Choose from 34 Fun Things to Do in Yorkshire
ShowingFilter 1-20 of 34 listings.
Jorvik Dig
Embark on an archaeological adventure right in the heart of the city with a visit to the Jorvik Dig, the perfect complement to the nearby Jorvik Viking Centre. Centered around the city's original archeological dig sites, the unique attraction offers the chance to discover York's 2000-year history through four specially created in-door excavation pits, filled with replica artifacts from the Roman, Viking, medieval and Victorian eras.
The interactive exhibits are great fun for the whole family, with fascinating displays detailing the recent Hungate excavations, and showcasing artifacts such as medieval pottery and Roman jewelry, while children of all ages can get hands-on digging for treasures like pottery, bone, and jewels in the special synthetic soil pits.
Practical Info
The Jorvik Dig is located in central York, a short stroll from the Shambles, and is open daily from 10am-5pm. Adult admission is £6.50.
Address: St Saviourgate, York YO1 8NN, England
Hours: Daily 10am-5pm
Admission: Adult £6.50, Child £6
From $ 52
Castle Howard
Castle Howard is one of Britain’s grandest stately homes. Built over the course of 100 years and still home to the Howard family, the castle was famously used as a filming location for Brideshead Revisited. Its 1,000 acres (405 hectares) of elegant grounds are located in the Howardian Hills—an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
The Basics
Highlights of the spectacular Castle Howard include the Walled Garden, Woodland Garden, and Atlas Fountain, plus its mausoleum and Temple of the Four Winds. The simplest way to visit Castle Howard, located as it is in the countryside, is on a guided tour; group coach tours and private driving tours of the region both offer a seamless way to explore. If you are visiting independently, you can wander the castle on your own or get a more comprehensive experience by joining one of Castle Howard’s two guided, late-afternoon tours offered daily from March to early November. Private tours should be booked in advance.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Castle Howard is the perfect destination for history buffs, architecture lovers, and garden enthusiasts.
- The grounds host a number of cafés and restaurants, including the elegant Fitzroy Restaurant and the Boathouse Café.
- On sunny summer days, you can embark on a boat tour of the Great Lake.
- The castle hosts a number of temporary exhibitions, plus a series of talks and other special events.
- Most of the house and grounds are accessible to wheelchair users. Manual wheelchairs are available to borrow at the ticket office or house entrance.
How to Get There
Castle Howard is located just 15 miles (24 kilometers) northwest of York, amidst the rolling Howardian Hills. Guided tours from York offer the easiest way to access the landmark; if driving yourself, take the A64. Bus 181 runs from York to Castle Howard four times daily.
When to Get There
Castle Howard is open to the public daily from late March through early November; the ticket office opens at 10am, with first entry to the castle at 10:30am and last entry at 3pm. The sprawling grounds are open 10am to 5pm year-round. Castle Howard is also open from late November until December 31 (except December 24 through 26) for an array of holiday activities including live music and entertainment, festive decorations, and market stalls.
Castle Howard and Brideshead Revisited
Beyond its glamour and wealth of history, Castle Howard also has a cinematic side. The landmark was used as a filming location for both the television and movie adaptations of Evelyn Waugh’s Brideshead Revisited.
Address: Castle Howard, York, YO60 7DA, England
Admission: Varies
From $ 52
Goddards House and Garden
Chocolate orange fans can pay homage to the Goddard family, owners of Terry's Chocolates and the innovators behind the popular tangy-sweet flavor combination at their family home and garden. The grounds offer a tranquil way to spend the afternoon: learning about chocolate and British life in the 1930s.
Visitors to the brick, 1927 Arts and Craft-style cottage can see displays on Terry's Chocolates' 250-year history, type out comments and memories on a vintage typewriter, sip sherry by the fireplace in the drawing room overlooking the garden, and learn how the Goddard children entertained themselves on rainy days with activities like indoor croquet. The property's four acres of wooded gardens feature two ponds and seasonal blooms for pleasant strolls year-round, and abut the now-shuttered The Chocolate Works factory where the first chocolate orange was produced.
