An Ideal Two Days in York England (With or Without Kids)

We made a last-minute excursion to spend two days in York, England during the Easter school break. In spite of our late decision, my husband, daughter, and I had a fantastic time exploring ancient towers, hunting for ghosts, and wandering through streets that have stood for centuries. York offered just the right mix of history and charm for a relaxed family getaway with Gothic grandeur and quirky shops.

You don’t need a long stay to visit the city of York, but it’s a perfect addition to a UK trip as it’s easy to reach and can be explored on foot. This 2-day York itinerary shares how we experienced the city at a comfortable pace, with a few helpful notes we wish we’d known in advance.

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Why Spend 2 Days in York

When I looked at photos and videos of York before visiting, I thought it looked like a storybook. History is everywhere here. You can sip coffee along a centuries-old city wall in the morning, walk along a medieval street in the afternoon, and watch the evening sunset over the rooftops from a hilltop fort.

There were moments on our trip where we were reminded that this is indeed a modern city, but it was remarkably easy to get lost in remnants of York’s past. We particularly loved how walkable everything was. York felt compact without being boring. It was also full of personality, from historic shopfronts to actors in costume leading ghost tours through the old streets.

Whether you’re stopping on your way between London and Edinburgh or looking for a relaxed destination for a spring getaway, York is an easy place to fall in love with.

Day 1 in York: Historic Views and Haunting Sights

Note: Each of the destinations listed in this itinerary is linked to its location on Google Maps to make finding your way easy.

Morning

Start your visit at York Minster, one of the most impressive cathedrals in Europe. If you’re up for it, climb the central tower for panoramic views over the city. Arrive early to avoid crowds and give yourself time to linger over the stained glass and medieval stonework.

Next, head to The Shambles, York’s famously narrow shopping street. Wander through the crooked timber-framed buildings and stop in for sweets, souvenirs, or quirky British gifts.

One of our favorite shops was The York Ghost Merchants, where you can choose your own miniature ghost to bring home. The shop is small and almost always has a queue, but it’s worth the wait.

Travel Tip: If the line outside The York Ghost Merchants is too much, try their second shop in St. Anthony’s Garden, just a short walk away. It has the same charming vibe and usually a much shorter wait.

Afternoon

You may hear about the Jorvik Viking Centre as a must-see. It’s one of the most visited attractions in York, featuring a ride through a Viking-era village complete with lifelike wax figures and animatronics. We skipped this one because our daughter found the wax figures way too creepy, but it could be a great choice for history lovers or less skittish kids.

If you prefer a quieter alternative, visit the nearby Yorkshire Museum and St Mary’s Abbey ruins in the adjoining gardens. It’s a peaceful spot to explore and take in some beautiful architecture. We walked through the ruins towards the end of our first day and really enjoyed the mix of tourists and locals who get to make this gorgeous space their local park.

Evening

Climb to the top of Clifford’s Tower just before sunset for a sweeping view of the city. The light over York’s rooftops is beautiful in the early evening and it’s a lovely place to end your day.

After dinner, join one of the city’s many ghost tours. Our experience on a ghost tour was good, but also a bit of a mistake. I didn’t book any tours before our trip and found all the best options sold out once we were there. We opted for a walk-up tour and ended up in a group of over 50 people. It was still fun, but felt a bit like a parade with so many of us walking from site to site.

Travel Tip: If you’re visiting during a busy weekend or holiday, pre-book a group tour for a better experience. I recommend the York: Forbidden Chronicles Ghosts and History Tour, which consistently earns top reviews.

Day 2 in York: Walk the City Walls and Shop for Unique Souvenirs

Morning

Start your day with a coffee in hand and a walk along the York city walls. These well-preserved medieval ramparts offer quiet views over the gardens and rooftops of the city. If you visit in the spring like we did, you’ll see daffodils blooming across the hillsides near the walls.

Travel Tip: Some of the most interesting entry points to the city walls are the gates at Micklegate Bar and Monk Bar. You can only access the walls from certain points, so look for the signposted stairs near the main gates.

If you didn’t stop by yesterday, leave time for a visit to the remains of St. Mary’s Abbey. If you’re visiting with kids or just need a slower pace, this area also offers plenty of space to relax and explore without rushing.

Afternoon

After lunch, treat yourself to some uniquely York shopping.

Stop into The Yorkshire Soap Company for beautifully wrapped soaps and bath treats with a theatrical twist. Then step into The Imaginarium, a whimsical shop filled with curiosities, paper goods, and gifts you won’t find anywhere else. Both stores are great for finding souvenirs that feel personal rather than generic. I’ve become a bit addicted to the honeycomb sugar scrub from The Yorkshire Soap Company that I first bought on this trip.

Another unique spot you should explore is Rookscroft and Co. This lovely shop sells gifts and books based on fantastical artwork and stories created by a Yorkshire artist. Don’t miss the miniature scene displayed in the counter.

Travel Tip: For an even more local shopping vibe, head to Fossgate, where you’ll find independent shops, cafés, and fewer crowds than the Shambles.

