So, you’ve just moved to York. Boxes everywhere, kettle barely unpacked, Google Maps still open on your phone. Before life turns into a blur of work, errands and “we’ll do that soon”, here are five things you really shouldn’t miss in your first week living in one of the UK’s most character packed cities.
Think of this as your unofficial welcome tour.
1. Start with York Minster
York Minster isn’t just something you “should” see. It’s the kind of place that stops you mid sentence.
One of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Northern Europe, it dominates the skyline and somehow still manages to feel impressive even if you’re not especially into churches. The stained glass alone is worth the visit, particularly the Great East Window. If you’re up for it, climbing the tower gives you sweeping views across the city.
First week tip. Go early in the morning when it’s quieter. It feels completely different without the crowds.
2. Walk the city walls
York is one of those rare cities where you can walk a full loop of medieval walls in under a couple of hours and feel like you’ve travelled through centuries.
The two mile circuit gives you elevated views over rooftops, rivers and landmarks, and it’s a great way to get your bearings without feeling like you’re doing a formal tour. Locals walk it. Newcomers should too.
Pop on a podcast, grab a coffee and do the full loop. You’ll feel more settled afterwards.
3. Get lost on the Shambles
You’ve probably already seen photos of the Shambles before you even moved. Narrow, crooked and full of timber framed buildings, it’s one of the most photographed streets in England for a reason.
Yes, it gets busy. Yes, it leans into the Harry Potter style look. But it’s still worth wandering through, browsing the independent shops and spotting places like the York Ghost Merchants, where handcrafted ghost figures often sell out.
Top tip. Go early in the morning or later in the evening when the crowds thin out and the street feels more atmospheric.
4. Try one immersive experience
York is brilliant at bringing its history to life, so in your first week it’s worth picking one immersive experience and leaning into it.
The Jorvik Viking Centre is a classic. You ride through a recreated Viking settlement complete with the sounds and smells of tenth century life. It’s a bit quirky, slightly surreal and surprisingly memorable.
If Vikings aren’t your thing, York’s Chocolate Story is lighter and more relaxed, diving into the city’s chocolate making heritage. Or, if you’re feeling brave, join one of York’s famous ghost walks. They run most nights and make excellent use of the city’s narrow streets and long history.
5. Slow down in Museum Gardens
After a few days of walking, climbing and exploring, it’s nice to slow the pace.
Museum Gardens, set beside the River Ouse, is perfect for this. It’s calm, green and dotted with the ruins of St Mary’s Abbey, making it one of the best places in the city to sit with a coffee, read a book or simply watch the world go by.
It’s easy to forget you’re right in the city centre.
A couple of helpful first week tips
York is very walkable, but the streets around the Shambles can feel crowded, especially at weekends.
If you’re planning to visit several attractions, the York Pass can be good value and gives access to more than 35 places across the city.
And finally, if you are moving to York and need a reliable moving service, get in touch with The Box Co. at https://theboxco.co.uk today.
Welcome to York. You’ve chosen well.