The house serves tea and chocolate orange cake al fresco on the terrace in spring and summer. More substantial meals, highlighting ingredients from the onsite greenhouse and surrounding community, are served in a garden-side dining room in the house.
Practical Info
Goddards House and Garden (27 Tadcaster Rd York) is a mile and a half south of downtown York and run by the National Trust, which maintains regional offices onsite. The house and grounds are open to the public Wed-Sun from 10:30am "˜til 5pm in spring, summer and fall, and with limited openings in November and December.
General admission is £6.30 ($7.80) adults, £3.15 ($3.90) children or £15.75 ($19.60) for families of two adults and up to three children. The attraction is included in the York Pass, which bundles admission to the city's most popular sites.
Address: England
Hours: Wed-Sun from 10:30am-5pm in spring, summer and fall; limited openings in November and December
Admission: £6.30 ($7.80) adults, £3.15 ($3.90) children
From $ 52
The Shambles
Renowned as one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval shopping streets and awarded the title of ‘Britain’s most picturesque street’ by Google. A stroll down The Shambles is one of York’s top attractions. Mentioned in the Domesday Book of William the Conqueror in 1086, The Shambles dates back over 900 years and takes its name from the Saxon ‘Fleshammels’ or ‘street of the butchers’. Although none of the original shop fronts remain, many of the wide window-sills and meat hooks once used for displaying the fresh cuts of meat remain, and the peculiar overhanging buildings, which appear to lean into each other, were designed in order to keep the butchers’ shops below shaded from the sun.
Today, the narrow cobblestone lane is lined with 15th-century buildings and retains much of its medieval character, with its artful jumble of timber-framed shop fronts, gabled windows and old-fashioned shop signs. With houses so narrow in parts that you can stretch your hands between them, the historic spot is begging to have its picture taken, but The Shambles offers more than just a photo opportunity – it’s also one of York’s premier shopping streets, crammed with shopping boutiques, antiques stores, restaurants and cafés.
Today, the narrow cobblestone lane is lined with 15th-century buildings and retains much of its medieval character, with its artful jumble of timber-framed shop fronts, gabled windows and old-fashioned shop signs. With houses so narrow in parts that you can stretch your hands between them, the historic spot is begging to have its picture taken, but The Shambles offers more than just a photo opportunity – it’s also one of York’s premier shopping streets, crammed with shopping boutiques, antiques stores, restaurants and cafés.
Address: Shambles, York, North Yorkshire YO1 7LZ, England
From $ 19
North Yorkshire Moors Railway
Overview
With a history dating back to 1835, the North Yorkshire Moors Railway is England’s most popular heritage steam railway. The 18-mile (29-kilometer) route winds through the North York Moors National Park, stopping at historic railway stations and affording magnificent views of the rugged moorlands.
The Basics
The railway runs from Pickering station to Grosmont, stopping at Levisham, Newton Dale, and Goathland. Single or return tickets are available from any of the stations, and all train tickets allow you to hop-on and hop-off, so you can explore all the destinations along the way. For an extra special experience, book a seat in the Pullman Dining Train to enjoy lunch, afternoon tea, or dinner on board; opt for a behind-the-scenes tour of the historic trains; or take a ride on one of the steam or diesel footplates (advance bookings essential).
Most visitors opt to ride the North Yorkshire Moors Railway on a day trip from York, often combined with a visit to the seaside resort of Whitby or Yorkshire towns, such as Hutton-le-Hole or Helmsley.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Trains have restrooms on board and refreshments are available to purchase.
- Cafés, paid car parking, and restrooms are available at all stations.
- All trains and stations offer wheelchair access, but it is best to advise at the time of booking if you need assistance.
How to Get to There
Limited car parking is available at the train stations, so if you are planning to drive, it’s recommended to make an early start. Most people choose to visit as part of a guided tour, but it’s also possible to take the train from Whitby to Grosmont station or from York to Pickering.
