Contrary to popular methods, holidays don’t require a tropical destination or thousands spent on flights, especially when we live in a country as beautiful as the United Kingdom. Amid the cost of living crisis, holiday-makers are looking to save money more than ever, but that doesn’t necessarily mean our downtime should be sacrificed.
Staycations can involve a weekend or week away from our typical surroundings as we venture into some of England’s most intriguing hot spots. London, Cornwall, and Devon are some of the most common options, but the Northeast beauty of York, including its 13th-century Gothic architecture, shouldn’t be overlooked.
Today, we’ll take a look at what this ancient city has to offer. So, if you’re planning a staycation in York, don’t neglect some of the best things to do below.
Shop Like It’s the 14TH Century in The Shambles
Believed to have served as the model for Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter films, York’s Shambles is the bustling centrepiece of the city. Streets bearing this name were common locations for butcher shops and meat markets in the fourteenth century; in fact, the streets were intentionally small to protect the meat from the sun. Modern overhanging timber-framed buildings include quaint tea houses, shops, and independent businesses.
Wander around the Higgledy-piggledy alleyways to find oddball stores such as Monk Bar Chocolatiers, Potions Cauldron, and The Shop That Must Not Be Named.
Explore a Seventh-Century Cathedral at York Minster
In virtually every location in York, the magnificent Minster towers over the city. However, you’ll really want to observe it up close. Enter the refreshing interiors and appreciate the mediaeval stained-glass windows, intricately carved stone, and shimmering antiques. Ensure you visit the Chapter House: this captivating octagonal chamber from the 13th century features remarkable vaulting and preserved, intricately carved gargoyles, although it is located at the far end of the Minster, making it a true hidden gem.
Don’t forget to wear appropriate footwear and ascend the 275 stairs to see the vista from York’s greatest elevation. With some luck, you might catch the peregrine falcon nesting serenely adjacent to a gargoyle.
Take a Short Drive to Opera House Casino
Fancy a short drive to engage in some casino thrills? Look no further than Opera House Casino!
The Opera House Casino in the coastal resort town of Scarborough offers exactly what is unique about a casino situated in the boundaries of an old grade-listed structure. Originally designed to accommodate a circus in its early years, the structure was later converted into a theatre and a music hall before turning into a casino in 2002.
With its stunning architecture and rich history, this North Yorkshire casino isn’t like the best online slots; it’s one of the top UK casinos recommended by experts. Players can enjoy various games, including live mahjong if they so desire, touch bet roulette terminals, and Las Vegas-style slot machines. After their daily game is over and done with, players may stroll outdoors and savour one of the most rocky coasts the United Kingdom has to offer while breathing in the clean sea air.
Serene Sailing Down the River Ouse
York’s primary river is the Ouse, which winds up to the Humber Estuary after first cutting a route through the city.
Riverside walking paths, ideal for post-lunch walks, provide a lovely scene. From the Millennium Bridge to Clifford’s Tower, follow the river to see some of York’s finest landmarks. You can also schedule frequent riverboat excursions or cruises.
Top Tip: Take the early evening cruise, and you will be treated to sunset sights that will halt you for consideration (and pictures). There is a lively onboard commentary, and the boat carries a well-supplied bar should you want an evening cocktail.
Luxurious Afternoon Tea at The Grand
Want a fancy afternoon tea in the sole 5-star hotel in York?
Treat yourself to some grub at one of the city’s most magnificent locations without busting the budget. With savoury and sweet selections piled neatly and created in-house by some of the top pastry chefs in the nation, the Grand’s distinctive afternoon tea boasts 20 different varieties of teas from across the world.
Don’t take our word for it: in 2023, they received Conde Nast’s finest afternoon tea award from the UK! On a sunny summer day, you can savour your scones, tea, and drink on the terrace with great views of the city walls.
Culture Vultures Should Head to The Barbican
In York, the Barbican is the biggest theatre and music facility.
From well-known bands to live comedy, there is a range of goings-on, including sports, children’s entertainment, and community activities. Rich in history, this is a major theatre and cultural centre in the city where great musicians have performed. Comprising more than 200 events annually and drawing about 130,000 guests, the schedule is always loaded.
A Day Out at the Horses
Grandstands and elegant listed structures define this award-winning contemporary racetrack and performance venue.
Enjoy any one of the seventeen happy race days between May and October. Not a fan of races? Not a problem; the racetrack hosts fashion events, music, and even a vintage garments festival.
Top tip: The season’s most anticipated event is the Yorkshire Ebor Festival, known for its classy and somewhat posh atmosphere.
