Local area

York Chocolate Story celebrates the city’s rich chocolate-making heritage. This attraction invites guests to discover York’s pivotal role in the chocolate industry, from the origins of famous brands like Rowntree’s and Terry’s to hands-on chocolate-making experiences. Guided tours provide insight into the history and craftsmanship behind beloved treats, ending with delicious tastings. A visit to York Chocolate Story is perfect for chocolate lovers and those curious about the city’s sweet legacy.

Visit York Cocoa House to see passionate chocolate makers continually inspired by the magical transformation of cocoa to chocolate. Crafting fine chocolate in York, proudly following in the footsteps of York's pioneering chocolate makers. Join an experience to learn more about York Cocoa Works, the origins of cocoa and craft your own creation to enjoy later. Indulge in a rich and smooth hot chocolate made using chocolate flakes from the onsite café.

The Shambles is a historic, narrow medieval street lined with charming timber-framed buildings dating back to the 14th century. Once home to butcher shops, today it hosts unique boutiques, cafes, and gift shops that preserve its old-world charm. Known for its overhanging buildings and cobblestone pathways, The Shambles is one of York’s most photographed and popular attractions. It is a must-visit for those seeking a glimpse into the city’s storied past and vibrant culture.

Sit back in a deck chair and watch as over 200 of Van Gogh’s artwork projected onto the walls of St. Mary’s Church, York. The animated show, accompanied by a soundtrack, lasts for 35 minutes. Create your own artwork and have it projected on the wall. Extend your visit with a unique VR experience (extra charge applies).

Jorvik Viking Centre brings York’s Viking history to life with immersive exhibits and archaeological displays based on discoveries from the Coppergate dig site. Explore reconstructed Viking-era streets, interact with historical artifacts, and experience the sights and sounds of 10th-century York. This engaging experience offers a deep dive into Viking culture and daily life, making it an educational and exciting attraction.

Set sail with a sightseeing cruise on the River Ouse to learn all about the city’s history and see the sights from a different perspective. The river has had a significant impact on York’s development and the skippers will share their knowledge with you. If you fancy being the skipper of your very own boat and having your own adventure, then why not take a self-drive motorboat out. With seating for up to 8 guests, you can enjoy a leisurely sail for up to an hour.

See live entertainment at the Grade II-listed theatre in the centre of York. The theatre plays host to West End musicals, stand-up comedians and live bands.

If you dare, explore York's dark history in the depths of York Dungeon. A terrifyingly entertaining attraction in which characters tell stories against specially designed sets. With special effects and 10 live shows to walk through, you’re guaranteed many laughs and screams.

The flat racecourse located on the Knavesmire has been home to horse racing in the city since 1731. However, racing in the city can be traced back to Roman times. The season runs from May to October and includes the oldest and richest Ebor Festival in August, a popular meet for centuries. The racecourse is also home to several other events throughout the year, including the Living North Christmas Fair, Comic Con and an Antique Book Fair.

Located a 5-minute walk from us is York Barbican, the largest entertainment venue in York. The venue hosts comedians, musicians, and the annual UK Snooker Championships in its jam-packed calendar.

York Minster is one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Northern Europe, known for its stunning medieval architecture and magnificent stained-glass windows, including the Great East Window. This structure offers visitors a journey through centuries of history, with guided tours, an interactive Undercroft Museum, and panoramic city views from the Central Tower. Whether exploring the awe-inspiring interiors or attending a choral service, York Minster is an experience in York’s historic heart.

The Grade I building, which is just a short walk from us at Fossgate, is one of the finest medieval guild halls in the world and is still owned and used by the Merchant Adventurers of the City of York today. Built as a religious fraternity in the 14th century, a trading association was formed alongside it and the hall was used for business, social meetings, to look after the poor and pray. Today, you can visit the timber-framed building and learn more about the building's long history.

See the city and its sites while learning all about the city’s vast history from local, knowledgeable guides. Hop on and off as you please with 21 stops and tickets valid for 24 hours – it’s a great way to see and learn more about York.

The magnificent building on Exhibition Square overlooks the York City Walls and the York Minster. A statue of York-born artist William Etty stands in the square, and the gallery holds the largest collection of his work, alongside works by L.S. Lowry and Hockney. Three exhibitions can be found on the ground floor, with a further four on the first floor, two of which are home to the Centre of Ceramic Arts (CoCA), which houses a collection of over 5,000 British studio ceramics.

York City Walls, the longest medieval town walls in England, encircle the historic city and provide stunning views of landmarks like York Minster and the River Ouse. Walking the two-mile route offers a unique perspective on York’s layered history, from Roman foundations to medieval fortifications. With multiple access points and interpretive panels along the way, the City Walls are ideal for a scenic stroll that blends history, architecture, and breathtaking panoramas.