When to Get There
Steam trains run every day from the end of March through October, and the most impressive views are during the summer months of July and August, when the Yorkshire moors are ablaze with purple heather. During the winter months, service is cut back to select weekends and holidays. Traveling offpeak (typically weekdays outside of school holidays) means cheaper train fares and fewer crowds.
North Yorkshire Moors Railway Highlights
North Yorkshire Moors Railway’s star attraction is Goathland station, famously transformed into Hogsmeade station for the first Harry Potter film. The town of Goathland was also the filming location for popular UK TV series Heartbeat. Levisham and Newton Dale are the gateway to the moors, with ample opportunities for hiking and wildlife watching, while visitors to Grosmont station can explore the historic railway sheds and enjoy a traditional afternoon tea at the Grosmont Tea Room.
Address: North Yorkshire, United Kingdom, England
Hours: Vary
From $ 39
Captain Cook Memorial Museum
Chronicling the life and times of the iconic explorer, the Captain Cook Memorial Museum offers fascinating insight into Whitby's most famous former resident. Housed in the 17th-century home where a young James Cook took on his apprenticeship as a seaman, the museum’s star attraction is Cook’s attic room, decked out in period furnishings.
At the museum, visitors can learn about Cook's now-legendary voyages through a fascinating collection of artifacts, letters, ship models and maps. Pore over original letters written by Cook and his crew; follow his travels through maps and charts; see items brought back from Cook's long journeys to New Zealand and the Pacific Islands; and admire paintings of the voyages by Parkinson, Hodges and Webber.
Practical Info
The Captain Cook Memorial Museum is located in Whitby and is open daily—from 11am to 3pm from February 13 to March 24 and from 9:45am to 5pm from March 25 to November 6. The museum is closed from November 7 to February 12, but opens for private, prebooked groups.
Admission costs £5.40 for adults and £3.50 for children.
Address: Grape Lane, Whitby, Yorkshire YO22 4BA, England
Hours: Feb 13–March 24 11am–3pm; March 25–Nov 6 9:45am–5pm
Admission: Adult £5.40, children £3.50
From $ 52
Barley Hall
This historic site was discovered by accident, when it was scheduled to be destroyed. The oldest parts of Barley Hall date from about 1360, but until the 1980s the house was hidden under a more modern brick façade.
The medieval house was once home to the Priors of Nostell and the Mayor of York. The building has been fully restored to replicate what it would have looked like around 1483. A living museum, many volunteers work in costume to help recreate history. Visitors are allowed to touch objects, even sit in chairs to get a true feel of life in Medieval England.
Practical Info
With the exception of some major holidays, Barley Hall is open every day. Your ticket is valid for unlimited free entry for one year from the date of purchase. Barley Hall is located in York's Coffee Yard, with access from Stonegate or Swinegate.
Address: 2 Coffee Yard, Off Stonegate, York, United Kingdom YO1 8AR, England
Hours: April 1-Nov 3 10am-5pm, Nov 4-March 31 10am-4pm
Admission: Adult £5.50, Child 5-16 £3, Members £4
From $ 52
Eden Camp
Housed in a former World War II prisoner-of-war camp, the Eden Camp museum is an artifact in itself and contains several items from its period of history. Real tanks, aircraft, artillery, military equipment and hardware, submarines, and even shelters are all on display. The interactive experience is designed to recreate the feel of the home front and the front line using sounds, smells, and animatronics. Exhibits spread out in 33 huts detail the stories of the Battle of Britain and World War I and II, among other conflicts since 1945.
Eden Camp has won many awards for its immersive displays, which remind visitors of what it felt like to live in wartime Britain. It is recognized as one of the most comprehensive museums of 20th century British military forces, and is an essential stop for history enthusiasts when in York.
Practical Info
Eden Camp is found just outside the North Yorkshire town of Malton. It’s best reached by car off the A169/A64 Junction, and parking is free upon arrival. There are picnic facilities and an on-site cafe. There’s lots to see, so plan on a few hours to a full day to explore the many exhibits.
