Meta Description: Take a look at some of the top free things to do in York! Find out some budget travel tips, local customs, what foods to try and some crucial information to make the most of York.
Free Things to do in York: The Ultimate Guide to Budget Sightseeing in York, England
York is a historic city in the north of England known for its beautiful buildings, interesting history and culture. The good news for those on a budget is that there’s a lot of stuff to do in York that is free, so it’s a great option for those looking for a cheaper getaway. York has it all for history buffs, nature enthusiasts, or anyone who wants a taste of the city’s one-of-a-kind appeal. We’ll help you save some pounds by detailing the top free things to do in York, alongside a few recommendations for accommodation, travel, culture, and travel advice.
Daily Cost of Budget Travel in York
A trip to York doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Here’s your daily travel cost estimates if you choose to take a budget-wise trip:
Accommodation:
There are budget hotels in York from around £50 to £100 for a double room per night standard. If you’re traveling alone or with a partner, you can find even cheaper places to stay on Airbnb, for a room or an apartment you’ll be charged £30 to £60 a night.
Hostels are even cheaper, typically costing from £20 to £30 a night. There are many hostels in York which provide dorm beds and communal spaces for meeting other travelers.
Food:
Cheap eats: You might spend between £5 to £10 for a meal at a café at home or at a takeaway.
York has a thriving street food scene, with food trucks scattered around the city selling delicious meals from £3 to £6.
If you’re willing to cook, grocery shopping for staples — such as pasta, bread and vegetables — can cost between £15 and £20 for a week’s worth of meals.
Transportation:
The best way to make your way around York is on foot, as it’s a small city with lots to discover while walking.
Local buses are abundant and fares cost from about £1 to £3 one way.
If you’d rather rent a bike, it is available from £10 a day for a basic rental.
Activities:
The majority of the free things to do in York are centred around discovering outdoors spaces, historical sites and public parks.
After the eye-popping and impressive York Minster (entrance fee for inside visitation, but it’s free to visit outside) you’ll want to see the city walls and museum gardens, which are free to view.
An average budget traveler would spend in the range of £30 -£60 daily on accommodation, meals and transportation with free activities while in York.
Things to Do in York for Free
York is an historic city and some of its best attractions are completely free to visit. Here are a few of the best free things to do in York:
Walk the York City Walls
The York City Walls are medieval walls around the old city. Strolling around these old walls is an awesome and unique opportunity to get a panoramic view of York, and do you know the best bit? It’s totally free!
The walls are about 2 miles long, and there are several gates (including Bootham Bar, Micklegate Bar, and Walmgate Bar), all of which provide panoramic views of the city.
Visit the Museum Gardens
Museum Gardens The peaceful gardens in the heart of York are a haven for plant lovers, and the ‘ruins’ within them are over 1,000 years old!
The Yorkshire Museum is situated in the gardens, but entrance to the gardens is free. Take a serene walk and marvel at the Roman ruins and nearby St. Mary’s Abbey.
Explore the Shambles
The Shambles is the most well-known street in York and is a cobblestone street with little medieval shops on either side.
Stroll down this adorable street and feel like you’ve time traveled. Shambles It’s free to wander around, and although you might be tempted to buy something in one of the shops, walking through the Shambles is a treat on its own.
See York Minster, the second most important cathedral in England (Exterior)
The York Minster’s interior does require payment for entry, but the outside is open to anyone to visit and is simply gorgeous.
Marvel at the immense Gothic architecture of one of the largest cathedrals in Europe, and don’t forget to admire all of its delicate details and imposing facade.
Enjoy the River Ouse
The city of York is bisected by the River Ouse, and riverside strolls are a good means to unwind.
You can see the river from a variety of places, including Lendal Bridge and Rowntree Park. There are also numerous benches along the river to sit on and watch the boats go by.
Visit the National Railway Museum (Free Entry)
One of York’s top attractions is the National Railway Museum, and the really great thing is that it’s completely free!
