York is a city that truly has something for everyone. Whether you are interested in history, architecture, or simply enjoying the charm of a quaint English town, York has it all. With its cobbled streets, stunning buildings, and rich culture, it’s no wonder that York is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. But with so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to plan your trip. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you navigate through the best things to do in York by month.
January: Embrace the Festive Spirit
January may be a cold and dark month, but in York, it is also a time for celebration and merriment. Here are some of the top things to do in York during the first month of the year:
Go Ice Skating at York’s National Railway Museum
For a fun and festive activity, head to the National Railway Museum in York and go ice skating on their outdoor rink. This is a great activity for all ages and a perfect way to get into the holiday spirit. Afterward, you can warm up with a hot chocolate at the museum’s cafe and explore their impressive collection of trains and railway artifacts.
Visit the Jorvik Viking Centre
York has a rich history, and one of the best places to learn about it is at the Jorvik Viking Centre. This museum is home to the remains of a Viking settlement that was discovered in York in the 1970s. You can take a ride through a reconstructed Viking village and see how the Vikings lived, as well as view artifacts and interactive displays. It’s a great way to step back in time and learn about this fascinating period in York’s history.
Take a Ghost Tour of York
York is known for its haunted past, and what better way to learn about it than by taking a ghost tour? There are several companies that offer guided tours around the city, sharing spooky stories and legends along the way. You’ll visit some of the most haunted places in York and learn about the city’s dark and eerie history. It’s a unique and entertaining way to explore the city at night.
Visit the York Chocolate Story
York Chocolate Story, where you can learn all about the history of chocolate making in York
Did you know that York has a rich history of chocolate making? The city was once home to some of the biggest names in the chocolate industry, such as Rowntree’s and Terry’s. At the York Chocolate Story, you can learn all about the history of chocolate making in York, from the cocoa bean to the finished product. You can even try your hand at making your own chocolate bar. It’s a must-visit for any chocolate lover.
Climb Clifford’s Tower
For stunning views of the city, make your way to Clifford’s Tower. This Norman tower stands tall above the city and offers panoramic views of York and its surroundings. You can climb to the top of the tower and take in the breathtaking sights, or simply admire it from the ground. Either way, it’s a must-see attraction in York.
February: Embrace the Outdoors
As winter starts to fade away, February is a great time to get outdoors and explore all that York has to offer. Here are some top things to do in Yorkshire in February:
Visit Rowntree Park
Located on the banks of the River Ouse, Rowntree Park is a beautiful green space in the heart of York. It features a lake, a cafe, and a children’s play area, making it a perfect spot for a family day out. You can take a leisurely walk around the park, have a picnic, or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Take a Walk in York Museum Gardens
If you’re a fan of history and nature, then a visit to the York Museum Gardens is a must. These gardens are home to a number of historical buildings, including St. Mary’s Abbey, which was once one of the wealthiest Benedictine monasteries in England. You can also find a variety of plants, trees, and flowers here, making it a lovely place to take a stroll and escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
York Museum Gardens for one loves nature
See a Show at the York Theatre Royal
For a dose of culture, head to the York Theatre Royal and catch a show. This historic theatre has been entertaining audiences since 1744 and offers a diverse range of performances, from classic plays to contemporary productions. It’s a great way to spend an evening in York and support the local arts scene.
March: Springtime in York
As the weather starts to warm up, March is a great time to visit York and experience the city in bloom. Here are some top things to do in Yorkshire in march:
Explore the York City Centre
With its charming streets and picturesque buildings, the York city centre is a delight to explore on foot. You can wander through the Shambles, one of the oldest streets in York, and admire the timber-framed buildings that line it. You can also visit the York Minster, one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Europe, and take a tour of its stunning interior.
Take a Boat Tour on the River Ouse
For a unique perspective of the city, hop on a boat tour on the River Ouse. These tours depart from the King’s Staith Landing and take you along the river, passing by some of York’s most iconic landmarks. You can sit back, relax, and enjoy the sights while learning about the city’s history from your knowledgeable guide.
Visit the Yorkshire Museum
Yorkshire Museum is a must-visit for history buffs
Located in the beautiful Museum Gardens, the Yorkshire Museum is a must-visit for history buffs. It houses collections that span over 500,000 years of history, including Roman and Viking artifacts, as well as natural history exhibits. You can easily spend a few hours here, immersing yourself in the fascinating history of the region.
April: Blooming Gardens and Spring Festivals
As spring is in full swing, April is a great time to visit York and experience its blooming gardens and lively festivals. Here are some top things to do in York during this month:
Admire the Cherry Blossoms at Rowntree Park
If you missed the cherry blossoms in Japan, don’t worry, you can still catch them in York! Head to Rowntree Park in April and marvel at the beautiful pink blooms that cover the trees. It’s a sight not to be missed and a perfect spot for a springtime picnic.
Attend the York Chocolate Festival
Calling all chocolate lovers! The York Chocolate Festival takes place every year in April and celebrates all things chocolate. You can find a variety of chocolate-themed events, workshops, and tastings around the city, as well as a market where you can purchase delicious treats to take home.
Visit the York Maze
For a fun day out with the family, make your way to the York Maze. This giant maze is created from over one million maize plants and offers a challenging and entertaining experience for all ages. You can also find other attractions here, such as a mini-golf course, a petting zoo, and a giant inflatable pillow for bouncing.
May: Enjoy the Outdoors in York
As the weather continues to warm up, May is a great time to enjoy the outdoors in York. Here are some top things to do in York during this month:
Take a Bike Tour of the City
One of the best ways to see the city is by taking a bike tour. You can rent a bike from one of the many rental shops in York and explore the city at your own pace. There are also guided bike tours available, which will take you to some of the top sights in York while providing interesting commentary along the way.
Have a Picnic at the Museum Gardens
The Museum Gardens are not only a great place to visit for their historical buildings, but they also make a lovely spot for a picnic. You can bring your own food or grab something from one of the nearby cafes and enjoy a relaxing afternoon surrounded by nature.
June: Indulge in Local Delicacies at the York Festival
One of the best things to do in Yorkshire in june is joining the York Food and drink Festival. Foodies rejoice – the York Food and Drink Festival takes place every June and is a celebration of all things culinary. This 10-day event showcases the best of Yorkshire’s food and drink scene, with a variety of stalls, demonstrations, and tastings. Whether you’re a fan of traditional British fare or international cuisine, there is something for everyone at this mouth-watering festival.
The York Food and Drink Festival is a must-visit for anyone who loves good food and drinks.
What to Expect at the York Food and Drink Festival
The festival takes place in the heart of the city, with stalls set up along Parliament Street and St Sampson’s Square. Here you can sample local delicacies such as Yorkshire pudding wraps, artisan cheeses, and freshly baked bread, as well as international dishes from countries like Italy, India, and Thailand.
Aside from the food stalls, there are also cooking demonstrations by renowned chefs, talks and workshops on topics such as wine pairing and cheese making, and live music to keep you entertained while you eat. There is even a children’s area where little ones can learn about food and participate in fun activities.
Conclusion
No matter what time of year you visit York, there is always something to do and see. From festive activities in the winter to outdoor adventures in the spring and summer, this city has it all. We hope this guide has given you some inspiration for your next trip to York and helped you plan your itinerary according to the month of your visit. So pack your bags and get ready to explore all that this charming English city has to offer.