Address: Malton, North Yorkshire, England
Hours: 10AM–5PM
Admission: £8.50 for adults, £7.50 for children (ages 5-16)
From $ 13
Fairfax House
Regarded as one of England’s most impressive Georgian town houses, Fairfax House dates back to 1762 and takes its name from Charles Gregory, the 9th Viscount Fairfax of Emley, who acquired the property in 1759. After a short-lived incarnation as a gentlemen’s club and cinema, Fairfax House was bought and renovated by the York Civic Trust, reopening in 1984 as a house museum, showcasing a fine collection of period furnishings and antiques.
Today, the museum displays the Noel Terry Collection of Georgian furniture, but it’s the painstakingly restored interiors that earn the most acclaim. Designed by Yorkshire architect John Carr, the house is a masterpiece of Georgian style, adorned with elaborate wrought ironwork, intricate woodcarvings and striking stucco ceilings. Highlights include the exquisite Great Staircase, the grand Venetian Window, furnishings including one of the houses’ original four-poster beds and a selection of 18th Century paintings.
Today, the museum displays the Noel Terry Collection of Georgian furniture, but it’s the painstakingly restored interiors that earn the most acclaim. Designed by Yorkshire architect John Carr, the house is a masterpiece of Georgian style, adorned with elaborate wrought ironwork, intricate woodcarvings and striking stucco ceilings. Highlights include the exquisite Great Staircase, the grand Venetian Window, furnishings including one of the houses’ original four-poster beds and a selection of 18th Century paintings.
Address: Castlegate, York, North Yorkshire YO1 9RN, England
Hours: Tue-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 12:30pm-4pm. Mondays guided tours 11am-2pm
Admission: Adult: £6; Senior/Student: £5
From $ 25
York City Walls
Once stretching 2.5 miles around the ancient city, today the well-preserved ruins of the York City Walls trace the periphery of the modern city center, encompassing many of York’s top attractions. Originally erected in Roman times, the remaining walls today date back to the 13th and 14th centuries and include four ‘bars’ (gatehouses), where tollbooths once taxed entrants to the city. Although only 3 main sections of the walls remain, interlinked by footpaths, walking the walls is a popular pastime for visitors to the city and clambering up the ramparts affords spectacular city views.
Starting from Micklegate Bar, the ceremonial entrance to the city once used by Royal visitors, a walk around the walls takes in highlights like the Museum Gardens, York Minster, the York Castle Museum, Clifford’s Tower and the Monk Bar, which now houses the Richard III Museum.
Starting from Micklegate Bar, the ceremonial entrance to the city once used by Royal visitors, a walk around the walls takes in highlights like the Museum Gardens, York Minster, the York Castle Museum, Clifford’s Tower and the Monk Bar, which now houses the Richard III Museum.
Address: York, North Yorkshire, England
From $ 19
Jorvik Viking Centre
Set on the site of a major Viking settlement, Jorvik Viking Centre whisks visitors back in time to ninth-century England. Glass floors reveal remnants of the original village uncovered by archaeologists in the 1970s, while a train ride takes passengers past detailed diorama-style displays that recreate typical scenes from Viking life"”complete with animatronic figures, a soundtrack, and more.
The Basics
The Jorvik Viking Centre offers an engaging experiential history lesson for visitors of all ages, bringing the Viking story to life through immersive and interactive exhibits that allow travelers to try their hand at virtual excavations of their own. Visitors take self-guided tours of the center, with interactive displays, commentary, and live guides in Viking dress, providing information along the way. The center can be reached via hop-on hop-off tour buses of York. Some York sightseeing passes include free entry to the attraction.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Allow at least one hour to properly explore the Jorvik Viking Centre.
- Tickets are available at the door, but it's worth booking in advance to avoid lines during peak times.
