The first weekend in November, my boyfriend Tom and I visited York for a long weekend to celebrate our six month anniversary. We chose to visit York for a number of reasons: I have never visited York before, York is extremely picturesque especially in the Autumn, there is lots of see and do and also Tom has family who lives nearby whom we visited whilst in York. Huge thanks to Jess for giving me suggestions of places to visit whilst in York, you can check out her blog here.

Where To Stay

Once again, we decided to stay in an Air BnB. The Air BnB that Tom chose was located in Riccall, a small village a 35 minute bus ride away from the centre of York. It was honestly one of the cutest Air BnBs we have ever stayed in: from the wall décor and throw pillows to the fluffy white robes for lounging in to the hamper filled with delicious food and drink. The host herself was welcoming and gave us lots of suggestions of places to visit during our stay.

Where To Eat & Drink

The Shambles Market

Situated in the world-famous street, The Shambles, The Shambles Market is an outdoor market located in the centre of York, selling a range of fast food, crafts and clothing. We decided to visit the Market for lunch due to its large selection of foods catering for all dietary requirements and after much deliberation, I decided to order a vegan jackfruit burrito whilst Tom ordered a pepperoni pizza.

Pivni

Pivni is a candle-lit 2-storey bar offering a selection of over 50 draught and bottled beers in a 16th century half-timbered house. A must visit for all beer fans. There is even a jukebox upstairs which you can play your favourite songs on whilst you enjoy a half or full pint of beer.

For more Cafes to visit whilst in York, please check out Jess’ post here.

What To Do

York’s Chocolate Story

The Chocolate Story is a Museum located in the City Centre which consists of a guided tour through the history of chocolate in York. Some of the largest chocolate and sweet companies originated from York, including Terry’s, famous for the Terry’s Chocolate Orange, Craven’s and Rowntree’s, now owned by Nestle, famous for Fruit Gums, Tooty Frooties, Fruit Pastilles, Jelly Tots, KitKats, Smarties, Aeros and Quality Street.

Walk Along The City Walls

York has always been defended by walls of one form or another. Presently, you are able to walk along the remaining parts of the wall that once surrounded York, offering you a panoramic view of the City. The entire walk takes approximately 2 hours but the wall is split into sections so you are able to come and go as you please.

Places To Visit

The Shambles

The Shambles is an old street lined with overhanging timber-framed buildings. The name originates from the butcher shops that used to be located along the street and one is still able to see the meat-hooks where meat used to hang. Recently, the Shambles has grown to fame as it is said to have been the inspiration for Diagon Alley, the iconic alley that features in Harry Potter. This has led to the creation of three Harry Potter inspired shops along The Shambles, including The Shop That Must Not Be Named.

York Minister

Otherwise known as The Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of Saint Peter, York Minister is the Cathedral of York and one of the largest of its kind in Northern Europe. You can pay to enter the Cathedral as well as an additional cost to admire the view from the roof but even the Minister itself is picturesque and the perfect landscape for Autumnal photos.

Brimham Rocks

Located on Brimham Moor, Brimham Rocks describes the series of balancing rock formations which can stand as tall as 30 feet. Part of the National Trust and free to enter, Brimham Rocks offers a panoramic view over Yorkshire as well as a picturesque walk. At your own risk, you are able to climb on top of the rock formations and admire the view as well as enjoy a hot drink from the Café located halfway up the Moor. This was probably one of my favourite places we visited on the trip.

Have you ever visited York? What was your favourite part?