York makes a fantastic mini family city break. It is one of our favourite destinations.
Check out "My Guide to a Mini Break in York" for recommendations for where to stay, eat and visit in York.
Things to do in York
Jorvik Viking Centre – This must see attraction in York just won the tourism award for 2022. Take a ride around the sights, sounds and smells of Viking age York in there immersive model Village.
York Minster – standing in the cities walls is the 250 year old gothic cathedral which is breathtaking to look around, there is a free explorer backpacks children can collect to make looking around the Minster more interesting but my favourite bit is thats you can pay extra and climb the 275 steps of the Central Tower to get the best views across York.
York Castle Museum – immerse yourself in 400 years of history in the museum stood on the grounds of York Castle. This is a perfect day out for the whole family. Children will enjoy the interactive parts as well as getting locked in the prison. While adults will enjoy looking back at vintage toys and homes from the 19th century along with the exhibition all about the 60’s. Your entry ticket can be used for 12months so you can keep that for next time your visiting York.
York City Walls -take a elevated walk along the historic city walls. This is a free activity and is open from 8am till the sunsets. To walk the full circle takes 3.4km and about 2 hours. There are plenty of places to get up on to the walls and you can even download an audio trail for it.
Hole in the Wand – An indoor 9 hole wizard themed mini golf course. Try and pot your ball while surrounded by bubbling cauldrons, floating books in the enchanted library and stand in a giant picture frame where you become part of the painting. Wizard golf with a potion drink for every player is available from just £6.99 per person.
Wizard Walk of York – there is an amazing wizard who you meet at the top of the Shambles and he leads a group of you around York. It’s perfect for children but the adult will love it too. It’s funny and entertaining and will have you laughing the whole time. It’s full of magic tricks as well as quick witted jokes so is a must on your visit.
Where to Eat in York
Ate O’Clock – the food, service and atmosphere of this restaurant is amazing. A great selection of dishes available like pasta, steaks and burgers as wels as a good children’s menu and set menu. A slightly dearer place to eat but the food and decor makes it worth it. It’s perfect for a special meal with friends or family. Why not grab one of their signature cocktails too.
The Taylor Made Kitchen – if you’re after a super quick but amazingly tasty lunch while wondering around York this is for you. The shambles Market has a number of food vans there on a permanent basis and Taylor Made is our favourite. Serving American style food including the best macc and cheese, loaded nachoes, loaded fries and burritos. The portions are great for the price and the food just tastes amazing. Great flavour combinations and you can see why they are award winning.
Valhalla – this quirky rock pub is a favourite of ours. It’s cozy and rustic at the same time. With great music playing and interesting guest beers and ciders. A relaxing dining experience with deli boards of cheeses, meats and fish to snack on while having a drink.
Where to Stay in York
Churchill Hotel – This independent Hotel is situated just a 10 min walk from York Minster. It’s a grade 2 listed mansion with gorgeous decor inside and a lovely beer garden with heated igloos. They have great family rooms where the children have proper single beds and plenty if space to move about. Book direct to get the best deals.
Marriot Hotel – This hotel is by York Race Course. It’s a 20min walk from the centre but its a nice simple walk. The family rooms are a mix of 2 double beds or sofa beds. It serves a great buffet style breakfast with plenty of choices. There is a cozy bar which has a good menu for the evening too.
Holiday Inn – a cheap and cheerful hotel which is only 5 minutes walk to the castle museum. Their family rooms have sofa beds for the children and are clean and we have always found the staff really helpful. The breakfast isn’t much more to add onto your stay and always has a good choice of hot and cold breakfast items.
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