From exploring historic sites and cultural venues to enjoying its many outdoor spaces, the city of York is teeming with budget-friendly attractions.
Walkers traverse the ramparts of the ancient York Walls (Photo: Paul Joseph)
Steeped in over 2,000 years of history, this fabled city in the north of England is famed for its eye-catching architecture, medieval streets, and Roman and Viking heritage. One of the UK’s most popular mini-break spots, York isn’t just a historical treasure trove; it’s also a fantastic city to explore without spending a fortune. Whether you’re wandering through picturesque streets or soaking up its cultural offerings, there’s plenty to enjoy on a budget, with many activities offering great value for money. Here are 7 of the best.
Walk the City Walls
A must-do for history buffs and anyone wanting to see York from a different perspective, walking the York City Walls is scenic, full of fascinating landmarks and completely free of charge. Spanning 2.5 miles, these ancient walls date back to Roman times and offer spectacular views of the city as you stroll along. Accessible from dawn to dusk, visitors can explore at their own pace, stopping at points of interest such as the famous ‘bars’ or fortified gateways. A full circuit of the walls typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on your pace and how often you stop to admire the views or explore the various points of interest along the way.
Explore the history of the railways
A visitor poses in front of an exhibit at the National Railway Museum (Photo: Paul Joseph)
Tucked away just a stone’s throw from York’s bustling centre, the National Railway Museum is an absolute goldmine for train lovers. Even better, it’s entirely free to wander through this captivating journey through British rail history. Step inside, and you’ll be met with iconic locomotives like the Flying Scotsman and the Mallard – some of which you can even jump aboard and role play at being a passenger from yesteryear – as well as interactive displays that bring the story of the railways to life. Whether you’re five or fifty, there’s something enchanting about the hum of history in the air here.
Leeman Road / Mon-Sun 10am-5pm
Discover York’s Viking heritage
Another renowned attraction that won’t break the bank, the JORVIK Viking Centre (named after the Old Norse name for York) offers a playful dive into the city’s Nordic past. But this isn’t your average museum – it’s in fact a fully interactive experience that propels you into the Viking era with all the subtlety of a horned helmet. As you navigate the recreated streets of 10th-century Jorvik, you’re hit with sights, sounds and smells straight from Viking life – from the clanging of blacksmiths to the scent of freshly baked bread. It’s a whirlwind of history with a hefty side of fun. Family-of-four group tickets are available for £46 and children under 5 go free
19 Coppergate / Mon-Sun 10am-5pm
Join a guided walking tour
The Wizard of York entertains tour guests (Photo: Paul Joseph)
One of the best ways to discover York is by joining a guided tour of the city. There are several tours available and one of the most popular is hosted by the self-proclaimed Wizard of York, an award-winning magician who takes guests on a magical adventure full of family-friendly historical insights and wizardry. As you explore the city’s hidden corners, uncovering mystical creatures tucked away in secret spots. you’ll be entertained with fun-filled magic, comedy and intriguing tales from York’s history. It’s ideal for children aged 5 and up, with no ghosts or frights; just laughter and joy. For an extra magical touch, upgrade to include Wizard Wand Kits for spell practice at home. Private tours are also available for a more personalised experience.
Look around a medieval tower
A view of the imposing Clifford’s Tower (Photo: Tim Green via Flickr / CC BY 2.0)
Originally part of York Castle, the rich history of Clifford’s Tower includes the crucial role it played during the Norman conquest and its tragic past, tied to a 1190 massacre of York’s Jewish community. Located just a short walk from York’s city centre, visitors can admire the tower’s impressive exterior for free, but for a deeper dive into its history, you can go inside for just £6.50 (with discounted rates available for children and seniors) where there are various exhibits and displays. Intrepid types can also climb to the top for panoramic views across the city.
Tower Street / Mon-Sun 10am-4pm
Create your own magic potions
Nestled on the Shambles, one of York’s most photographed streets thanks to its crooked, timber-framed buildings dating back centuries, The Potions Cauldron is a bewitching stop – quite literally. The front of the tiny store is brimming with quirky gifts, from glittering trinkets to spell-binding potions that make for great souvenirs. But step through to the back and things get even more riveting. Here, kids and adults alike can craft their own magical brews, selecting ingredients that fizz, bubble, and pop, all guided by an entertaining host. Be warned, there’s some frights along the way, but there’s no denying it’s a riot of fun, with just the right mix of wonder and whimsy for both the young and the young at heart. Experiences start at just £6.49 per person.
9¾, Shambles / Mon-Fri & Sun 10am-6pm Sat 10am-7pm
Visit a historic Georgian townhouse
Set on a quiet street in York, a 5-minute walk from the city centre, Fairfax House is a glorious slice of Georgian elegance. For the reasonable price of £8.50, you can enter a world where opulence meets history, and every room has a story to tell. Once home to a wealthy merchant, the grand house is a veritable time capsule of 18th-century luxury, from the intricate woodwork to the striking décor. There’s no shortage of things to admire, and for those who prefer a bit more insight, guided tours are available to enrich your visit.
FairFax House, Castlegate / Mon-Sat 10am-5pm Sun 11am-4pm