Top reasons to visit York
- Iconic Landmarks: Visit the stunning York Minster and historic York Castle, both showcasing the city's rich history.
- Engaging Museums: Explore the Yorkshire Museum for immersive exhibits that delve into York's cultural heritage.
- Charming Streets: Wander through cobbled streets filled with quaint cafés and unique shops, offering a delightful atmosphere.
- Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy the picturesque Yorkshire countryside, perfect for family outings and romantic strolls.
- Diverse Accommodation: Choose from a range of lodgings, catering to various needs, including pet-friendly and LGBTQIA-friendly options.
Find great hotels in York
Discover a charming selection of accommodations in York, where a variety of hotels and lodges await to cater to every traveller's needs. Whether you're seeking pet-friendly options, LGBTQIA-friendly environments, or facilities for business travel, York's hotels offer a delightful stay in this historic city. Explore the renowned Middletons Hotel and other inviting lodgings for a memorable vacation experience.
- The Grand, York: This luxurious 5-star hotel offers an exceptional eco-certified experience, ideal for those seeking relaxation and indulgence. With a remarkable guest rating of 9.6, The Grand features a full spa that includes an indoor heated pool, treatment rooms for massages and body scrubs, and hot stone massages designed to rejuvenate the senses. Situated within York, it combines modern luxury with eco-friendly practices, making it an attractive choice for environmentally conscious travellers looking to unwind in a sumptuous setting.
- Hampton by Hilton York: A family-friendly 3-star hotel, Hampton by Hilton York boasts a guest rating of 9.0 and a prime location in the city centre. Ideal for those travelling with children, the hotel offers free cribs and other amenities tailored for families. With its welcoming atmosphere and central position, guests appreciate the easy access to York’s attractions, making it a convenient base for exploring the city’s rich history and vibrant culture.
- Radisson Hotel York: This eco-certified 3.5-star hotel is well-suited for business travellers and offers a guest rating of 8.6. Located conveniently in York, Radisson Hotel combines professional facilities with a commitment to sustainability. Guests can enjoy comfortable accommodations and have access to modern amenities that support efficient business travel. Its strategic location provides easy access to local attractions, allowing for a balanced stay between work and leisure.
Where to stay in York
York offers a delightful blend of history and hospitality, perfect for a memorable getaway. Stroll through the charming city centre, where cobbled streets lead to ancient landmarks and inviting cafés. Nearby, explore the picturesque Yorkshire countryside, ideal for family-friendly excursions and romantic retreats. Embrace the warm atmosphere of friendly locals and indulge in the region's rich heritage, making your visit to York an unforgettable experience.
- Helmsley: Nestled in the stunning North York Moors National Park, Helmsley is a picturesque village known for its charming streets and historical landmarks. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking and golfing, amidst breathtaking scenery. The village's key attractions include the historic Helmsley Castle and the nearby Ryedale Folk Museum, which provides a glimpse into local history. With a steady influx of travellers throughout the year, Helmsley is particularly popular during the spring and summer months, making it an ideal spot for those looking to embrace nature and adventure.
- Pocklington: Located to the east of York, Pocklington is a delightful market town that offers both outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. Known for its scenic landscapes, visitors can engage in a range of activities such as golfing or exploring the surrounding national parks. Pocklington’s main attractions include the historic All Saints Church and the nearby Wolds Way, perfect for walkers and cyclists. The village welcomes guests year-round, with peak visitation in spring and summer, making it a fantastic base for exploring the beautiful Yorkshire countryside.
- Boroughbridge: A quaint village steeped in history, Boroughbridge is situated along the River Ure, offering stunning riverside walks and an array of outdoor pursuits. With its charming atmosphere, visitors can indulge in recreational activities, spa treatments, and local cuisine. Historical sites such as the Roman Fort and the nearby Knaresborough Castle add to the area's allure. Travellers flock to Boroughbridge particularly in spring and summer, making it an inviting destination for those seeking adventure and relaxation amid beautiful scenery.
Things to do in York
Shopping
In York, visit the Coppergate Centre for high street brands and local shops. If you're up for a drive, head to the Monks Cross Shopping Park, which features a range of retail outlets and eateries, perfect for a leisurely day of shopping.
Recreation
Yoga in York offers calming classes in scenic locations, allowing you to unwind amid historic surroundings. For a rejuvenating experience, visit the York Spa, where you can indulge in soothing treatments and wellness therapies designed to refresh both body and mind.
Adventure
Tockwith Motor Sports Centre offers an exhilarating motor racing experience, where adrenaline junkies can enjoy high-speed thrills on a professional track. Located in the York area, this venue provides an exciting environment filled with sports energy and adventure vibes for motorsport enthusiasts.
Nightlife
In York, the vibrant nightlife features venues like the lively The Basement, known for its eclectic music events, and the atmospheric Evil Eye, where you can enjoy creative cocktails. The city also boasts traditional pubs such as The Kings Arms, offering a cosy spot to unwind after a day of exploring.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for York
York is a wonderful destination for budget-conscious travellers, offering numerous free attractions such as York Minster, The Shambles, and the historic city walls. To save on accommodation, consider visiting between January and March, when prices are lower, and booking a month in advance for the best deals. Mondays are typically the cheapest days to stay. Utilise Expedia's search tool to find affordable hotels and explore package deals that combine flights and activities for additional savings. Lastly, opt for walking or taking the bus to navigate the city economically.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in York are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July to August and December, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in York is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in York is Monday. The most expensive day to stay in York is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can organise your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you find the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
- Consider bundling your trip: Consider saving money by combining your hotel stay in York with your flights and activities through an Expedia package. This could be a cost-effective option for your travel plans.
Find the best attractions in York
York is an exceptional destination for outdoor adventures and cultural exploration, boasting a rich history and stunning scenery. Key attractions include the iconic York Minster, the historic York Castle, and the engaging Yorkshire Museum. For a unique experience, consider visiting the York Racecourse or the charming York House. This vibrant city caters to families and culture enthusiasts alike, ensuring a memorable visit filled with diverse activities.
- York Minster: This magnificent cathedral is a stunning example of Gothic architecture, renowned for its intricate stained glass windows and towering spires. Visitors can explore its vast interior, marvel at the historical artefacts, and even ascend the tower for panoramic views of the city.
- Shambles: A picturesque medieval street, Shambles is famous for its overhanging timber-framed buildings and cobbled paths. It offers a charming atmosphere with quaint shops, cosy cafés, and a rich history, making it a delightful spot for leisurely exploration.
- Castle Howard: This splendid stately home, surrounded by breathtaking gardens, exudes romance and culture. Visitors can wander through its opulent rooms, admire the art collections, and enjoy the tranquil landscape, ideal for a leisurely day out.
Best time to go to York
The best time to visit York can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in York falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature in York falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to York
Flying into York can be done via several major airports. MANchester Airport (MAN) is situated 103km away, with nearby luxury hotels such as Kimpton Clocktower, Edwardian Manchester, and Oddfellows on the Park, all within 13km. Birmingham Airport (BHX), located 174km from York, offers options like Hampton Manor, Genting Hotel & Spa, and Forest of Arden Hotel, all easily accessible. Newcastle International Airport (NCL) is 127km away, with quality accommodations including Delta Hotels by Marriott, Copthorne Hotel, and Maldron Hotel, all just 10km from the airport. Each airport provides convenient transport links to their respective hotels, making travel seamless.