Free things to do in York, Yorkshire
Last Updated on August 13, 2023 by Lauren Allen
Travelling on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing cool experiences. In fact, most cities across the globe offer many activities that don’t require spending a single penny. York is one of them. Here is a complete list of 12 free things to do in York that you can enjoy on your next trip!
Read more: Elmbank Hotel and Lodge, York | An honest review
Table of Contents
What can you do for free in York, Yorkshire?
1 | Stroll down The Shambles
One of the most popular free things to do in York is taking a stroll down The Shambles. This iconic medieval shopping street is world-famous for being the inspiration behind J.K Rowlings Diagon Alley. Due to this, the street receives millions of visitors each year.
Top tip: To avoid crazy crowds, you will need to wake up early. If you are hoping to snap some photos without people in them, aim to get there for sunrise.
2 | Visit the National Railway Museum
Interested in trains or transport? Then head to The National Railway Museum. Here you will see a large number of iconic trains including a Japanese bullet train. Furthermore, you will learn the history behind the UK railways and discover how they impacted the country then and now.
Top tip: As one of the most popular York attractions to visit with kids, the museum gets busy at weekends. If you wish to avoid the busier periods, consider visiting during the week. Also, don’t forget to book your free ticket online in advance.
3 | Admire York Minster
York Minster is an architectural gem of the city. The incredible Gothic spires can be admired from several locations across the city centre. A stroll down Low Petergate and King’s Square during sunset is one of the best ways to admire the cathedral from afar.
Although there is an entry fee of £11.50 to visit the Minster, it is 100% free to marvel at the exterior. Furthermore, entry into the Minster is free if you wish to attend a service. These services are held daily. However, please note that you will not be free to roam during this time. If you want to explore it in its entirety, you have no choice but to purchase a ticket.
4 | Take a walk through St Marys Abbey
Built in 1088, St.Marys Abbey is now in ruins. The impressive Grade 1 listed building is beautiful and one of the most photogenic locations in York. Once you are done snapping photos, you can spend some time admiring the museum gardens and taking in your surroundings. On a hot summer’s day, this is one of the best things to do in the city.
5 | Go on an Instagram mission
York is one of the prettiest cities in the UK. This means that there are many cool places to take photos. With a few hours to spare, spend some time hitting up the most Instagrammable locations in York. Afterwards, you will have a wealth of content to share on your Instagram page that will receive a lot of love! Trust me.
6 | Visit the cities churches
If visiting the York Minster isn’t enough, there are a number of other churches in the city worth checking out. For example, St Marys is nearby and open for visitors. Furthermore, St Martin Coney Street and St Olave’s Church can also be added to your list amongst others!
Please note: St Marys often houses exhibitions. You will likely be refused entry unless you wish to purchase a valid ticket. To avoid disappointment, check online in advance.
7 | Walk the city walls
Next up, walking the city walls can not be missed. This popular York attraction is completely free and offers some incredible views. Despite being unticketed, the gates to the city walls close at dusk which means you will need to plan your walk in advance.
Read more: Free things to do in York, Yorkshire
8 | Wander along the river Ouse
Adventurous travellers may be interested in a boat cruise along the River Ouse. However, with a minimum fee of £10, you may put off if you are visiting York on a budget.
If you are looking for a free alternative, a walk along the river is just as nice and doesn’t cost a dime! Plus, strolling hand in hand with your lover along the river is a romantic thing to do in York at any time of year.
9 | Go window shopping
York is home to many great shops. These include your standard high street retailers along with charming independent stores. If you’ve got some time to kill, consider doing a spot of window shopping. It’s a great way to spend an hour or two!
10 | Join a free walking tour
Free walking tours are one of the best ways to familiarise yourself with a new city. There are many benefits to joining them that you may not be aware of. They allow you to get your bearings and discover interesting facts that you otherwise may not have learnt. Free walking tours in York are no different.
If you have a few hours to spare, join one of the following tours to hit up the cities highlights including The Shambles, York Minster and the city walls:
Read more: 8 great reasons to join free walking tours
11 | Visit York art gallery
If you are into art, you may be happy to know that the York art gallery is free to visit. The gallery houses a variety of art pieces including paintings, ceramics, glassware, pottery and much more.
12 | Relax in Dean Park
Lastly, parks are a great place to relax after being on your feet all day. If you are treated to nice weather during your trip to York, make the most of it by spending some time in Dean Park. Grab some food and enjoy a nice picnic for lunch. Alternatively, spend some time reading a book, admiring your surroundings or taking a stroll.
How to visit York on a budget:
If you are visiting York on a budget, there are several ways to save some cash. Here’s how to explore the city without breaking the bank:
Make the most of these free things to do in York
By enjoying the free activities listed above, you will save a lot of money. Although visiting York Minster is well worth the £11.50 entry fee, these costs certainly add up if you are on the road for a long time. However, that isn’t to say that you shouldn’t visit any of the York attractions.
If there is something you really want to do, factor it into your budget. That way, there is no need to feel guilty for overspending as you have already planned for your trip. Besides, travel is about enjoying yourself. Don’t feel bad about spending a little more money if you know you will appreciate the experience!
Read more: Day trips from York worth adding to your bucket list!
Consider purchasing a York Pass
If you plan on visiting many of Yorks attractions in a short space of time, buying a York Pass could save you money. However, this is something that you need to consider carefully. What is the cost of each attraction? How many attractions can you visit in a single day? What would you spend without the York pass? How does that compare to the price of the pass? You will need to think about these things before making a purchase.
Take advantage of cheap accommodation
Staying in pricey hotels will eat up your cash at an alarming rate. Alternatively, staying in hostels does not. Not only is staying in a dorm room cheaper, but hostels often come with kitchens and cooking equipment. This means that you will spend a fraction of the cost of eating out. All you need to do is take a trip to the supermarket!
For example, Astor York Hostel offers super cheap rates and a full kitchen with everything you might possibly need to cook up a storm. Why not take advantage of that?
Read more: 10 reasons to stay in a hostel on your next trip
Travel with a friend
Lastly, travelling with a friend means you have somebody to split cots with. For example, if you are not a fan of hostels, you could book a nice hotel and split the price. This is great as it means you can stay somewhere more luxurious without overspending. Don’t underestimate how much you can save!
So there we have it, a complete list of 12 free things to do in York to ensure your budget-friendly trip leaves you with incredible memories. Have you been to York? Feel free to share your tips in the comments below!
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