York - The Green City

Eco-Friendly Things To Do in York

York is a green city of parks and green sanctuaries; traffic-free, tree-lined avenues of colourful cafes; secret snickle ways and bijou piazzas; and elegant Georgian architecture with a river meandering through its centre. It’s the perfect place for pockets of peace and tranquillity, gentle boat-ride, cycle safari or lazy amble round independent, family-run shops and local markets.

• York Minster, one of the world’s most magnificent cathedrals - marvel at its secret spaces, world-class treasures, and its awe-inspiring stained-glass windows, some of the most important in the world; or be in the serenity of a service year-round. Hidden behind York Minster, you’ll find Dean’s Park, a perfect spot for a picnic that feels a world away from the everyday.

• City Cruises - enjoying fish & chips on a riverside cruise while enjoying a local speciality! The relaxing cruise takes you through the historic and beautiful city on York’s iconic riverboats.

• Museum Gardens, watch the world (and riverboats) go by in this riverside landscape park, home to romantic ruins of St Mary’s Abbey and the Yorkshire Museum and Gardens - one of the earliest purpose-built museums in the country and houses some of the finest collections of archaeological treasures from the city’s Roman, Viking and mediaeval past. You'll also find an ice-cream break moment!

• Exhibition Square, where you’ll often find picnic benches outside York Art Gallery by the water fountain and statue of Willian Etty (a York born artist), it also boasts views of Bootham Bar. At York Art Gallery you’ll find internationally-important collections spanning over 600 years and works ranging from 14th century Italian panels and 17th century Dutch masterpieces to Victorian narrative paintings and 20th century works by LS Lowry and David Hockney. Plus, it holds the most extensive and representative collection of British Studio Ceramics.

• Only 2 miles from the city centre you’ll find Middlethorpe Hall, that’s set in beautiful grounds. The garden full of unusual and interesting treasures scattered throughout a maze of small gardens, which include a ha-ha, white garden, walled garden, small lake and some beautiful specimen trees.

• We're lucky to be in an area with many English Heritage locations, including; Clifford’s Tower - 1000 years ago this was York’s royal castle, ruling over the whole of northern England. Within its intriguing ruins, you’ll unearth hidden histories – and enjoy kings-eye views of the city on the roof top! Treasurer's House, a historic house full of important collection from a 300-year period, collected by Yorkshireman Frank Green as he travelled the world. You'll also find an award-winning, tranquil city garden and café, that’s free to enter on open days.

• Further out the city you’ll find more inspiration with National Trust venues including Beningbrough, Goddards, Nunnington Hall, and Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal Water Garden, all with stunning gardens and parklands to take in the Yorkshire countryside.

Walking, Trails and Tours

Walking in York is a pleasurable journey through time and beauty, and York’s famous City Walls is a fun and free way to explore the city. The 3.4km stretch are the longest and best-preserved medieval walls in England, offering breath-taking views and inviting cafes – every step unveils a new discovery. City Walls Experience at Micklegate Bar is the perfect introduction to the city’s historic city walls – the most complete walls of any city in the country. Not far from here, you’ll find College Green, our newest green spot in the city is nestled among independent cafes with a fantastic view of York Minster.

One of the best ways to explore the landmarks and historic cobbled streets is on foot with a tour or trail. Led by an expert guide or you can set your own pace with a self-guided walk or trail, it’s a sure way to uncovering hidden secrets. Tailor your journey around your own interests, including; history, culture, ghostly sightings, quiz solvers, cat trails, murder mysteries, food adventures, photo walks or pub explorations - there's a trail for every taste. Or follow your sweet tooth and take a mouth-watering wander through the city to discover the history behind York’s chocolate foundation with the York Chocolate Trail. Visiting in the first weekend of February? Don't miss the popular annual Ice Trail!

The riverside offers easy meandering paths along the River Ouse adding to the serenity, while the abundance of green spaces and cafés provide perfect spots for leisurely breaks. Go wildlife-spotting by the river, looking out for otters and the rare tansy beetle – found nowhere else in the world but York. Plus, just a short walk from the city centre, Rowntree Park is perfect with play areas for families to let off steam and take a break at the park’s cafe. With its easy-access paths and cycleways, York’s riverside is a beautiful place to take a breath.

Top tip: The best spot for kite-flying is the Knavesmire, just a little bus ride away from the city centre, it’s also home to the world-famous York Racecourse.

Eco Travel

Many of our local businesses are sustainable tourism champions, including our local bus service First York, a UK leader in sustainable transport, with its fleet of zero-emission buses. First also offer York Park & Ride - with six sites, you can park securely for free and catch one of the frequent electric buses into the city centre, ensuring a hassle-free and eco-conscious day out.

Take a look at our food heroes itinerary for food and drink inspirations, and our stays for top relaxing luxurious spas.