Itinerary
This is York: Where Stories Come To Life
Two thousand years of history, laid out before you.
Stories of Vikings. Of railways. Of everyday lives. Of faith. And of wild landscapes.
Stories shaped by people, places and centuries of change. From city to coast, ancient monuments to sweeping open spaces, York brings past and present together in one extraordinary destination.
York has a yarn to spin, with a little something for everyone.
Amongst centuries of stories, come and discover yours.
Multiple Days
Locations
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In this Itinerary
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York Minster
Discover one of the world’s most magnificent cathedrals, a masterpiece in stained glass and stone and a sacred space which has been at the centre of Christianity in the north of England since the 7th century.
The Minster was built for the glory of God and this is reflected in every aspect of this ancient building, from the exquisite handcrafted stone through to the unrivalled collection of medieval stained glass.
York Minster remains a thriving church and everyone is invited to join our daily services, including choral Evensong sung Tuesday to Sunday during term time by the Choir of York Minster, visit to pray or light a candle or simply spend time absorbing the atmosphere of the cathedral.
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York Castle Museum
Explore 400 years of York’s history all under one roof at the award-winning York Castle Museum.
Experience the sights, smells and sounds of the past through immersive galleries including the world-famous Victorian street, Kirkgate, original York Castle Prison cells, Sixties Street, World War One gallery and much more.
Discover Yorkshire’s social history through fascinating objects and exhibitions, and interactives, storytelling, talks and trails that bring the past to life.
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JORVIK Viking Centre
Discover the Original Viking Encounter at JORVIK Viking Centre!
With its world-famous ride taking visitors around the sights, sounds and smells of Viking-age York, and galleries showcasing a unique collection of 1,000 year old artefacts, visit JORVIK Viking Centre to discover York’s fascinating Viking legacy.
All customers must pre-book their tickets to JORVIK Viking Centre.
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National Railway Museum
Home to iconic locomotives and fascinating collections, explore feats of engineering and extraordinary stories as we celebrate 50 years of the National Railway Museum. We’re marking our birthday with the reopening of Station Hall on 26 September 2025 where you can immerse yourself in the atmosphere of York’s former goods station, discover opulent royal carriages and explore the history behind a busy station, its people and their journeys.
Entry to the museum is free, and there is something for everyone to enjoy.
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North York Moors National Park
The North York Moors National Park is one of the UK’s most extraordinary places, established in 1952 the 554 square miles of fabulous countryside, open heather moorland and rugged coast are worth exploring. From rolling panoramas and big skies to enchanting forests and idyllic dales, there’s a sense of peace and tranquillity here that’s hard to beat – and all this just 20 miles or so north of York.
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Which story will you follow?
York has provided a backdrop for wide variety of TV shows and films. Explore York and Beyond through on-location trails that bring film and TV stories to life.
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Visitor Information Centre
Welcome to York, a city steeped in history, culture, and charm. Before you embark on your exploration, make sure to drop by the Visit York Visitor Information Centre.
You'll find us at 28 Back Swinegate, right in the heart of York. We're your go-to place for information and assistance as you navigate all that York and its surroundings have to offer.
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Stay in York
Give yourself time to create more of your York story - stay for a few days to explore more of the city centre as your own pace, or use York as your base and explore further afield into the beautiful Yorkshire countryside .
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Shopping in York
York is home to a wide range of unqiue independent shops, high-street favourites and the famous Shambles Market. Support local Yorkshire businesses and take home treats and gifts to treasure from your visit to York.
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Eat & Drink in York
Don't forget to relax during your busy day of exploring York. Choose from the city's many independent restaurants and cafes, cosy pubs, or fine-dining. Discover Shambles Food Court for delicious, high-quality street food.
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Even More to Explore
Craving more? Venture beyond York and head to the countryside and quaint towns that surround the city centre. If you want a hands-on visit, explore our list of experiences. Browse our list of up-to-date events, or even more things to do here - there's always plenty of activities to keep everyone busy in York.
Walk on the historic City Walls, wander through the snickleways, and enjoy everything the city has to offer.