If you’re more interested in museums than shopping, you could spend the afternoon at the National Railway Museum or visit the Merchant Adventurer’s Hall, a 1350s timbered guildhall that’s home to museum exhibits and a cafe. Or simply take your time meandering through York’s quieter lanes and enjoying a final tea or pint before heading on to your next stop.

Where to Stay in York

York is a compact city, but your choice of accommodation can still shape your experience. For convenience, staying near York train station makes arrivals and departures easy. If you want to soak in the historic atmosphere, look for a place inside the city walls, where cobbled lanes and centuries-old buildings are right outside your door.

Travel Tip: I do have one cautionary tip to share about staying inside the city walls. On Saturday evening we were surprised to pass a few rowdy hen parties and even spotted a dance club operating inside an old church. York keeps its medieval look, but modern life definitely makes itself known on Friday and Saturday nights. Check hotel reviews for noise issues before you book in the city centre.

Here are my top picks by category:

Best Value: Hampton by Hilton York

We stayed here and loved how practical it was at a great price even though we booked last minute. Located a short walk from the train station and also just a short walk to the city center, the hotel is clean and modern. Our family of three stayed in a standard room with the sofa bed made up. A solid, no-fuss choice for families or first-time visitors.

Mid-Range: Middletons Hotel

This boutique-style hotel sits within the city walls, just minutes from major sights like Clifford’s Tower. It offers modern comfort in a series of historic buildings, plus on-site dining and a lovely garden setting. We walked by this hotel while exploring and I immediately noted it for our next return visit.

Luxury: The Grand, York

York’s most elegant stay, The Grand blends five-star comfort with historic charm. Originally a railway headquarters, this hotel features a full spa, fine dining, and beautifully styled rooms just outside the city walls.

Best for Families: York Riverside Apartments

For more space and flexibility, these centrally located apartments are ideal. You’ll get a full kitchen, family room setups, and easy access to both the station and key attractions. With apartments ranging as large as 4-bedroom, there’s plenty of space for even large families.

Where to Eat in York

York’s food scene was a surprise for me. Whether you’re craving a casual sandwich or looking to celebrate with a full-course dinner, there’s something here for every style and budget. Below are my top picks, organized by category for easy planning and linked to their location on Google Maps.

Quick and Casual

• Shambles Kitchen – Our favorite bite on our trip! This small street-front spot serves incredible sandwiches with slow-cooked meats (veggie options available) on delicious bread. A perfect lunch stop while wandering the Shambles.
• Brew & Brownie – Cozy brunch and great coffee near Museum Gardens. This would be a great place to stop during day 2 of the itinerary, just before you head into St. Mary’s Abbey. 
• The Perky Peacock – Tucked inside a medieval tower, this riverside café is worth the stop for its location alone.

Mid-Range

• SOPHiE – A stylish and warm bistro located inside a bridge tower at Skeldergate, just a short walk from Cliffords Tower. This is a great option for fresh, seasonal dishes in a truly unique location. 
• The Cut & Craft – Ideal for a lively evening meal. This centrally located restaurant does excellent steaks and offers stylish interiors without feeling too formal.

Special Occasion

• Melton’s – A little bit outside of York city centre, but worth the walk. Melton’s is a classy British restaurant that rivals what you’d find in larger cities. Reservations recommended, especially on weekends.
• Roots – A Michelin-starred spot just outside of St. Mary’s Abbey that offers creative tasting menus with ingredients sourced from local farms. Eating here is a worthwhile splurge that celebrates Yorkshire produce.

Traditional Pubs Serving Food

• The House of the Trembling Madness – Not sure “quirky” does this taxidermy-covered pub justice. This place is teeny and does not take bookings. Expect to share your table with some new friends. Great for rare beers along with your meal.
• The Black Swan – A lovely traditional timbered pub near Peasholme Green with a warm atmosphere and pub classics.

Final Travel Tips for Visiting York

• Explore York on foot. It’s the best way to see the city, so bring comfortable shoes for cobblestones and uneven streets. The historic city center is compact, and walking is the easiest way to see it all.
• How to avoid the crowds. Avoid peak weekend and school holiday times if possible. York also gets a big wave of day-trippers. Expect mid-day to be the busiest around major attractions, especially on weekends.
• Pre-book popular activities. Ghost tours and top attractions can fill up quickly, especially during school breaks or holiday weekends.
• Rainy day plan. If the weather turns during your trip, duck into York’s Chocolate Story for an interactive treat-making experience that both kids and adults will enjoy.

FAQs About Visiting York

Is York a walkable city?

Yes, York is very walkable. Most major attractions are located within or just outside of the historic city walls. If you are adding York as a stop between London and Edinburgh, you can easily walk to the city centre from the train station. Bring comfortable walking shoes, as many streets are cobbled and walking is the best way to see the city thoroughly.

How many days do you need in York?

Two days in York is the perfect amount of time for a first visit. It gives you enough time to see the highlights at a relaxed pace without feeling rushed. If you’re interested in more museums or day trips to the Yorkshire countryside, consider staying a third day.

Is York family-friendly?

Definitely. York has plenty to offer families, from interactive museums to ghost tours and riverside walks. To help little kids stay interested, consider a Wizard Walk of York tour that blends local history with magic tricks.