Christmas In York

Enjoy the Christmas cheer on offer in one of the UK's most festive cities as York's restaurants, shops and attractions are beautifully decorated and provide a wonderful winter experience, with an incredible range of festive events! For the perfect York Christmas, stay longer and give yourself a luxurious amount of time to soak up the festive atmosphere.

Visit Treasurer’s House ▸

Discover beautiful and unique decorations, twinkling lights and all the warmth of the season at Treasurer’s House. Drop in from 19 November - 18 December, Saturday - Wednesday, no need to book.

The Gift of Giving is this year’s theme and celebrates the incredible gift of his home and collection to the National Trust by Mr. Frank Green in 1930. Each of the period rooms take on their own identity and share the stories of past residents. Complete your visit with a trip to the café downstairs to sample the festive menu or browse the shelves of the shop around the corner.

Visit City Cruises ▸

Experience Christmas on the river! City Cruises will whisk you away from the streets of York and help you escape into a winter wonderland as you explore the fascinating history of the city and enjoy a Christmas song or two. A warming hot drink of tea, coffee or hot chocolate and a festive mince pie, or apple pie will be included in the ticket!

The cruise takes in several famous landmarks, including the glorious 13th Century Bishopthorpe Palace, the official residence of the Archbishop of York.

Visit The Hat Shop ▸

Wrap up warm this Christmas! If you like Harris Tweed or, are looking for an occasion wear piece for a special occasion, or simply something to keep you warm then this is the place to come!

An independent family run business who stock occasion, smart and casual hats by popular British Hatmakers like Christys' (est 1773), Olney and Whiteley, together with international brands such as Stetson from Western fame, Bailey of Hollywood, and Tilley from Canada. Our headbands made by Helen Moore in Devon have even been approved by PETA as Vegan friendly.

Choose from many styles of quality hats to suit both men & women including trilbies, fedoras, top hats, 'Downton Abbey' cloches, flat caps and 'peaky blinder' bakerboys, along with beanies and pom poms for those who prefer the more casual look.

Visit North Yorkshire Moors Railway Santa Specials ▸

Make it a December to remember at the North Yorkshire Moors Railway! Join Santa and his team of elves for a an enchanting and magical journey all the family will enjoy aboard the famous Santa Express.

Climb on board from either Pickering or Grosmont Station and enjoy an enchanting Christmas experience on board the NYMR’s heritage carriages, to see Mr Claus and his jolly helpers. Your on board ‘elf compare’ will entertain you and ignite your festive spirit and cheer to your journey, singing songs and playing games. During the journey children will have the chance to meet the legendary man himself, as he passes through the carriages, and will give and early special gift for all the children onboard - providing they’ve managed to keep themselves off the naughty list, of course!

Don’t miss the charming Shambles Market during your visit to York, and find the perfect Christmas gift for your loved ones. Treat yourself to some of the finest seasonal produce for your Christmas dinner, offering fresh farm meat, vegetables, poultry and much more. Enjoy sizzling street food as you browse more than 70 stalls of local traders.

Discover the delights of the iconic St Nicholas Fair, which is set to return for its 30th Anniversary this year. Meander through the alpine chalets and discover a treasure trove of festive goodies. Each chalet is adorned with twinkling fairy lights and stocked with everything from original gifts to extra special treats and handmade crafts. Indulge in mouth-watering street food, pick up some unique stocking fillers and tuck into some seasonal produce from an array of local traders.