Renowned for its vast Gothic cathedral and medieval walls, the city of York in northeast England is enchanting at all times of year – but never more so than during the winter months.
(Photo: Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland)
Impossibly pretty and boasting a long – and often tumultuous – history, York is one of the UK’s most popular mini-break destinations, with enough to see and do to keep visitors entertained for days. What’s more, the compact centre is eminently walkable, with an almost endless choice of cafes and shops to duck into on those more bracing of northern days. Here are 7 of the best things to do here in winter that will leave you with cash to spare.
Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland
One of York’s most eagerly awaited festive events, Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland offers a captivating winter experience for all ages. Taking place through Christmas and into the New Year, visitors can look forward to an outdoor ice rink, vintage funfair, observation wheel and Santa’s Grotto, all surrounded by illuminated trees and log cabins, making for a magical setting. Entry to the event is free of charge, with chargeable tickets required for skating, funfair rides, observation wheel and other attractions.
Designer Outlet York, St Nicholas Ave, Fulford / Through 7 January 2024
National Railway Museum York
(Photo: Tony oldroyd via Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0 DEED)
An ideal indoor attraction for a rainy winter’s day, York’s National Railway Museum is free to enter and houses some of the most iconic models in the history of train transportation. Situated almost directly next door to the city’s actual city railway station, among the museum highlights are such famous trains as Stephenson’s Rocket, the Mallard, the Eurostar, and a Japanese bullet train, to name just a few. For refreshments, there are also on-site cafes serving hot food, snacks and drinks.
Leeman Road / Mon-Sun 10am-5pm
St Nicholas Fair
An award-winning annual event, St Nicholas Fair will once again take over the entirety of York’s historic core in the weeks and days leading up to Christmas this year. Over one-hundred alpine chalets will fill Parliament Street and St Sampson’s Square, with vendors peddling all manner of handmade gifts, locally crafted treasures, and tasty treats. Eye-catching festive displays and decorations, along with cheerful carol singing, will add to the occasion. The fair is free to enter.
Parliament Street & St Sampson’s Square / Through 22 December 2023
Carol singing at Gothic York Minster
(Photo: Werner Wittersheim via Flickr / CC BY 2.0 DEED)
For two days this December, York Minster’s popular Christmas Carol Concerts will ring in the ears of visitors to the beautiful cathedral. The Choir of York Minster, one of the UK’s leading cathedral choirs, will perform traditional and much-loved festive music, with seasonal readings by special guest, the BAFTA award-winning actor David Bradley, and the chance for the audience to join in with carols. The concerts take place in the magnificent setting of the Minster’s Nave and include music by the Yorkshire Volunteer Band. Tickets start at £15.
Deangate / 7-8 December 2023
The Shambles
Thought to have been the inspiration for Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter books, York’s most famous medieval street – the Shambles – is especially beguiling at winter time. Shop windows are festooned with colourful Christmas displays, as both locals and visitors throng the narrow cobblestoned thoroughfare, marvelling at the preserved timber-framed buildings with jettied floors that overhang the street. It’s a great place to soak up York’s festive atmosphere as well as a prime spot for picking up a locally-made souvenir or gift.
The Wizard of York tour
(Photo: The Wizard of York)
Join entertainer and magician The Wizard of York on a spell-binding hour of fun this winter featuring magic, comedy and a dash of York’s fascinating history. During the tour, you and your small group will be tasked with helping find several magical creatures hidden among some of the city’s various nooks and crannies as you traverse the York streets. Suitable for kids aged around 5 and upwards, there are no spooky ghosts or scary stories – just fun and laughter for all the family. Tours can also be upgraded to include Wizard Wand Kits, so children can practice their own spells and learn new tricks once they get home. Tour tickets cost $£9 for adults and children.
Betty’s Café Tea Rooms
(Photo: Matt Parry via Flickr / CC BY 2.0 DEED)
It speaks to the British obsession with teatime that Betty’s Tea Room has gained almost legendary status across the north of England. Situated in the city centre, the York outpost of this famed northern institution offers the perfect escape from the harsh winter climes. While the full afternoon tea – complete with elaborate cakes and scones – can be a bit pricey, there’s nothing to stop you hunkering down with an affordable cuppa and taking in the café’s refined interior before going on your way.
6-8 St. Helen’s Square / Sun-Fri 9am-5.30pm Sat 8.30am-6pm
By Paul Joseph