Posted: 10.05.26
There’s something rather special about a city steeped in history - and few places capture it quite like York. Once a centre of Roman and Viking life, this much-loved northern city has evolved into a vibrant destination where ancient charm meets a quietly modern energy. Think winding cobbled streets lined with timber-framed buildings, independent boutiques tucked down hidden lanes, and a thriving food scene that makes it just as inviting for weekend escapes as it is for longer, unhurried stays.
From its awe-inspiring Minster to its centuries-old walls, York has long inspired storytellers and today, that same spirit lingers in its museums, cosy corners and atmospheric streets. Whether you’re drawn by the history, the culture or simply the slower rhythm of city life, here’s how we might spend 48 hours in York.
TO SEE
York Minster
Your 48 hours in York must include York Minster. One of the most breathtaking cathedrals in the world, the Minster is an architectural masterpiece. Its towering stained-glass windows and medieval Gothic design make it an unmissable landmark in the heart of the city.
The Shambles
This famously crooked medieval street looks straight out of a fairytale. With overhanging timber-framed buildings, quaint shops, and cobbled lanes, The Shambles is a magical place to wander - especially for Harry Potter fans, as it’s said to have inspired Diagon Alley.
Clifford’s Tower
The last remnant of York Castle, Clifford’s Tower sits atop a grassy mound offering stunning panoramic views over the city. Once a royal stronghold, it’s a fascinating piece of York’s history, with a dramatic past dating back to the Norman conquest.
The National Railway Museum
A must for train lovers, this museum is home to iconic locomotives, including the Mallard and a Japanese bullet train. It’s free to enter and packed with interactive exhibits, making it great for all ages.
TO DO
Walk the City Walls
York’s ancient walls are the best way to see the city from above. The 3.4-km circuit offers beautiful views of York Minster, historic gatehouses, and hidden gardens. It’s a scenic way to step back in time while stretching your legs.
A ghost tour by lantern light
York is one of the most haunted cities in England, and an evening ghost walk through its narrow alleys and shadowy courtyards is the perfect way to discover its eerie past. Spooky tales and theatrical storytelling bring the city’s dark history to life.
Explore Museum Gardens
A peaceful escape in the heart of York and a 5 minute stroll from No. 1, Museum Gardens are home to Roman ruins, medieval abbey remains, and lush botanical displays. A great spot for a picnic or a moment of quiet amid sightseeing.
Cruise down the River Ouse
See the city from the water with a scenic boat trip along the River Ouse. Whether it’s a daytime sightseeing cruise or a twilight dinner experience, it’s a unique and relaxing way to take in York’s historic charm.
TO TAKE HOME
York Ghost from The York Ghost Merchants
The charming York Ghosts are handcrafted figurines by The York Ghost Merchants, a unique shop located at No. 6 Shambles in York, inspired by the city’s rich history of ghost stories and folklore.
Harry Potter souvenirs
If you’re a Harry Potter enthusiast visiting York, The Shop That Must Not Be Named is a must-see destination. Situated at 30–31 The Shambles, this independent shop specialises in officially licensed Harry Potter merchandise.
Bath and body products from The Yorkshire Soap Company
The Yorkshire Soap Company is a beloved boutique located at 10 Blake Street. The charming store is renowned for its handcrafted products, including soaps, bath bombs, and lotions, all made with care in Yorkshire.
Charlotte and Matt turning heads at York 💍
📸 @ellieniamhphotos
Whisky & Vinyl Nights at Margate 🥃 🎶
Each month, we will explore one bourbon, one Scotch and one world whisky, all while spinning a mix of new and classic vinyl
13th October | 7 - 9pm
17th November | 7 - 9pm
15th December | 7 - 9pm
Tickets are £20 per person, secure your place now at @pearlycowmargate
10 days, 3 drinks, 1 bar not to be missed
@brightoncocktailfestival is back with ten days of the city’s best bars shaking, stirring and showing off their skills, 18th-27th September
Tickets are £20 which gives you access to £6 cocktails and £4 mocktails at No. 124 and over 50 other bars across the city.
Find us at the bar for a sip of Don’t Beet Around The Bush, Notorious F.I.G and Citrus Got Real (non-alc)🍸🍹 🥃
Get your ticket
The longer you stay, the more you save
With the `Ber month break, save 15% on one night stays, 20% on 2 night stays and 35% on 3 night stays.