How to Get There
The Jorvik Viking Centre is located inside Coppergate Shopping Centre in York's city center. Lots of local bus routes (10, 10a, 16, 24, 25, 26, 36, 42, 45, 46, X46, X47, 412, and 415) run to Piccadilly, which is just a short 2-minute walk away from the attraction.
When to Get There
Lines form at the Jorvik Viking Centre, especially on summer weekends and during school vacations. Arrive early in the morning or later in the day to avoid the crowds.
The Sounds, Sights, and Smells of Viking-Age York
Among the Jorvik Viking Centre's most famous artifacts is the Lloyds Bank coprolite, a fully intact 7-inch (18-centimeter) fossilized Viking excrement. Not only does the center showcase objects unearthed in the dig, but it also presents a multisensory reimagining of Viking life. Listen carefully and you will hear the animatronic characters at Jorvik speaking Old Norse. Smells, designed to resemble those that would have been present in ninth-century Jorvik, waft through the air.
Address: JORVIK Viking Centre, Coppergate, York, North Yorkshire YO1 9WT, England
Hours: Apr - Oct: 10am - 5pm; Nov - Mar: 10am - 4pm
Admission: Varies
From $ 52
Clifford's Tower
The last vestige of York Castle, Clifford's Tower is now one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, perched on a grassy mound overlooking the River Ouse. Although the castle was originally built by William the Conqueror in 1069, the present-day tower was erected between 1245 and 1265 by Henry III when the fortress was rebuilt in stone and has served numerous purposes throughout its long history. Used over the years as a royal mint, a prison and an execution ground, the tower takes its name from Roger de Clifford, who was executed for treason by Edward II and hanged in chains from the tower walls.
Today, climbing the 55 steps to the top of the mound is a popular pastime among visitors to the city and walking along the tower ramparts affords expansive panoramic views over York.
Today, climbing the 55 steps to the top of the mound is a popular pastime among visitors to the city and walking along the tower ramparts affords expansive panoramic views over York.
Address: Tower St, York, North Yorkshire YO1 9SA, England
Hours: Nov 4 2013 - Mar 31 2014: Daily 10am-4pm
Admission: Adult: £4.20; Child: £2.50; Concession: £3.80
From $ 19
Wensleydale Creamery
Welcome to cheese heaven! At the award-winning Wensleydale Creamery, visitors will learn everything there is to know about the famous British cheese and the art of cheese making. It’s even possible to see the cheese literally being cut, stirred, pitched, and salted by hand at the viewing gallery inside the Yorkshire Wensleydale Cheese Experience. The creamery is also home to a gift shop (where a vast array of cheese and cheese-related paraphernalia are available), a deli, a coffee shop, and a restaurant with views of the surrounding Yorkshire Dales. There is also a newly refurbished visitor center on-site, which explains the history and heritage of the Wensleydale cheese and where visitors will have the opportunity to taste the stuff for themselves.
Practical Info
The Wensleydale Creamery is located on Gayle Lane in Hawes, North Yorkshire. It can be reached by car from both York and Newcastle in less than two hours via routes M1 and A66. It can also be reached by public transit, taking the train to Northallerton and then the 856 bus to Gayle, stopping at Wensleydale Creamery. Entry fee to the museum and cheese experience costs £2.50 per adult, £1.50 per child and £7.50 per family of two adults and two children. The cheese and gift shops are open every day from 10 am to 4 pm.
Address: Gayle Ln, Hawes, North Yorkshire, England
Hours: Cheese and gift shops are open every day from 10 am to 4 pm.
Admission: £2.50 per adult, £1.50 per child
From $ 55
York Dungeon
Whisking visitors on a hair-raising journey through York’s grim and gruesome past, the York Dungeon is one of the city’s most entertaining attractions, located close to the landmark Clifford’s Tower. Spanning over 2,000 years of York’s history, the city’s most notorious ghosts and villains are brought to life in the dungeons, with 11 shows employing a wacky cast of actors, authentic sets and costumes, and special effects to shock and scare even the bravest of participants.
