The bank holiday is finally here!

York is jam-packed full of fun events and things to do this bank holiday, from must see attractions, gardens and galleries to family friendly fun and hidden gems to be uncovered.

Book your stay in York and treat yourself to some retail therapy in the city's web of winding streets flaunting designer stores, independent shops and boutiques! There's also an incredible range of food and drink venues to enjoy during your stay, discover fine dining, independents or enjoy the thriving street food scene at the Shambles Food Court.

Whether your visit to York is focused on shopping, culture, food or any of the other fascinating things the city has to offer, it's the place to be this bank holiday!

Bank Holiday in York

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Stay

York offers a wide range of accommodation, from luxury spa hotels to self-catering getaways, giving you an eclectic choice of inviting places to rest your head after a day of exploring.

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Things to Do

Our city is built on 2000 years of incredible history and has more attractions per square mile than anywhere else in the UK. York is home to many world-class museums, art galleries and other fun filled experiences for you to enjoy.

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What's On

York has a vibrant calendar of festivals, events, gigs and shows and there's always something exciting taking place for you to enjoy whilst visiting the city.

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Eat & Drink

York is the ultimate destination for foodies and those looking for a special culinary experience with a huge range of dishes on offer from a wide variety of quality cafés and restaurants.

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Shopping

York offers a unique shopping experience. If you are looking for a special gift idea, want to spoil yourself or treat someone special, there is no better place for some retail therapy.

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Beyond York

Once you’ve experienced the magic of York, venture beyond the city to discover the natural beauty of national parks, countryside and coast.

Rest your head after a day of exploring.

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Impossible Motel

Impossible Motel is quite possibly Yorks’ most beguiling, quirky, uber chic, and intimate boutique accommodation. The M…

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Bugthorpe Grange Glamping

Bugthorpe Grange Glamping is a new glamping site created in 2022. Bugthorpe Grange is located on the picturesque Garrow…

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Middletons Hotel

Nestled in secluded courtyard gardens and within the City walls, Middletons Hotel offers 56 cosy guest rooms spread ove…

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Hotel du Vin York

Tucked away in the Mount area of the city, our York hotel lies within a Grade II-listed mansion house, combining classi…

Family Friendly Things To Do

See all Family Friendly

Explore our exciting and child-friendly city!

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Go Quest Adventures - Self-Guided City Walk & Interactive Treasure Hunt

Explore the streets of York's city centre, unlocking a hidden trail by finding clues, solving puzzles & completing …

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Castle Howard

Castle Howard is one of Britain’s finest stately homes, situated just outside York in the Howardian Hills, an Area of O…

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York's Chocolate Story

Welcome to York's Chocolate Story, the ultimate destination for families, chocolate lovers, and anyone seeking a truly …

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Treasure Hunt York - Fun, Flexible Tour with Cryptic Clues & Hidden Gems

Turn today into an adventure with Treasure Hunt York Discover York together by solving clues, scouring the city and fol…

See what's on this bank holiday weekend

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Russell Kane: Hyperactive

Whirlwind, FitBit-breaking comedian, presenter, actor and author Russell Kane is out on the road again, setting it on f…

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Gourmet Xmas Food Hunt

Gourmet Christmas Food Hunt in York A puzzle-filled adventure full of delicious prizes. Taste the city of York! Taste …

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31st Mar 2024 - 31st Mar 2024

Tabanco Music Quiz

Tabanco Music QuizEvery 4th SundayVenue: Tabanco by AmbienteFREE If you think you’ve got what it takes to be our music …

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Christmas With Anton du Beke

Embark on a dazzling journey into a festive wonderland as Strictly’s one and only Anton Du Beke brightens up your Chris…

York is the ultimate destination for foodies

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The Principal York Hotel

The historic Principal York hotel is adjacent to the train station and enjoys views across its private gardens to stunn…

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York's Chocolate Story

Welcome to York's Chocolate Story, the ultimate destination for families, chocolate lovers, and anyone seeking a truly …

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The Fox

Set in the Holgate district of York lies The Fox, a pub whose history is inextricably linked to the golden age of rail.…

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Heavenly Desserts

Heavenly Desserts York is a modern addition besides the iconic St Helen's square, with the heart of York's buzzing shop…

There's no better place for some retail therapy

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Lucy Pittaway

Discover the vibrant world of award-winning artist Lucy Pittaway at Lucy's Gallery in York. Lucy Pittaway, celebrated f…

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Coppergate Centre

The Coppergate Centre is an open-air shopping centre in the heart of York. Home to visitor attractions, including JORV…

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Shambles Market

Shambles Market is your ultimate destination for a diverse range of shopping needs. From exquisite quality gifts and fr…

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Il Gusto

We offer a wide range of liqueurs, spirits, oils, and balsamic vinegars sourced from the best small distilleries from a…

Embrace nature in one of York’s many grounds and gardens

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Castle Howard

Castle Howard is one of Britain’s finest stately homes, situated just outside York in the Howardian Hills, an Area of O…

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Yorkshire Museum & Gardens

Housing some of the finest collections of archaeological and geological finds in Europe, the Yorkshire Museum, is the i…

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Treasurer's House - National Trust

Winner of the Travellers' Choice Award from TripAdviser in 2023 and 2022. A house of surprises Nestled behind York Min…

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RHS Garden Harlow Carr

One of England’s most relaxing and innovative gardens at the gateway to the Yorkshire Dales, Harlow Carr is a showcase …

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Save money while sightseeing with a Visit York Pass!

York's official sightseeing card which gives entry to top attractions in York, including York Minster, City Cruises York, JORVIK Viking Centre and more!

Buy Now
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Why get a Visit York Pass?

🏰 Save money on 25+ attractions

🏰 Quick and easy to use

🏰 Includes 24 hours city sightseeing bus ticket

It's the only ticket you need!

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Visit York Blog

Read on for even more inspiration for your bank holiday visit to York!