Uncovering the Mystery & History of York

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Lindsey Dial
Curated By

Lindsey Dial

  • Off-the-Beaten-Path Travel

  • City Travel

  • England

  • Hidden Gems

Advisor - Uncovering the Mystery & History of York
Curator’s statement

York is a quaint town located in Northeastern England that is steeped in mystery and allure. From the York Shambles, which is said to have inspired Harry Potter's Diagon Alley, to the looming York Minster, the largest Gothic Cathedral in all of Northern Europe, a trip to York truly feels as if you have been transported back to the 13th century. It’s a place so magical and transformative, you have to experience it for yourself.

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Where to stay in York

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Things to do in York

The bustling alleyways of the York Shambles

  • Visit the York Minster: The York Minster, the largest Gothic cathedral in all of Northern Europe, is a must-visit. Prepare to be in awe as you marvel at its architecture and splendor. This cathedral speaks for itself.

  • Stroll the Shambles Market: The Shambles is a small alleyway lined with quirky shops. From the York Ghost Merchants to The Shop That Must Not Be Named, The Shambles will be sure to impress you.

  • Visit the Viking Museum: York isn’t just about its Roman ruins; the Vikings also called York home many years before. Visit the Viking Museum to see how they came to settle in York, and even see archaeological finds that were discovered just below the streets and alleys of York.

  • Walk the city walls: Perhaps one of the things York is most well known for is its medieval city walls. Boasting two miles of walkable area, these are the oldest and most preserved of all city walls in England.

  • Shop the quirky stores on Stonegate, Petergate, and Swingate: These streets not only offer stunning views and architecture, but also quirky shops! York Soap Co. will provide you with fun and festive soaps and lotions, and the cat gallery has plenty of cat-themed gifts and trinkets available.

  • Join a ghost tour: York is known as one of the most haunted destinations in all of England. If you dare, join one of many ghost tours that happen nightly. You will be transported back in time as these tours uncover the bloody history and folklore of York.

  • Museum Gardens: If you are looking for a peaceful stroll, take a venture into the Museum Gardens. Here you will find gorgeous scenery, plant life, and even ruins of the St. Mary's Abbey.

Places to eat & drink in York

The York Gin shop

  • Forest: Located in the hustle and bustle and right next to the Minster, Forest provides exceptional cuisine in a rustic and cozy atmosphere.

  • House of the Trembling Madness (Stonegate): Looking for a unique pub? The House of the Trembling Madness is a medieval-style pub, complete with hearty food, an extensive list of beers, and even some quirky taxidermy.

  • Nola York: Looking for an elevated dining experience with exceptional cuisine and Art Deco interiors? Nola offers Cajun-inspired dishes served on small plates so many options can be savored.

  • Hole in the Wall: The Hole in the Wall offers traditional hearty English pub food that nourishes and warms your soul. It also has a secret of its own, getting its name from a dungeon and tunnel discovered in 1816 during excavations.

  • York Gin: Fancy a gin tasting? York Gin is an award-winning gin distillery right in York. Stop into their store to taste their wide array of gin.

Need to know

  • Visit in the fall! This is when you can truly experience the best vibes of the city. Fall intensifies the mysterious and spooky vibes that York has, and provides for amazing photo opportunities with the stunning leaves.

  • Let your feet take you. With every twist and turn through York, you are sure to find something that will amaze you.

  • Bring warm clothes and comfy shoes. York can have unpredictable weather and the cobblestone streets can sometimes be rough on the ankles and feet.

Lindsey Dial

Travel Advisor

Lindsey Dial

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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our England page.