Get lost in the murky world of 18th century York, as you watch the infamous outlaw Dick Turpin meet his fated end in the gallows; follow notorious traitor Guy Fawkes as his plot to blow up Parliament is foiled; see how the Great Plague raged through the city in 1349; or test your nerves as you hunt down the eerie Ghosts of York. That’s not all – there’s also a terrifying invasion by bloodthirsty Vikings, medieval torture chambers and the treacherous Labyrinth of the Last Roman Legion.
Get lost in the murky world of 18th century York, as you watch the infamous outlaw Dick Turpin meet his fated end in the gallows; follow notorious traitor Guy Fawkes as his plot to blow up Parliament is foiled; see how the Great Plague raged through the city in 1349; or test your nerves as you hunt down the eerie Ghosts of York. That’s not all – there’s also a terrifying invasion by bloodthirsty Vikings, medieval torture chambers and the treacherous Labyrinth of the Last Roman Legion.
Address: 12 Clifford St, York, North Yorkshire YO1 9RD, England
Admission: Varies
From $ 17
Whitby
With its blue flag beaches, colorful fishing harbor and windswept cliffs, Whitby has long ranked among England’s most popular coastal towns, first earning fame as a Georgian seaside resort, then for its booming jet mining industry in Victorian times, and now infamous for its abundance of ghosts and thriving Goth scene.
A highlight of the North York Moors National Park and a key stop on the famous North Yorkshire Moors steam railway, Whitby’s striking good looks and historic connections make it a must-see for visitors to the north. Highlights include the cliff-top Whitby Abbey, which famously inspired Bram Stoker’s Dracula, and the Captain Cook Museum, devoted to the legendary local explorer, while simple pleasures abound - pick up some fish ‘n’ chips from the renowned Magpie Café, stroll along the scenic River Esk waterfront or shop for jewelry made with Whitby Jet.
Practical Info
Whitby is located in the North Yorks Moors National Park on England’s northeast coast, approximately 45 miles from York.
Address: Whitby, North Yorkshire, England
From $ 58
Henry VII Experience at Micklegate Bar
Located at Micklegate Bar, one of the four principal gateways of York's medieval city walls, the Henry VII Experience transports visitors back to medieval era York, following the fascinating story of Henry VII. Housed in the restored 14th-century gatehouse, the museum features exhibits on the legacy of Henry VII, England's first Tudor King, who defeated Richard III at the Battle of Bosworth and went on to rule for twenty-four years.
Highlights of the experience include interactive exhibitions on the Battle of Bosworth and the Tudor ascent to the throne, and a special Tudor Camp for children, with costumes, props, and narration by Horrible Histories author Terry Deary.
Practical Info
The Henry VII Experience is located at Micklegate Bar in central York, just a short walk from York central train station, and is open daily from 10am-4pm (summer) or 3pm (winter). Adult admission is £5.
Address: Micklegate, City Centre, York, United Kingdom YO1 6JX, England
Hours: Daily: April-Oct 10am-4pm, Nov-March 10am-3pm
Admission: Adult £5, Child £3
From $ 52
Kilburn White Horse
Drive along the Vale of York on the boundary of the North York Moors National Park and you won’t be able to miss the Kilburn White Horse, a gigantic artwork of a horse etched into the limestone cliffs of the Sutton Bank. Formed using more than 6 tons of limestone chalk chips to whiten the natural grey rock and featuring a lone grass patch for the ‘eye,’ the White Horse was designed by local businessman Thomas Taylor in 1857, inspired by similar designs in south England.
It might not have been the original, but it is the biggest – the Kilburn White Horse measures an impressive 97 meters long and 67 meters high, covering a plot of around 1.6 acres. Hiking routes and lookout points run along the hilltop around the White Horse (although walking on the horse is frowned upon as it damages the surface), but the most impressive views are from the bottom of the hill and on clear days, the landmark equine can be seen from as far away as North Leeds.
Practical Info
The Kilburn White Horse is located near Kilburn in the North York Moors National Park and is free to visit.
