York has it all – from its historic cathedral to quaint cobbled streets and top-notch pints
CLIMB the Minster steps, drive your own river boat and then relax by sipping secret cocktails, says Celebrity Editor Kelly Allen.
Here’s what’s in store for a weekend away in York.
Shop on ‘diagon alley’
At 233ft tall and dating back to the 7th century, York Minster is an absolute must-see.
It’s so beautiful, it’s no surprise Ellie Goulding got married here in 2019.
Be sure to climb the 275 steps of the tower’s super-narrow spiral staircase for 360-degree views of the city. Minster and tower entry costs £22 (Yorkminster.org).
Meanwhile, no one can visit York’s Roman streets and Viking alleyways without wandering down The Shambles, the 14th-century, shop-lined, cobblestoned street with striking similarities to Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley.
You’ll likely see at least one person brandishing a wand and casting spells.
Later, hop on a self-drive boat along the river Ouse to admire the city from the water, from £35 an hour for up to eight people (Cityexperiences.com).
Sip a historic pint
York has a whopping 365 pubs, which may be a few too many for one weekend (we tried).
But House of Trembling Madness should be high up your hit list.
Expect a huge collection of beers – seek out the Northern Monk Eternal IPA, £4.50 – and mega sharing boards of local treats, such as pork pies, smoked ham, cheeses, chutney and artisan bread, from £8.50 (Tremblingmadness.com).
Cocktail addict? Stop by The Fossgate Social – by day, a cute coffee shop; come evening, a bar serving top-notch espresso martinis, £8, and an excellent playlist (Fossgatesocial.com).
Breach the walls
Walking the full loop of the city’s medieval ramparts takes two hours, but hidden gems lie just outside them.
For beautiful and sustainable homeware, hit Snow Home (Snow-home.co.uk) and Heima (Heima.uk) on Gillygate.
Sun shining? Hunt out Love Cheese’s secret garden with its delectable selections served alongside wine (Lovecheese.co.uk).
Little Blondie Bakehouse is also well worth the short stroll.
Inside its bright-pink facade is sweet-tooth heaven – think chocolate and espresso brioche and incredible stuffed cookies, £4 (Facebook.com/littleblondiebakehouse).
Scoff coffee pork
Looking for a really special meal?
Melton’s serves up the likes of Orkney scallop with Crown Prince squash and venison loin in an intimate setting with the friendliest staff.
Three exquisite courses plus nibbles costs £68 (Meltonsrestaurant.co.uk).
Meanwhile, sustainable restaurant Forage has a huge array of delicious small plates, and nothing goes to waste.
Coffee grounds become the glaze for pork belly, £11, while old carrot tops are transformed into vodka for the Carrot Top cocktail, £9.95 (Forageyork.com).
Step through the secret bookcase door to bar Wild By Forage for total Narnia vibes, then order The Elephant, The Witch and The Wardrobe – an eclectic mix of Amarula, white chocolate liqueur, vodka, brandy and rose syrup, £9.95.
Kip with a view
A collection of five historic buildings, Middletons Hotel is within walking distance of all the city’s hotspots.
Most rooms offer views of the Minster and the breakfast menu is extensive, with a fine eggs benedict.
The best bit?
Doubles start from £99 per night, though if you’re with the whole family, we’d plump for a cottage room sleeping up to six people, from £199 per night (Middletonsyork.co.uk).
FYI
Guy Fawkes was born here – and you can grab a drink at his actual birthplace, The Guy Fawkes Inn.
Plan your trip at Visityork.com.
Trains from London to York cost from £19.80 (Lner.co.uk).