Days out to York from London
Venture to York, one of England’s best-preserved medieval cities, where its long history and lively culture make for a memorable trip.
Where is York and how can I get there from London?
York is located in the English county of Yorkshire in England, about 174 miles (280 km) north of London. You can travel there in around four and half hours by car or around two hours by train.
What are the best things to do in York?
With a history spanning thousands of years, a visit to the city of York is like stepping back in time. Beyond its medieval walls, you’ll find everything from immersive museums to music festivals.
Explore the town
If you ever desired a window into England’s ancient past, then look no further than York. History buffs will never be short of places to explore, as the city boasts some of the UK’s most iconic historic buildings such as the magnificent York Minster Cathedral and splendid Fairfax House. Be sure to visit Clifford's Tower, once used as treasury, exchequer, mint, gaol and seat of royal power.
Take a stroll along the City Walls and encounter impressive architecture dating back to the 13th century. Once an essential part of the city’s defences against its enemies, the walls have become a crucial part of York’s identity.
From the outskirts of the city to its very heart, spend a few hours wandering The Shambles. Rumoured to be the inspiration behind Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley, its winding cobbled streets and captivating crooked buildings are the perfect spot for picking up a special souvenir or enjoying an afternoon tea with a proper Yorkshire cup of tea.
Museums and galleries
Be sure to stop by some of York’s top museums and galleries, from the world-class collection of artworks at the York Art Gallery to interactive exhibitions at the National Railway Museum.
Don’t miss the chance to discover the fascinating story of York’s most formidable warriors at the JORVIK Viking Centre – take a journey through reconstructed Viking Age streets and uncover thousands of unique artefacts. Or do your best to survive the curse of a wicked witch, come face-to-face with highwayman Dick Turpin and take on The Torturer at The York Dungeon.
Unmissable activities
Hop aboard a Ghost Bus Tour to uncover the more sinister side of York. Your creepy conductor will introduce you to some questionable characters as you do a spot of spooky sightseeing.
Swap your bus tour for a delightful cruise along the river Ouse, or play skipper on a self-drive motorboat seeing the sights riverside style!
York has become a haven for foodies thanks to the many exciting eateries on offer. Beer lovers look no further than Brew York to sample your favourite tipple. Take a guided tour of the Tap Room and taste a selection of delicious craft beer.
Learn the art of the chocolatier at York’s Chocolate Story, which has everything you need to satisfy your sweet tooth. Savour handmade fresh chocolates, from salted caramel to bubblegum, and be sure to grab a cup of its world-famous hot chocolate.
What are the best day trips and tours to York?
Discover a number of day trips to York below, along with tours that you can enjoy once at the destination.
Explore the beautiful city of York on a round-trip rail journey from London. Upon your arrival, head out to discover this enchanting city at your own pace, popping into a local cafe or restaurant for a bite to eat in between all the exploring.
What's included: Return train tickets from King's Cross Station London to York with the option of adding an Open Top Bus Tour in York and tickets to Clifford's Tower.
Cost and duration: Tickets for this tour start from £96 for children and £102 for adults (aged 15 and over).
Make the most of your visit to York with this Hop-on Hop-off Open Bus Tour that includes over 20 stops across the city. Tick off all the city's major attractions and historic landmarks including York Minster and Clifford's Tower, enjoying interesting facts and stories told by your professional guide as you sit back and enjoy the view.
What's included: A hop-on hop-off open-top bus tour around York and a professional onboard guide. Audio guides are also available.
Cost and duration: Tickets start from £9 for children and £16 for adults – family and concession ticket options are also available. Choose from a 24-hour or 48-hour ticket that is valid from the moment your board the bus.
Step aboard the midnight black bus where you'll embark on a journey around York, uncovering the more sinister side of the city. On this one hour and 15 minute Ghost Bus Tour, your curious conductor offers up a spooky narrative of the strange places and colourful characters you'll encounter. Discover York's darkest secrets on this comedy horror tour.
What's included: Ghost bus tour ticket and professional guide and onboard actors.
Cost and duration: Tickets for this tour are £14 for children and £18 for adults – concession and family options are also available. The tour will last approximately one hour and 15 minutes.
Explore the city's cobbled streets and twisting alleys on a guided Wizard Walk of York tour. Led by the Wizard of York himself, wander York's iconic streets in search of creatures including a phoenix, frog, gargoyle and more. The magical and humorous tour is perfect for families, with regular stops and photo opportunities aplenty!
What's included: One-hour and 15-minute guided walking tour.
Cost and duration: Tickets for this tour are £10 for children and £10 for adults. The tour will last approximately one hour and 15 minutes.
Join a York Early Evening Cruise for an hour of entertainment from your captain where you can enjoy historic tales of this medieval city. Grab yourself a drink from the onboard bar and do some sightseeing from the comfort of the heated saloon.
What's included: One-hour sightseeing cruise and live commentary.
Cost and duration: Tickets for this tour are £14 for adults (aged 16+) and £8.50 for children (5 to 15 years). Cruises are available daily from 17 May to 25 September departing at 7.30pm or daily from 26 September to 20 November departing at 6pm.
It's time to sit back and relax on this 70-minute Floodlit Evening Cruise. End a wonderful day of exploring with a ride along the river, enjoying a hot beverage or a glass of bubbles as you listen to a mix of jazz and swing music while spotting illuminated landmarks along the waters edge.
What's included: One hour and 10 minute cruise, a glass of sparkling wine or a hot drink with a snack, comfortable cruise boat with bar and restroom.
Cost and duration: Tickets for this tour are £15 for adults and £13 for children (5 to 15 years). Cruises are available daily 17 May to 25 September, departing at 9.15pm each evening.
What better way to enjoy the British classic dish of fish and chips than by pairing it with beautiful views of the Minster city? Accompanied by music and a live captain's commentary. As you sail through York, tuck into the award-winning Mr Chippy fish and chips while learning about the city's history.
What's included: One hour and 30 minute cruise, fish and chips or vegan/vegetarian main alternative, on-board bar with local beverages and snacks, music and live commentary.
Cost and duration: Tickets for this tour are £22 for adults and £16.50 for children (5 to 15 years). Cruises are departing at 13.30pm.
FAQs
What is the best way to get from London to York?
The best and quickest way to get from London to York is by train. You can take the LNER train from King's Cross Station, which is a non-stop train to York. You can relax and take in the scenery while you travel and there are refreshments on board you can purchase.
How long is the train journey from London to York?
The train journey from London King's Cross to York takes approximately two hours.
Is York, England a walkable city?
York is one of the smaller cities in England and is very walkable, especially since the town center is mainly flat, which makes it easy to explore all the charming streets and attractions on foot. The city is filled with stunning architecture and you can find lots of walking maps and tours to find your way around.
