Make the most of free things to do in York.
In-the-know travelers have long been aware that the North of England is the place to go if you’re on a budget, with prices on accommodation, transport and dining all considerably cheaper than London and the south. The historic heart and cultural capital of Yorkshire makes a strategic starting point. If you’re on a tight budget, invest in a York Pass or make the most of the many free things to do in York. Here are a few ideas.
1. Get Lost in the Snickelways
Historic York is a warren of medieval lanes and alleyways, affectionately nicknamed Snickelways, and exploring the tiny passageways is the highlight of any walking tour. The Shambles is the oldest and most famous, a picturesque cobblestone lane flanked by timber-framed buildings and medieval shopfronts, but photo opportunities abound all over the old town. See how many uniquely named Snickelways you can spot: Pope’s Head Alley, Mad Alice Lane and Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma-Gate are among the most unusual.
2. Walk the Old City Walls
Another good choice for a walking tour is following the route of York’s old city walls, which date back to Roman times — although today’s ruins mostly date from the 12th century. Beautifully restored and marked by four gates, or “bars” — Bootham Bar, Monk Bar, Walmgate Bar and Micklegate Bar — the walls stretch for 2.75 miles around the city center and offer magnificent views over the town and River Ouse.
3. Visit a Museum
Many of Britain’s museums and galleries offer free entry, and York’s most popular institutions also waive the entrance fee. Art lovers should make for the recently renovated York Art Gallery, where the vast permanent collection includes an impressive array of 17th- and 18th-century paintings and a huge display of British ceramics. Also worth a visit is the award-winning National Railway Museum, the largest of its kind in the world, showcasing over 100 locomotives including a Japanese bullet train, the world’s fastest steam locomotive and a replica of Stephenson’s Rocket. Those with kids in tow can also make the most of free entrance for under-16s at the Yorkshire Museum and York Castle Museum.
4. Check Out the Free Sights
Free walking tours run from York’s tourist office during high season, but it’s also easy to plan a DIY tour, and many of the city’s attractions are free. Admire the grand Gothic façade of the York Minster and Clifford’s Tower, the last remnant of York Castle; enjoy window shopping along Coney Street and Stonegate; or stroll along the river to Rowntree Park.
– Contributed by Zoe Smith
