Are you planning a trip to York but on a tight budget? Don’t worry, there are plenty of free attractions and activities to enjoy in this historic city. From exploring beautiful gardens to visiting fascinating museums, York has something for everyone.
In this article, we will be sharing the top free places to visit in York that you won’t want to miss. Some of the entries in this article do have entry costs if you want to go inside and look around, but you can admire their architecture from the outside for free.
York Art Gallery
If you’re interested in art, you should definitely check out the York Art Gallery, which houses an impressive collection of paintings, ceramics, and sculptures. The gallery also hosts temporary exhibitions throughout the year, so there’s always something new to see.
York City Walls
The City Walls are a great way to get a sense of York’s history while getting some exercise. The walls were originally built by the Romans in the 3rd century and have been added to and modified over the years. Today, you can walk along the walls and enjoy views of the city from above. There are several entrances to the walls throughout the city, so you can start your walk wherever is most convenient.
Clifford’s Tower (Outside)
Clifford’s Tower is a medieval castle that dates back to the 13th century. It was originally built by William the Conqueror and has since been used as a royal mint, a prison, and a gunpowder store. Today, you can climb to the top of the tower for panoramic views of the city and learn about its fascinating history. There is also a small museum on site where you can learn more about the castle’s past.
Clifford’s Tower is free to look at from the outside and take photographs of. There is an entry fee to enter the tower and it is included as part of the York City Pass.
National Railway Museum
The National Railway Museum is one of the most popular museums in York, and for good reason. The museum is home to over 100 locomotives and rolling stock, including the famous Mallard, the fastest steam engine in the world. You can explore the history of the railway, from its beginnings to the present day, and learn about the people who made it all happen.
You can get to the museum from York City Centre using the land train. This train costs £3.50 and is wheelchair accessible. The land train is included on the York Pass and picks up+drops off next to York Minster (which is also on the pass).
The museum is free to enter, but some special exhibitions may have an admission fee.
York Museum Gardens + St Mary’s Abbey
One of the best free attractions in York is the Museum Gardens. This beautiful green space is home to the ruins of St. Mary’s Abbey, which dates back to 1294. You can also explore the old St. Leonard’s Hospital crypt and enjoy the stunning floral displays throughout the gardens.
You can explore the history of York and the surrounding area, from the Roman period to the present day, and see artifacts such as the Middleham Jewel, a medieval gold pendant, and the Coppergate Helmet, a Viking helmet found in York. The museum is free to enter, but some special exhibitions may have an admission fee.
While at the museum gardens, why not also visit the York Castle Museum? This is a fascinating museum that showcases the city’s history. It features a range of exhibits, including recreated Victorian streets, World War II-era homes, and displays of vintage toys and clothing. The museum isn’t free to enter but is included on the York City Pass so you can get discounted entry. Entry is free for those on universal credit (a UK welfare benefit). Discounted tickets are available for disabled people and their carer.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for free things to do in York, the city’s museums are a great place to start. With a wide range of exhibits and collections, there’s something for everyone, and you’re sure to learn something new about the history and culture of this fascinating city.
If you’re looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of York’s city center, there are plenty of free parks and gardens to explore. Here are two of the best:
Walk along the river Ouse
Enjoy strolling alongside the River Ouse. This beautiful river is over 60 miles long and passes close to York’s city center.
One of the nicest walks takes you through Rowntree Park, over the Millennium Bridge, up along New Walk, and then over the Blue Bridge towards Tower Gardens. Just before Tower Gardens, you can choose to walk over the Skeldergate Bridge or continue on towards Lendal Bridge for a longer stroll. If you do continue on, you can continue walking towards the Museum Gardens where you’ll meet Lendal Bridge (pictured above).
Rowntree Park
Rowntree Park is a beautiful green space located just a short walk from the city center. It is named after the famous chocolate-making family who donated the land to the city in 1921. The park features a large lake, a children’s play area, and plenty of space for picnics and relaxation. There are also tennis courts, a skate park, and a basketball court for those who want to be active.
The Shambles
The Shambles is a must-visit street in York. This narrow, cobbled street is lined with timber-framed buildings that lean inwards towards each other, creating a tunnel-like effect. The street was originally home to butchers’ shops, and you can still see the meat hooks hanging outside some of the buildings.
Nowadays, The Shambles is home to a variety of independent shops selling everything from handmade chocolates to Harry Potter merchandise. Take your time to explore the street and its hidden alleyways, and don’t forget to look up to see the intricate carvings on the buildings.
Stonegate
Stonegate is another picturesque street in York that is well worth a visit. This street has a history that dates back to Roman times, and it has been an important route through the city for centuries.
Today, Stonegate is home to a mix of high-end shops, cafes, and restaurants. The street is particularly beautiful in the evening when the buildings are lit up, creating a magical atmosphere. Look out for the medieval building that houses the Ye Olde Starre Inne, one of the oldest pubs in York.
Both The Shambles and Stonegate are pedestrianized, making them perfect for a leisurely stroll. Take your time to soak up the atmosphere and explore the hidden corners of these historic streets.
Free Events
If you’re looking for some free events to attend in York, you’re in luck! There are plenty of options available throughout the year. Here are a few to consider:
York Festival of Ideas
The York Festival of Ideas is an annual event that takes place in June. It’s a celebration of all things arts and culture, with a range of free events on offer. From talks and workshops to exhibitions and performances, there’s something for everyone. The festival is designed to inspire and engage, so whether you’re interested in history, science, literature, or the arts, you’re sure to find something that piques your interest.
York Open Studios
York Open Studios is another annual event that takes place in April. It’s a chance for local artists to showcase their work and for visitors to get a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process. The event is completely free, and you’ll have the opportunity to meet the artists, ask questions, and purchase any pieces that catch your eye. There are over 100 artists involved, working in a variety of mediums, so there’s plenty to see.
There are plenty of other free events to enjoy in York throughout the year. Whether you’re interested in arts and culture or just want to try something new, there’s sure to be an event that appeals to you. Keep an eye on local event listings and social media to stay up-to-date with what’s on offer.
York Minster Cathedral (Outside)
One of the most popular attractions in York is the York Minster, a magnificent Gothic cathedral dating back to the 7th century. It is one of the largest cathedrals in Europe and boasts stunning stained glass windows, intricate carvings, and beautiful architecture.
York Minster isn’t free to enter, but you can still admire it’s amazing architecture from the outside. If you do wish to go inside York Minster, here at Discovering York we recommend getting the York City Pass. The city pass will give you access to many of York’s best attractions at a discounted price.
