Because my love for York is so strong I wanted to share my top 5 places that you must definitely visit if you ever find yourself heading to our wall-lined City soon!
1. Betty’s
How could a post not include this divine place! I love heading here when you have a special occasion such as a birthday or anniversary. Everything is so regal and delicate, but the afternoon tea is absolutely divine. I visited back in October where I got to try the Lady Betty’s Afternoon Tea and it was something else. I’ve been licking my lips ever since I went and can’t wait to visit again! If you don’t have time to sit down and enjoy the delights, head to the shop and pick up a handcrafted box of chocolate macaroons, my favourite. All this talk of Betty’s is making me want to go, maybe a visit is in order for my little sister’s birthday in December.?
2. Rowntree’s Park
This place is absolutely free, unless you want to buy yourself an ice cream to enjoy whilst wandering around the gorgeous gardens or play park. I’m so fond of this place, especially as it has a river-side location to the south of the city centre, I love being close to the water which is why I think I’m drawn to this place. As a child I’d happily play in the park but really my main joy was from being near the river feeding the ducks. I would be so content (I even would be now) The history behind the park is that it was gifted by the Rowntree’s cocoa factory to commemorate workers from the factory that fell during the war. It’s so peaceful and a great place to reflect.
3. York Castle Museum
This has to be by far my favourite museum of York. Sat just beneath Clifford’s Tower this place has so much to offer. There’s a Victorian street scene that you can walk through, a swinging sixties fashion display and you can even venture in to what was York’s historic prison cells. It’s a pretty eerie place too, with many a ghost stories and sightings here. It’s easy to see why with all it’s history. Despite that, it’s a really interesting place too with short term exhibitions such as ”Cradle to Grave” being one of my (morbid) favourites. I remember in my primary school days we went on a school trip dressed as a little Victorian school child and had to have a day in the life of a Victorian, the ”teacher” was extremely strict, but it was so much fun. If you were a York kid, you’ll remember this day out I’m sure!
4. The Shambles & Stonegate
If you ever get lost in York, be sure to fall on to the Shambles or Stonegate. Winding, thin, cobbled streets are home to some of York’s finest boutique and independent stores. The architecture of these buildings are something to behold and are some of the prettiest streets you will ever come across. It really transport’s you back to what it must have been like many moons ago. A great shop to visit is Saffron’s of York – it’s the cutest little gift shop!
5. A boat down the River
A perfect way to see any city is by boat, you can get a completely different perspective and view of the city from water. I for one feel so completely at ease and relaxed when I’m near water which is why this is a must-do experience in York. You can hop on a river tour where you can watch the world and be driven along the waters or alternatively you can hire one of your own little boats and head out exploring yourself on the River Ouse. A really fun day out!
Are you in love with your home town? What would your must-see things be for your city? Or alternatively have you been to York & fallen in love with the place? What exciting things did you get up to?
Bee xxx
Follow me on Twitter | Instagram | BlogLovin | Pinterest | Facebook
I love to hear from my readers! Leave me a comment 🙂