York’s thriving independent scene is what gives the city it’s character and charm. The city celebrates and encourages people to support it’s local businesses to ensure they can continue to grow and thrive. From café’s, boutique shops, restaurants and galleries York offers it’s residents and tourists some extraordinary alternatives to the usual high street brands.

 

Coffee stops or fine dining?

York has an abundance of independent restaurants and cafes. Coffee shops to grab a cuppa on your commute to work, a café to cosy up in the afternoon with some cake and a warm hot chocolate or some fancier places if you’re interested in the finer dining that York has to offer.

 

Although the convenience of Starbucks and Costa is hard to resist as they seem to be wherever we go, I’d highly recommend giving some independent coffee shops a go. We’d first recommend Everett’s which is right near the minster so it’s perfect if you’re in York visiting the sights. The delightful coffee, homemade baked goods and friendly staff make for a great pit stop on your tour of the city. Coffee Culture is another hidden gem that not only serves the usual coffee, teas and baked goods, but also serves shakes, chai, smoothies and paninis for lunch.

coffee shop york

If you’re interested in spots for fine dining then take a look at the roundup of Restaurants in York in 2021.

 

To help you keep fit in the new year…

As the health and wellness industry expands, with new ways to workout popping up every week, we want to raise awareness for those independent businesses in York that offer more unusual ways to keep fit.

 

Jorvik Tricycles is an adult tricycle company based in York that believes everyone deserves to feel how amazing it is to be outside in the fresh air cycling. Their tricycles want to rekindle the joy of cycling for everyone, including those who are no longer able to cycle on traditional bicycles. It can become hard for those with learning or physical disability, health issues or other challenges to balance, pedal and steer all the same time on a bicycle.

 

Cycling in general is a good way to keep fit, improve your cardiovascular and aerobic fitness. You are able to tailor the intensity of your workout to be low-impact or high intensity dependent on your capabilities. Those who want to challenge themselves can try cycling uphill to build resistance and raise their heart rate. However, the third wheel on tricycles offers more stability and support. This allows those with learning or physical disabilities, health issues and other personal challenges to tailor their exercise to their abilities whilst getting outside and enjoying cycling again.

 

For some retail therapy…

There’s no better way to get to know York than weaving down the narrow cobbled streets, wandering in and out of coffeeshops, pub and boutique shops. These small, independent business are owned by some creative individuals so some real treasures can be found if you take a look inside. Here are a couple of our recommendations if you’re ever visiting.

 

The best way to give your home a refresh is to invest in some new artwork for the walls. You can head down to Ni Studios to take a look at the original art work, print and photography on offer or you can discuss commission pieces – there’s always a friendly face to talk to!

 

york residents festival

 

There is also Palenque, which is an independent jewellery shop. They work closely with a team of skilled artisans in Mexico to design and create unique jewellery. This sterling silver specialist is situated a stones throw from York Minster. Whether you live in York or you’re just visiting the city, this little jewellery shop is the ideal place to either treat yourself or to find some gifts for loved ones.

 

 

 

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