Top 7 things to see in York

Take a step back in time and enjoy the peaceful, old English way of life in York. Enjoy strolling the cobbled streets and visiting the famous Shambles street that is scattered with quirky, ancient buildings that seem to be built well before building regulations were introduced. Just one of the many unique charms of York, a place that everyone should visit at least once in their life. From my day in York, here is my Top 7 things to see and do.

Number 7 – National Railway Museum

All aboard! No matter if you’re into trains or not, a quick visit to the National Railway Museum is both informative and interesting. Take a seat in a first class carriage of an old English train or find out about the super speedy Japanese bullet train.

The Musuem is free but they do ask that you leave a donation.

Hogwart’s Train

Number 6 – York Castle Museum

Take a walk through history at the York Castle Museum that showcases information, antiques, photos and interactive activies dating back to the Victorian era and all the way up to the current day.

The Musuem costs £8.50 for adults.

Number 5 – Clifford’s Tower

Clifford’s Tower is the last standing remains of York Castle and offers a great vantage point for peering into the town and surrounding areas. If you’re a member of the English Heritage (which I would recommend if you are visited a few heritage listed sites) than a climb up Clifford’s Tower is free. For everyone else it is £4.

Clifford’s Tower

Number 4 – York’s Wall walk

If you would prefer a free view of the historical area, find one of the remaining entrances to the town and climb the tower to walk along the wall. If you plan to walk the whole York wall it will take you approximately 1 to 1-1/2 hours but you can get on and off at four different spots.

The town’s wall walk

Number 3 – The Shambles

Probably the most iconic street in York, The Shambles is famous for its overhanging buildings and cobbled surface. It is home to many antique stores and quintessentially English shops perfect for the street’s character.

The Shambles

Number 2 – Betty’s Tearooms

Betty’s tearoom has been around for 90 years and is one of the best places to treat yourself to a Yorkshire cream tea. There are two Betty’s in York, both as popular as one another. Their homemade sweets are extremely tempting and extremely delicious. I can imagine if a visited this tearoom when it opened 90 years ago, I would have received an equally delicious scone served by friendly, passionate waitresses in a similar posh but comfortable setting.

Traditional Yorkshire Tea at Betty’s

Number 1 – York Minister

Wherever you stand in York, you’ll be able to catch a glimpse of the York Minister. Similar looking to Westminister, York Minister is the town’s beautiful, old abbey. It costs £8 to explore inside or you can attend a service for free.

York Minister

Enjoy York, it is a true gem of England.