickets, meals, and any special admission requirements. Before you book, please confirm the billing currency and whether the price is quoted per person or per group.

Get help anytime, anywhere within 30 secondsContact customer support

Change and cancellation policies vary by attractions and tours. Please check the product details page for more information.

Ticket prices may vary between weekdays and weekends, as well as during peak and off-peak seasons. When booking with Trip.com, you can also use Trip Coins to get extra savings. For more tips on booking discounted tickets, please visit Trip.com for the latest information.