The museum presents the history of trains in diverse exhibitions, from early steam-powered machines to high-speed contemporary trains. Definitely worth a visit for railway and British history fans alike.
Discover the Bar Convent Living Heritage Centre
The Bar Convent Living Heritage Centre offers free admission to its history displays and the tranquil garden.
It is a wonderful spot to soak up the history of the English Catholic community and to wander around the splendid convent gardens.
Take a Free Walking Tour
York has many free walking tours given by local experts.
There are tours on a range of themes, from York’s Viking history to its medieval buildings and ghost stories. In the lead-up to the tour, it is a time to reintroduce regular hand-washing, especially for such a hands-on activity,” Broom says. After your introductory front yard session, have your kids present before you (and no, they can’t squish together; they must give each other at least 3 to 6 feet) as you pull out tools and run through a few plant identifications.
How to Get to York from New York City
York is in the north of England, and so, while it’s not round the corner from NYC, finding it and arriving isn’t too difficult.
By Plane:
The most convenient way to travel there from NYC is to fly into Leeds Bradford Airport or Manchester Airport. You can catch a flight to the UK for as low as $400 to $800, depending on the time of year.
From there, catch a train or bus to York, which will take from 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on where you start.
By Train:
A direct train service runs from King’s Cross Station in London to York. The journey lasts around 2 hours, and tickets can be expected to cost from £20 to £40.
By Bus:
And if you want to save even more money, you can travel by coach from London Victoria Station to York. The trip is around 4-5 hours, and tickets are from £10.
Best Time to Visit York
The best time to go to York all depends on who you are and what kind of experience you’re looking for:
Spring (March to May): The city begins to blossom, and the weather is mild. It’s a perfect time to explore the great outdoors, from walking the city walls to touring gardens.
Summer (June – August): This is the height of tourism in York. Anticipate warm weather and crowded streets, although many fun free outdoor activities are still doable.
Fall (September to November): It’s the season when the weather starts to get cooler, and with the autumn colors in the parks and gardens, it’s a really pretty time to go.
Winter (December through February): This is winter, and it’s colder, but York’s Christmas markets and festive vibe make it a snug time to explore the city.
Local Culture and Specialties You Have to Try
The city of York has a varied cultural and historical heritage. Here are some specific foods and cultural experiences you shouldn’t miss:
Yorkshire Pudding: A traditional British pastry made from baked batter and is typically served with roasted meat and gravy.
- Fat Rascals: A classic Yorkshire scone, usually enjoyed with butter and jam, best served with a pot of tea.
- Yorkshire Tea: Don’t overlook a good Yorkshire Tea with milk and sugar.
- Take a Trip to a Traditional Tavern: Have an ale at one of the ancient taverns in York, such as The King’s Arms.
Dpr Provides Safety and Travel Tips for First-Time Visits
Keep an Eye on the Weather: York can be damp, particularly in the wintertime, and so it’s best to have an umbrella or raincoat on you at all times.
Make the Most of Free Walking Tours: Free walking tours offer so much valuable information and are super fun to see the city from a local’s perspective.
Watch for Pickpockets: York is very safe, though you should keep your purse on a short leash in crowded tourist areas.
Be Mindful of Local Customs: While eating out, tipping 10% for good service is the usual practice.
Useful trip apps or other resources
Google Maps: To keep easy access around York and find things that are free.
TripAdvisor: To review recommendations and read about activities in York.
Trainline: Book trains and buses to and from York.
Citymapper: Perfect for you if you want information on public transport routes and live updates in York.
FAQ Section
What are the coolest free things to do in York?
Wander the York City Walls, visit Museum Gardens, and walk through The Shambles.
York: How much does it cost to get there?
An economical day in York would fall in the range of £30 to £60, including stay, food, and transport.
Is York a walkable city?
Yes, this city is very walkable, as most of the activities/interesting places are within walking distance.
How to travel from London to York?
You can also travel by train from King’s Cross Station to York or travel by coach for a cheaper alternative.
What is the best season to visit York?
Both spring and autumn are the prime times to visit, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds.