York

York at a glance

Like stepping back into the middle ages, the overhanging timber-framed houses and traditional shopfronts of The Shambles makes it one of the UK’s most historic (and picturesque) streets.

You can’t miss York Minster, one of the largest cathedrals in Northern Europe and also one of the most beautiful gothic cathedrals in the world.

York – then called Jorvik – was once the capital of a Viking territory. You can head back in time to learn more and experience the sights, sounds and smells of the time at the immersive Jorvik Viking Centre.

Uncover 300 years of railway history, climb aboard restored locomotives and browse some of the 1 million train-related artefacts at the National Railway Museum.

The surrounding area is packed with unique attractions. Explore Castle Howard, one of England’s most impressive stately homes, or marvel at the weird and wonderful Brimham Rocks, an amazing collection of wind-weathered rock formations.

You can reach York from London by train in 2 hours. Or from the city of Leeds, it is just a 20-minute train ride.

Betty's Cafe Tea Rooms in York, North Yorkshire.

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A place of extraordinary cultural wealth, visit York and you’ll discover a beautifully preserved medieval city that’s a must for history buffs. Step 2,000 years into the past as you wander the Gothic halls of York Minster Cathedral, delve into the city’s Viking past at the annual Jorvik Viking Festival, or explore history of a different kind at the National Railway Museum. Trace the footsteps of William the Conquerer and enjoy mesmerising views from Clifford’s Tower, or dip into the eclectic array of independent boutiques nestled in the postcard-pretty 13th century timber buildings of The Shambles – York’s most beautiful street. Add to that a buzzing foodie scene and some of Britain’s most stunning scenery, and you’ll soon see why York’s the place to be.

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The centre of York, surrounded by walls whose foundations date back to medieval times. There is a wall walk around the city. York Minster at sunset. VisitBritain/Andrew Pickett

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York Minster

Where is York?

Located in the heart of North Yorkshire, York’s nearest airport is Leeds-Bradford. Located 30 miles (about 50 minutes by car) from the city centre, the airport operates flights to and from 70 destinations worldwide.

Getting around York

York is easily accessible from destinations across Britain. Direct trains run from London, Manchester and Edinburgh, getting you into the city in just two hours. Best explored on foot, the city also boasts excellent public transport connections, so it’s easy to navigate once you arrive too.

iTravelYork’s handy guide gives you all the information you need on travel within the city
It takes just 20 minutes to get from the outskirts to the city centre by bike, making cycling one of the easiest and most fun ways to access places to visit in York
Looking to visit attractions outside of York? Coastliner operates regular services to nearby destinations including bustling Leeds and the quirky coastal town of Whitby

BY FOOT

Small in stature but big on personality, York’s winding cobbled streets are best explored by foot. In fact, it takes just 20 minutes to walk from one side of the city to the other

BY BUS

First Bus run regular services throughout York and offer a range of money-saving tickets in addition to accepting contactless payments on all routes, for fast and convenient travel

BY BIKE

With a wide range of bicycle hire shops and bike tours available, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to discovering York attractions and landmarks on two wheels