A Perfect York Weekend: Walking, Shopping & Sight-Seeing

England is full of pockets of history and Roman architecture. Many of its most famous cities seamlessly blend the countryside into the city landscape with medieval architecture standing side-by-side with newer buildings. If you’re a history fan, escape the hustle and bustle of London and jump on the train to York. 

What we love about York is that it’s a walkable city. While public transport is available, you can reach the city centre on foot from the train station in just 15 minutes. Whether you’re a tourist visiting the UK or a local wanting to explore the countryside, York is an ideal day trip or weekend getaway. 

We’re sharing our favourite walks around York, the best department stores in York, and tips and tricks for navigating the city. 

Cultural Highlights | Why You Should Visit York

York is just a two-hour Train Ride From London with journey times varying depending on your chosen route with over 60 trains heading to York daily. Built along the Rivers Foss and Ouse, York is one of England’s most historic cities. 

Founded by the ancient Romans, and previously known as ‘Jorvik’ under the Vikings, York was famously the home of King Richard II. If you’re heading to York, take a little time to read up on the history of the Wars of the Roses – you’ll find lots of references to it throughout the city.

Walking through York feels like stepping back in time with its 13th Century Cathedral, historic city walls, and medieval buildings. York is famously considered to be Europe’s most haunted city. It’s why York is famous for its ghost walking tours.

Here are a few cultural highlights in York to visit:

• York Minster

This breath-taking cathedral is one of England’s most famous. There has been a church on the site since the early seventh century with the present-day cathedral built between the 13th and 15th centuries. The Great East Window inside the cathedral is the largest medieval stained glass window in the world. Admission tickets cost £16.50 for adults and include entrance to the church and tower, which offers panoramic views across the city. 

• The Shambles

If you’re a Harry Potter fan, you might think The Shambles look familiar. They’re rumoured to be the inspiration behind Diagon Alley with its distinctive narrow streets and wonky buildings. Many of these buildings date back to the 14th century with several Harry Potter-inspired stores in the area. 

• The Golden Fleece

If you’re in York for a ghost experience, visit the Golden Fleece. While it looks like a traditional English pub from the outside, it’s York’s most haunted pub, supposedly hosting fifteen different ghosts. Even if you’re a ghost hunter, the pub gives you a traditional English experience, serving up classic British cuisine and comfort food.

• York Castle Museum

Get a whistle-stop of York’s unique history by visiting the York Castle Museum. You’ll find a full replica of a Victorian street with a sweet shop, prison, and school. It’s a great choice if you’re taking a family trip to York with lots of learning opportunities for adults and kids alike. 

Where to Shop | Department Stores in York 

No day out or weekend getaway is complete without a little retail therapy. There are two major department stores in York, putting all the brands you need under one roof. They’re the perfect choice for an afternoon of shopping or if you need to grab a waterproof trench coat. 

• Fenwick York 

One of the most popular department stores in York is Fenwick, just a stone’s throw away from Clifford’s Tower, near the River Foss. It’s open from 9 am to 5:30 pm from Monday to Saturday and from 10:30 am to 4:30 pm on Sunday. This department store is smaller, but packs a punch, with classic British brands and emerging designers. 

• Browns of York

What makes this department store in York unique is that it’s been going since 1890. Browns is part of the city’s history as an independent family-owned department store. It’s since expanded into other locations, but the York store remains its flagship. Browns even offers a hair salon, brow bar, and personal shopping service. 

Hiking Routes and Walks Near York 

If you’re planning to make your trip to York a weekend break or overnight stay, there are dozens of hiking routes and walks around York. The City of York Council offers a range of walking route maps with directions and points of interest. Make sure to pack a Stylish Waterproof Jacket to navigate whatever the British weather throws at you.

• Walk Along the City Walls 

The easiest walking route around York is following the city walls. Originally built by the Romans, the York walls are still in great condition. A complete loop gives you a 2-mile walking route and it’s a completely free to walk with an elevated view of the city and a great sense of how things may have been when the Vikings descended all those centuries ago. The walls open from 8 am and you’ll want to visit early to avoid the crowds. 

• New Earswick Walking Route

One of the most flexible options for walks near York, the New Earswick path can be walked as a 2.5-mile or 6.25-mile route. New Earswick is a ‘garden village’ near York, just 2.5 miles north of the city. You can reach the walking route by driving and parking at the New Earswick Library or taking a number 1 bus. Make sure to download a map for this walking route near York. 

• Holtby Walking Route

If you want a short mid-afternoon walk or to soak up the countryside, this walk near York clocks in at just 2 miles with an average walking time of 50 minutes. Holtby is a traditional Vale of York village with a historic personality and an origin that can be traced back to the Vikings. This walking route is ideal for beginners and easy to follow, whether you download the ‘walks in York’ map or rely on road signs.

York is a city you can visit year-round for a day trip or a weekend getaway. Whatever time you’re visiting, you’ll want to bring a women’s waterproof parka or a Ladies Stylish Waterproof Jacket if you’re planning on exploring the city or taking a walk near York. Looking for more walking routes in the UK? Check out our guide to London’s best hiking trails.