York 5 Day Itinerary

York 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the Historic City Center

  • Morning: Start your day with breakfast at Baker & Sons, a bakery offering delicious pastries and bread.
  • Afternoon: Visit the famous York Minster, the largest Gothic cathedral in Northern Europe, and wander around the city center to see its medieval architecture. Don’t miss the Shambles, one of the most famous streets in York with its overhanging timber-framed buildings.
  • Evening: Have dinner at The Star Inn The City, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering contemporary British cuisine.
  • Things to Know: York is a walkable city, but if you prefer, you can use the City Sightseeing York Hop-On Hop-Off Bus to explore the city.

Day 2: York’s Museums and Gardens

  • Morning: Visit the National Railway Museum, home to a vast collection of historic trains, including the iconic Flying Scotsman.
  • Afternoon: Explore the York Castle Museum, which offers an insight into life in York through the ages. Next door is the Richard III Museum, dedicated to the life and reign of Richard III.
  • Evening: Relax at the beautiful Yorkshire Museum Garden or have a picnic by the River Ouse.
  • Dinner: Dine at Skosh, offering innovative British cuisine in a cozy setting.

Day 3: Day Trip to the North York Moors

  • Morning: Take a day trip to the North York Moors National Park, less than an hour’s drive from York. Explore the scenic moorland, charming villages, and historic sites like Goathland Station (Harry Potter’s Hogsmeade).
  • Lunch: Enjoy a pub lunch at The Lion Inn, a 17th-century inn in Goathland.
  • Afternoon: Continue exploring the North York Moors or return to York for a relaxed afternoon.
  • Dinner: Try traditional fish and chips at The Golden Fry near the city center.

Day 4: York’s Ghosts and Legends

  • Morning: Join a ghost tour with Ghost Stories of York to learn about York’s haunted past. Alternatively, visit the JORVIK Viking Centre to delve into York’s Viking history.
  • Afternoon: Explore Clifford’s Tower and the nearby Bar Walls for more historical insights.
  • Evening: Have dinner at The Star Inn The Harbour, offering stunning views of the River Ouse and contemporary British cuisine.

Day 5: Relaxing in York

  • Morning: Spend your last day relaxing at the Merchant Adventurers’ Hall, a beautiful medieval guildhall, or stroll around Knavesmire Park and the surrounding area.
  • Lunch: Have lunch at Bettys Café Tea Rooms, a York institution known for its afternoon tea.
  • Afternoon: Take some time to shop for souvenirs or browse art galleries in York before leaving this charming city.
  • Departure: As you leave York, remember the rich history, friendly locals, and beautiful landscapes that made your trip unforgettable. Safe travels!