Address: North York Moors National Park, Thirsk, United Kingdom, England
From $ 58
Beningbrough Hall
Built in 1716 on the Yorkshire meadows, Beningbrough Hall served as a family home, inherited and passed down and around over many generations during the 1700 and 1800s. During the Second World War Beningbrough was called into service and used to house airmen from bomber squadrons. It wasn't until the late 1970s when The National Trust began restoring its Baroque interiors that it became popular with visitors.
Art lovers especially will enjoy spending time inside Beningbrough Hall. Thanks to a unique partnership with the National Portrait Gallery, nearly 130 portraits are on exhibit. The walled gardens contain flowers and vegetables, and staff gardeners have been known to offer growing tips to interested visitors. Families are also welcome at Beningbrough Hall. There's a wilderness play area and assorted activities like art workshops designed to entertain.
Practical Info
Free guided garden walks are also held every Wednesday and Saturday. Beningbrough Hall is 8 miles north-west of York, off A19 and A59.
Address: Beningbrough, North Yorkshire, York, United Kingdom YO30 1DD, England
Hours: Vary
Admission: Varies
From $ 52
York Minster
Ranking high on the list of York’s top attractions, the magnificent York Minster is one of Europe’s finest cathedrals and the largest medieval cathedral in the UK. Although the earliest parts of the building are from the 12th century, the Minster’s roots date back much earlier, with the present day cathedral built on the site of a former Norman church and Roman fortress. A masterpiece of gothic architecture, the Minster is renowned for its stonework and exquisite stained glass windows, as well as its fine acoustics.
Today, the Minster is not only an important center of worship and a popular venue for classical music performances (including regular recitals by the celebrated Minster Choir), but is home to a number of tourist attractions. Visitors can climb the 275 steps to the top of the Central Tower, the highest point of York; head into the underground chambers, where interactive galleries and exhibits that chronicle the Minster’s long history; or discover some of the world’s most important medieval art on display in the Orb, a special presentation of John Thornton’s stained glass art. Finally, don’t forget to kiss your loved one beneath the cathedral's Great West Window – local legend dictates that couples who embrace beneath the windows’ heart emblem, known as 'The Heart of Yorkshire', will have a long and happy union.
Today, the Minster is not only an important center of worship and a popular venue for classical music performances (including regular recitals by the celebrated Minster Choir), but is home to a number of tourist attractions. Visitors can climb the 275 steps to the top of the Central Tower, the highest point of York; head into the underground chambers, where interactive galleries and exhibits that chronicle the Minster’s long history; or discover some of the world’s most important medieval art on display in the Orb, a special presentation of John Thornton’s stained glass art. Finally, don’t forget to kiss your loved one beneath the cathedral's Great West Window – local legend dictates that couples who embrace beneath the windows’ heart emblem, known as 'The Heart of Yorkshire', will have a long and happy union.
Address: Deangate, York YO1 7HH, England
Hours: Mon-Sat 9am-5pm, Sun 12:30pm-5pm
Admission: Adult: £15; Seniors/Students £14; Child £5 (ages 8-16)
From $ 19
Helmsley
With its stone-brick houses crawling with ivy and cobbled pavements brimming with flowers, the lively market town of Helmsley is among Yorkshire’s prettiest. Located on the cusp of the North York Moors National Park, the historic village makes a popular pit stop for those exploring the park’s natural wonders, with its traditional tearooms and charming pubs welcoming a steady stream of day-trippers.
Helmsley’s top attraction is the imposing ruin of the 12th- century Helmsley Castle, home to the magnificent 5-acre Helmsley Walled Gardens, but additional highlights include the ruins of Rievaulx Abbey and Byland Abbey; the 300-acre Duncombe Park, famous for its Birds of Prey reserve; the Helmsley Arts Centre; and the Cleveland Way National Trail, which starts close to town.
Practical Info
Helmsley is located in the North York Moors National Park, approximately 25 miles north of York.
Address: Helmsley, North Yorkshire, England
From $ 58