FAQs about York

Are you visiting York soon or just thinking about planning a visit? We’ve put together the most asked questions about the city, from its haunted past to finding the best places to eat and drink. 

Ideal for saving time, get to know York before you start your journey and make the most of your time spent here. In this helpful guide we cover the basic facts about York, and extra tips and tricks to help you create a memorable stay! 

Visiting York 

What is the nicest part of York? 
We may be biased, but we think everywhere in York is nice! York is a beautiful and welcoming city with plenty to see and do, from iconic landmarks to independent shops and cosy places to eat. Depending on your tastes, you may want to explore the riverside and gardens, iconic sightseeing points, or the quaint streets of the Shambles. Many streets are picturesque and filled with well-preserved historic buildings, meaning you won’t be short of beautiful places to visit. 

How many days should I spend in York? 
Two to three days is ideal for first-time visitors. You can explore the main attractions and city centre in a couple of days, but many people stay longer to enjoy day trips into the countryside and North York Moors National Park. Explore York’s range of accommodation options here.  

Why is York so famous? 
York is known for its Viking and medieval heritage, its haunted past, the iconic York Minster, the Shambles, museums, chocolate-making history, and year-round festivals such as the York Christmas Market and York Ice Trail. 

Was Harry Potter filmed in York? 
No scenes were filmed in York, but the Shambles is often said to have inspired Diagon Alley. Many fans visit York for the magical atmosphere and themed shops. Nearby to York, Goathland Station in North Yorkshire was used as the setting for Harry’s first departure to Hogwarts. Read our itinerary to spot filming locations for magical films and TV here. 

What is the best month to visit York? 
York is a year-round destination. In summer, walk around the beautiful green spaces and discover al fresco dining options. Spring and autumn are great for exploring during the slightly quieter periods in mild weather, while December is especially atmospheric with Christmas lights and seasonal events. 

Things To Do 

What are the top attractions in York? 
There are York attractions to suit all tastes – from family-friendly activities to spooky attractions to boat rides. Whether you’re a history buff and want to explore the museums, or want a fun chocolate tour, there is something for everyone. There is also a wide range of guided and self-guided tours to help you uncover the city. Start planning your visit and explore all things to do in York here.

▸Pick up a Visit York Pass for an easy and affordable way to see and do as much as possible. 

Maps and Getting Around 

Where can I get a map of York? 
When arriving in York, come and see us at the Visit York Visitor Information Centre for maps and leaflets to help you navigate the city. If you wish to download a map before your visit, find a digital copy here. 

Is York accessible? 
Despite the historical nature of the city, many of York’s buildings and services are accessible. Use our accessibility filter to find businesses right for you here. 

How do I get to York city centre? 
Halfway between London and Edinburgh, York has excellent train links and regular buses that connect to other areas of Yorkshire. If you are travelling by car, there are several York Park & Ride sites so you can park and travel by bus right into the city centre for ease. For more detailed travel information, see here. 

Is York walkable? 
Yes. York boasts the largest number of attractions per square mile in the country, meaning most attractions and things to do are within a short walk of one another. A walk around the City Walls also makes for a lovely scenic walk around the city centre. 

Shopping in York 

Where can I go shopping in York? 
The city offers a wide range of independent shops across the city, plus a mix of high-street stores. Visit Shambles Market for unique items from local traders, and then refuel nearby at Shambles Food Court. If you need any directions or shopping maps, pop into the Visit York Visitor Information Centre and our team can offer advice on navigating the shops around York.

Eat & Drink 

What food is York known for? 
York is famous for its chocolate heritage, Sunday roasts, Yorkshire puddings, and local produce.  

Where can I find good places to eat in York? 
You’ll find a mix of independents, pubs, bakeries, restaurants across the city centre, and the Shambles Food Court for a delicious mix of international food traders. Explore the range of Eat & Drink in York here. 

Christmas in York 

What are the best things to do in York at Christmas? 
Visitors enjoy the Christmas market, festive lights, seasonal food, late-night shopping, and events such as carol concerts and family-friendly activities.  

Is York busy at Christmas? 
Yes, it is one of the most popular times of the year due to the lively festive atmosphere. Naturally it’s busier at weekends, we recommend visiting during the week if you’d prefer a slower pace on your visit to York.

When is the York Christmas Market? 
The York Christmas Market usually runs from mid-November to mid-December each year. For specific dates and updates on this year’s market, follow us on our social channels or check our dedicated hub on Christmas In York. 

Haunted York 

Are there ghost tours in York? 
Yes. York has several guided ghost walks that run throughout the year, many starting around the city centre and the Shambles. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, the guided tours are fun and atmospheric. 

Is York really haunted? 
York has centuries of folklore, legends, and ghost stories. Named one of the most haunted cities in Europe, York is known for its ghosts because of its long, turbulent history and well-preserved medieval streets. For more information on Haunted York, click here. 

We look forward to welcoming you to York! When you’re in York, come along to the Visit York Visitor Information Centre & Gift Shop for any help and advice on navigating the city. Our friendly team will be happy to help, and at the same time you can pick up a York-themed souvenir to remember your holiday.