If Yorkshire is to be hailed as God’s Own Country, then York deserves the credentials of God’s Own City. Woven together with cobbled streets and beauty spots unlike any other city in its proximity, York is a place that is often reduced to tourist tales of its viking heritage, and notorious hen and stag-do reputation. But what lies beyond that surface-level attraction is a city rich with deep-rooted community and thriving independent businesses, against a backdrop of decadent medieval, Georgian, and Victorian architecture. Whether you’re planning a solo escape or a staycation with friends, there’s no shortage of hidden gems beyond the usual hotspots.
Walk the city walls
Originating in 71 AD, during the Roman era, the York City Walls were built to protect the 9th Legion from locals. Today, the walls are a much more welcoming asset to the city, inviting tourists to walk them and soak in the city’s serene, olde-worlde landscapes.
The City Walls Trail is signposted, and free to follow, opening from 8:00am to dusk every day. The trail isaccessible by steps at different spots across the city, meaning you can start and stop at your own leisure.
Some of the best stops along the trail include the botanic Museum Gardens, which are free to visit and the York Art Gallery (Adult tickets are currently £8.50 and child tickets (ages 5-16) are £5.10, under 5s are free).
Perk up with York’s best brews
York’s coffee culture is second to none, boasting some of the cosiest artisan spaces in and around Yorkshire. From humble, homely cafes like Osbornes at 68 to the quirky Australian horsebox that is The Dark Horse Espresso Bar on the popular Shambles Market, there are plenty of options dotted about the city.
No matter what you do, you can’t leave York without stopping for a coffee at Heppni Bakeri and trying, arguably, the most decadent pastries within the city. Just a stone’s throw from the York Minster, the bakery came on to the scene last year, and has garnered both local and national acclaim for its Scandinavian delights ever since. With pastries available from £3.50 and £6, try their Nduja and hot honey swirl or almond croissant — you won’t be disappointed.
Eat your way round the city
North Yorkshire is home to some of the best produce in the country, not to mention chefs. With Tommy Banks making a name for the city through the Michelin-starred Roots (from £95 for a tasting menu), and many more refined eateries — such as Skosh (small plates from £5–£25), Melton’s (around £85 for three courses), and The Star Inn The City (mains typically £20–£35) — dominating many a York food guide, there is a proud and esteemed culinary scene bubbling away for foodies to explore.
But tasting what York has to offer doesn’t have to break the bank.
Tucked beneath the streets in an atmospheric cellar opposite Micklegate Bar lies Delrio’s. Serving up delectable Italian dishes with Sardinian influences, you’ll get to experience one of York’s most hospitable and welcoming foodie spaces, perfect for group dinners and celebrations. Be sure to try the gnocchetti sardi — a classic Sardinian short pasta, beautifully complemented by sausage, chilli, and a rich tomato sauce.
If you’re looking for something more solo-friendly, head on down to Spark, a vibrant outdoor eatery in an upcycled shipping container and home to some of York’s most promising food start-ups. Dishes across the bustling lineup of stalls generally fall between £10 and £18, with highlights including the succulent chicken souvlaki wrap from the family-run SASA Greek Street Food, the boldly flavoured lemon chipotle burrito from Latin American favourite Vovó Cantina, and the crave-worthy capricciosa pizza from Rad Pizza Shop.
Get hands-on at a creative workshop
A great creative scene also exists within the city. With a huge array of independent businesses adorning the city streets, there’s always something creative to get stuck into.
The Outside In, located just outside of the city walls, is a humble but exquisitely charming plant studio that offers a range of workshops, from terrarium making to plant still-life socials, allowing both individuals and groups to immerse themselves in the world of art and nature away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Prices range from £10-45 a class.
If you’re looking for something more on the artistic side, you can find pottery studio, Bish Bash Pot, right down Walmgate. Available for individual and group bookings, you can wind down here and paint your own creations for a deposit of £5.
Grab a ticket to a live show
While not globally renowned for its music scene, apart from birthing the Britpop sensation Shed Seven, York’s grassroots music and comedy scene remains a huge asset to locals, anda must experience for anyone visiting.
For a real taste of York’s local hotspots, Micklegate Social is the ultimate starting point. Offering up The Den, it’s underground basement space that is home to some of York’s most intimate DJ sets and open-mic comedy nights, in addition to a cozy but cool cafe and bar upstairs, it’s a hub that offers both culture and community. A must–visit for those looking for their next event.
Alternatively, you can visit the grassroots venues that bring a spark of energy to the city’s calmer corners. From the Fulford Arms — hosts to past rising stars IDLES and current alt trailblazers, GIRLBAND! — to The Crescent — a community-owned space host to everything from D&B DJ and tribute acts to emerging bands, there’s always something going on in the city that’s worth tuning in to.
Words by Ruby Brown
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