Trip to York, United Kingdom

Day 1: Exploring the Historic City

Today, you’ll start your journey by exploring the historic city of York by foot. Begin with a visit to York Minster, one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Northern Europe, marvel at its stained-glass windows, intricate architecture and go on a rooftop tour for incredible city views. Next, head to York’s chocolate shop: The Shambles. This cobbled lane is dotted with charming little shops selling handcrafted chocolates and other goodies. Afterward, visit The National Railway Museum for an insight into Britain’s railroad history, featuring vintage locomotives, interactive displays, and even Harry Potter’s train! End your day by taking a stroll around the city walls, medieval bridges, and historic gatehouses.

Day 2: Castle Howard and Yorkshire Sculpture Park

Start with a visit to Castle Howard, a historic country house set in the Howardian Hills northwest of York – it has several landscaped gardens and exhibitions to explore, while the house itself is laden with paintings, furnishings, interiors, and awe-inspiring architecture. After lunch, head to Yorkshire Sculpture Park which is around 50 km from York. This is a world-renowned open-air museum, featuring contemporary art sculptures among the 18th-century landscaped gardens and historic buildings. Particularly great exhibits include ‘The Human Condition’ by Sean Henry, and tony Cragg’s ‘Outspan.‘

Day 3: Shopping Day

Spend the day indulging in retail therapy at York’s shopping hotspots. Start your day by visiting The York Designer Outlet. This mall is brimming with designer fashion stores, from Tommy Hilfiger to Armani, Nike, and Adidas to mention a few. Take a break for lunch at Betty’s Tea Room for some British afternoon tea, before heading to Shambles Market for unusual souvenirs such as antiques, jewelry, organic food, and books. Walk around Gillygate, which is home to many independent businesses, including vintage stores, artisanal food retailers, and unique clothing shops.

Day 4: Day Trip to Leeds

Take a quick day trip to Leeds to explore the museums, galleries, and shopping centers in this bustling city. Begin your trip by visiting the Royal Armouries Museum, showcasing more than 8,500 exhibits of weaponry and armors used by monarchs and soldiers from the medieval times to present-day. After that, visit the Leeds Art Gallery, one of the best regional galleries in the UK, holding over 20,000 pieces of ancient and contemporary art, including paintings, ceramics, and sculptures. End your day with a shopping spree at the Trinity Leeds, an enormous shopping mall boasting over 100 shops, restaurants, bars, and cafes.

Day 5: York’s Ancient Sites

Today, explore the ancient sites in and around York beginning with a trip to the Roman Baths located in the city center where you can see the remains of the Roman dwelling, which includes a hypocaust system, changing rooms, and hot and cold plunge pools. After that, drive towards Pickering (around 30 km from York), and take the Pickering to Whitby Rail Trail. This 27.5 km route traverses the North York Moors, the Esk Valley, and the quaint village of Goathland, which will fascinate train lovers, Harry Potter fans, and wildlife enthusiasts as you pass ancient woodland, heather-covered hills, and serene waterfalls.

Day 6: York’s Culinary Scene

York draws inspiration from its neighboring countryside, sea and farmlands, and has a dazzling food culture boasting an extensive range of artisanal food producers, restaurants, and street foods. Begin your day by visiting The Hairy Fig Deli, sampling handpicked cheeses, artisan bread, and homemade chutneys. After lunch, consider visiting York’s Cat Cafe for a unique and memorable culinary experience. Here, you can sip on exotic coffees and teas while petting cats that have been rescued from various circumstances. You can also get some snacks for them – they are cuddly animals and will sit on your lap while you enjoy your coffee. And for dinner, head out to one of York’s Michelin-starred restaurants such as Roots, Skosh, or the renowned Star Inn at Harome.

Day 7: River Ouse Boat Trip

For your final day in York, take it easy and enjoy a relaxed 60-min boat tour on River Ouse. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the cityscape as you glide under historic bridges and past Saint Peter’s School – a famous public school where Guy Fawkes, the 17th-century gunpowder plotter, once lived. The tour will take you past King’s Staith Landing, which once formed the heart of the city’s thriving shipping industry. Then, spend the afternoon browsing unique shops in Fossgate and Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma-Gate before ending your trip with a fine dining experience and drinks at one of the city’s chic cocktail bars. Don’t forget to raise a toast to your amazing trip to York!