Summer in York

Summer in York is packed with things to see and do from sunrise to sunset. Visitors can discover unique attractions, explore beautiful gardens and immerse themselves in the city’s rich history throughout the day, before unwinding in the evening and making the most of an overnight stay in York.

Pop into the Visitor Information Centre, where the friendly team can provide tips and inspiration to help you make the most of your time in York. Pick up useful visitor information and browse York-themed souvenirs in the gift shop.

In the heart of York, explore the iconic Shambles Market all year-round and discover a variety of products from independent traders. When you need a break from shopping and sightseeing, head to the nearby Shambles Food Court for a delicious bite to eat.

To make the most of your visit, pick up The Visit York Pass, offering access to more than 30 attractions and helping you save time and money while exploring the city.

Follow Visit York for the latest inspiration, events and ideas for your next visit.

Plan Your Summer Visit to York

Black Swan Garden Room

Book Your Summer Stay ▸

York offers a wide range of accommodation, from hotels to self-catering getaways, giving you an eclectic choice of inviting places to rest your head after a day of exploring.

Whats App Image 2026 08 11 at 12 07 15 1

Visit York Information Centre & Gift Shop ▸

Based in the heart of the city, our friendly assistants are here to share their expert local knowledge of attractions, travel information, places to eat, shops and events with you.

IMG 2418 1

Shambles Market ▸

Visit the iconic Shambles Market for local shopping, and discover the nearby Shambles Food Court for mouth-watering street food.

VYP square Sept 2024 1

The Visit York Pass ▸

Maximise your summer with the Visit York Pass - the ideal way to save money whilst visiting York's amazing attractions!

Summer1

Gardens in York ▸

It’s time to get out into the fresh air, embrace nature, and enjoy some of the wonderful gardens in York! These green spaces are perfect for those who love walking through the city.

Family Pickering Platform North Yorkshire Moors Railway 1

Family Friendly ▸

There are plenty of things to see and do for your little ones over the summer holidays. Whether you want to keep busy with attractions or have a picnic in the park, York is the perfect place for families.

Shambles

Evening Tours ▸

With the sun setting later, summer is the perfect time for an evening tour. Whether you want a walking tour, relaxing boat trip, or enjoy a self-guided trail, York has plenty of evening tours to suit all visitors.


Daffs cropped

Save money while sightseeing with a Visit York Pass!

York's official sightseeing pass which gives entry to top attractions in York, including York Minster, City Cruises York, JORVIK Viking Centre and more!

Buy Now
York pass Phone Mock Up white qr

Why get a Visit York Pass?

🏰 Save money on 35+ attractions 

🏰 Quick and easy to use

🏰 Includes 24 hours city sightseeing bus ticket

It's the only ticket you need!

Explore Visit York Pass
1slideryp3

What's On in York this Summer

See all Summer Events

Check out this year's exciting summer events in York

English Tourism week 151 Large
English Tourism week 151 Large
Dog friendly white
1st Apr 26 - 30th Sept 26

The York River Taxi

York River Bus: City Cruises

NT22 F7 GW
NT22 F7 GW
3rd Jul 26 - 20th Sept 26

Summer of Play at Beningbrough

Beningbrough - National Trust

Image Right
Image Right
Family friendly white
10th Apr 26 - 13th Sept 26

Tommy Treebark's Wild Adventure

1 Wizard Walk of York main graphic
1 Wizard Walk of York main graphic
Indie york white
1st Feb 22 - 1st Jan 27

Wizard Walk of York - WINNER Best Tour 2026

Wizard Walk of York - WINNER Best Tour 2026

Outdoor York Museum T
Outdoor York Museum T
11th Sept 26 - 13th Sept 26

Picturehouse Outdoor Cinema at The Museum Gardens

City Screen

Visit York Hero image 2200 x 875 px 4
Visit York Hero image 2200 x 875 px 4
Family friendly white
13th Jul 26 - 30th Sept 26

Wizarding Afternoon Tea at The Grand, York

The Grand, York

Zine Club
Zine Club
Evenings white
18th Sept 26

Zine Club

Thin Ice Press: the York Centre for Print

2200 x 875 14
2200 x 875 14
Family friendly white
13th Sept 26

Brainiac Live

Grand Opera House York

0001 Chris Chambers
0001 Chris Chambers
Evenings white
10th Sept 26

Vineyard Wedding Showcase with Folletti Fleurs

Carlton Towers

Special Offers

See all Offers

Save money by utilising these brilliant offers from our partners!

2026
Indie york white
18th Sept 26 - 27th Sept 26

York Food Festival Chocolate Celebration

York Cocoa Works

The York Food and Drink Festival returnsFriday 18th - Sunday 27th September 2026With so many amazing flavours and skill…

520836916 756970290027340 1190489699064748182 n
Family friendly white

10% Off with Wizard Walk Of York!

The Puzzling World of Professor Kettlestring

We’ve partnered with the amazing Wizard Walk of York to offer a spellbinding bonus just for our visitors!When you book …

Fire and tree through window
Evenings white
24th Dec 26 - 26th Dec 26

Christmas House Party 2026

Middlethorpe Hall & Spa

A Traditional Christmas with StyleEnjoy a traditional Christmas in the setting of this elegant 'William and Mary' count…

Visit York Homepage 16
Evenings white
1st Dec 26 - 23rd Dec 26

The Cosy Festive Retreat

The Black Swan at Oldstead

Escape to the countryside this Christmas season with an overnight stay at The Black Swan. Enjoy a seasonal cocktail by …

Frequently asked questions

How much time should I allow for a summer day out in York?

Allow a full day, from early morning through the evening, to experience the itinerary as intended, with flexibility to shorten or extend individual stops depending on your interests. If you need more time, why not book an overnight stay?

Is York suitable for families with children?

Yes; there are plenty of summer experiences suitable for kids. Whether you want a family-friendly attraction or seasonal events, there is plenty of things to see and do in York. Read more about things to do in York with kids here ▸

What should I bring or wear for a summer visit to York?
Wear comfortable walking shoes and sun protection, bring a water bottle, and include a light layer for cooler evenings while exploring York in summer.