Book at least three weeks ahead and stay Sunday-Thursday from 27th September to enjoy our happiest rates
Last of the summer escapes in Bath...
Ready to step into Autumn?
Deep sigh relaxation post summer madness
From releasing the tension in your back to getting your glow back on with a tailored facial, find what you`re looking for in The Spa at Bath, York, Margate and Brighton
Soaking up the last of the summer sun in Brighton ☀️🌊
What a summer we’ve had! Thank you to all who joined us
GUESTS WHO...
dine alfresco
host fabulous events
enjoy a quiet moment after exploring
say cheers to cocktails with a view
Which guest are you?
Every September Bath turns Regency for ten days of dances, talks and costumed promenades!
Jane Austen Festival 2026 - Friday 11th - Sunday 20th September
The world`s largest, longest-running Austen festival, don`t miss The Grand Regency Costumed Promenade. Setting off at 11am on 12th September from the Royal Crescent, via George Street, and finishing on Great Pulteney Street - home to our hotspot, No. 15, everyone is welcome
Read all about it in the Guest Insider on our website!
Promenade photos by @visitbathuk
National Dog Day! Celebrating some of our four legged friends and their visits
@beccapearsonstyle at York
@life_with_haz - at Brighton
@travisnuneshair - at Margate
@moosethecockapoo_ - at Bath
@m.mdogwalking74 - at York
@joy_hung_ - at Margate
Darla - at Brighton
@albert_thecavapoo - at Margate
Bring your team together your away days and corporate meeting
Enquire through our website about spaces at Bath, York, Margate and Brighton
Morning read, beach read or a before-bedtime read. You`ll find things to see and do, what`s new and some of our favourite moments in our very own GuestHouse newspaper 🗞️
Some lovely guest snaps by:
@natalyavukovic
@bethxlouisexx
@birdandbloomuk
Your own secret door into the main hotel, a separate lounge, private pantry and a copper hot tub
This is a stay in The Hideout Suite at No. 124 Brighton. Yours for the long weekend if you’re looking for a little luxury
Aperitivo launches tomorrow at @thebar_at_no15bath
You choose your cocktails and the kitchen will send out generous plates from the bar menu - nothing fixed, nothing fussy, just whatever`s looking its best that day. The more cocktails you order, the more plates you get, complimentary
6-9pm every Friday
Autumn: Two offers to make it yours 🍂
A weekend away that feels less like an overnight stop and more like a proper exhale 🧳
Scroll for details on The Autumn Treat and The `ber Month Break offers
Whether you`re the kind of person who books on a whim or plans ahead, autumn`s better at ours
Late Summer in Bath...
Summer Lates at @theromanbaths - until 31st Aug
- And on Fridays and Saturdays there`ll be vinyl DJs and on Sunday, live acoustic sessions showcasing a mix of established artists and emerging talent
@theatreroyalbath1805 - The Spy who came in from the Cold - until 22nd Aug
- The novel by John le Carré - the undisputed master of the modern spy genre - is brought to life in a thrilling stage adaptation
Beyond Impressionism: Printmaking from Manet to Picasso - until 13th Sep
- An exhibition celebrating the resurgence of printmaking from the mid-19th century onward, bringing together prints by key artists of the movement including Édouard Manet, Pierre Bonnard, Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, and Pablo Picasso
@Bathrugby Season Launch - 31st Aug
- They`re kicking off the new season on the Rec (right opposite No. 15) with a free-to-attend Fan Village celebration. Open to everyone!
An Audience with Lucy Worsley at The Forum - 1st September
- Beloved historian and bestselling author, who spent 20 years working as Chief Curator in some of Britain`s most marvellous palaces, Lucy will take you behind the scenes and into the history of the royal residences she came to know so well
Bath Foodies Festival - 4th - 6th September
- Royal Victoria Park will host a celebratory finale to Summer with chef demonstrations, street food, drinks and live music
The American Museum - all Summer
- Home to American stories, decorative arts, folk art and textiles, special exhibitions and acres of wildlife-friendly beautiful gardens. The museum is marking 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence
Enjoy afternoon tea in @thepumproomrestaurant - daily
- Take a seat under the chandelier and savour a delicious afternoon tea to the sounds of the Pump Room Trio and the resident pianist
What were once the library and the drawing room when these townhouse buildings were aristocratic homes, are now our Bootham Suites at No. 1 York
Scroll to enter the room
Ruby and Chris brought their cool to No. 124 Brighton 💍
📸: @meghanhopephotog
