Summer in York

Experience summer in York from sunrise to sunset! Discover unique attractions, explore beautiful gardens, and immerse yourself in the rich history all day. With so much to fill your day, why not unwind in the evening and stay the night in York?

Start your day with York Park & Ride! The sites are easy to access with six different spots around the city. An adult ticket with 3 children free costs just £4, making it an affordable and sustainable way to venture into the city.

Pop into the Visitor Information Centre where our friendly team can provide top tips for enjoying your summer in York. Pick up an array of leaflets to guide you on your visit, and buy a York-themed souvenir from the gift shop.

In the heart of York, visit the iconic Shambles Market and find a variety of great local products. When you need a break from shopping, enjoy delicious street food at the nearby Shambles Food Court.

From 30th July - 2nd August, celebrate Yorkshire Day 2026 this summer! Pop along to the market over Yorkshire Day weekend and support Yorkshire produced goods, and enjoy a pop-up giant sandpit and seaside activities.

To get the most out of your summer trip to York, grab a The Visit York Pass: offering exclusive access to over 30 attractions and saving you time and money.

Follow Visit York for the latest updates on Summer in York! #SummerInYork

Sunrise to Sunset

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York Park & Ride ▸

Start your journey with York Park & Ride! It’s quicker and easier than driving. What’s more, an adult ticket with 3 children costs just £4!

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York Dungeon ▸

Get ready to journey back through 2000 years of York's darkest history as you see, hear and (ahem) smell the cities murky past!

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City Cruises ▸

Sailing daily from the City Centre! Uncover the history of our ancient city from a completely different perspective - join us on board for an entertaining and informative journey through the heart of York.

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National Railway Museum ▸

Home to iconic locomotives and fascinating collections, explore feats of engineering and extraordinary stories. Entry to the museum is free, and there is something for everyone to enjoy.

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Book Your Summer Stay ▸

York offers a wide range of accommodation, from 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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Summer Guide ▸

Pop into the Visitor Information Centre and pick up a copy of the Summer Guide 2026! Alternatively, peruse a digital version here.

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Visit York Information Centre & Gift Shop ▸

Based in the heart of the city, our friendly assistants are here to share their expert local knowledge of attractions, travel information, places to eat, shops and events with you.

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Shambles Market ▸

Visit the iconic Shambles Market for local shopping, and discover the nearby Shambles Food Court for mouth-watering street food.

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The Visit York Pass ▸

Maximise your summer with the Visit York Pass - the ideal way to save money whilst visiting York's amazing attractions!

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Castle Howard ▸

Castle Howard is one of Britain’s most iconic historic houses and gardens, situated just outside York. Discover the House and gardens at your own pace, admiring its awe-inspiring architecture and interiors, with something to capture everyone’s imagination.

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York Designer Outlet ▸

York Designer Outlet is home to over 100 designer and premium brands, with discounts of up to 60% off RRP. With new fashions, sportswear and homewares arriving daily, there is something here for everyone.

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Thor's Orangery ▸

York's favourite pop-up bar is back this summer! Head to Parliament Street to enjoy live music, delicious street food, and a new drinks menu.

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Gardens in York ▸

It’s time to get out into the fresh air, embrace nature, and enjoy some of the wonderful gardens in York! These green spaces are perfect for those who love walking through the city.

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Family Friendly ▸

There are plenty of things to see and do for your little ones over the summer holidays. Whether you want to keep busy with attractions or have a picnic in the park, York is the perfect place for families.

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Evening Tours ▸

With the sun setting later, summer is the perfect time for an evening tour. Whether you want a walking tour, relaxing boat trip, or enjoy a self-guided trail, York has plenty of evening tours to suit all visitors.


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Save money while sightseeing with a Visit York Pass!

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

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Why get a Visit York Pass?

🏰 Save money on 30+ attractions 

🏰 Quick and easy to use

🏰 Includes 24 hours city sightseeing bus ticket

It's the only ticket you need!

Explore Visit York Pass
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What's On in York this Summer

See all Summer Events

Check out this year's exciting summer events in York

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YMT098 YCM Summer At The Castle Events Banner 1000x460 AW 1
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4th Jul 26

Castle Kitchen

York Castle Museum

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YMT098 YCM Summer At The Castle Events Banner 1000x460 AW 1
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22nd Aug 26

Castle Kitchen

York Castle Museum

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Visit York Hero Image 2026
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2nd Sept 26

Hump Day BBQ on the Terrace at Novotel

Novotel York Centre

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Wagon with text
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22nd Jun 26 - 5th Jul 26

York Mystery Plays Festival

York Mystery Plays 2026

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WOLDIES 1 2024 Low Rez 59
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1st Jul 26 - 6th Sept 26

Woldies Summer Days and Wild Superhero Mission

Woldies

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7th Sept 26

Yotam Ottolenghi: Simple Too LIVE

Grand Opera House York

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Visit York Hero Image 2026
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12th Aug 26

Hump Day BBQ on the Terrace at Novotel

Novotel York Centre

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Untitled design 24
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5th Jul 26

Roses in Bloom: A Walled Garden Talk at Sledmere

Sledmere House and Gardens

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Vy hero The Unnatural Trade
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10th Aug 26

The Unnatural Trade: Slavery, Abolition and Envir…

York Mansion House

Special Offers

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Save money by utilising these brilliant offers from our partners!

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10% Off Car Hire

Arnold Clark Car & Van Rental

Arnold Clark Car & Van Rental are delighted to offer you a 10% discount on car hire at our York branch with the cod…

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3 Pairs for £20

Socktopus

Get 3 pairs for £20 at Soctopus when you buy 3 pairs of regular socks! Applies automatically in-store and online.

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Lunchtime Fixed Price Special

The Drovers Arms Restaurant & Country Pub

Join us every Monday to Friday lunchtime for our special lunchtime fixed price menu. 2 courses for £22 and 3 courses fo…

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Away Days at Thin Ice Press: the York Centre for …

Thin Ice Press: the York Centre for Print

Bespoke team building and creative workshops in the heart of York. Get hands on with traditional print.Thin Ice Press i…

Frequently asked questions

How much time should I allow for a summer day out in York?

Allow a full day, from early morning through the evening, to experience the itinerary as intended, with flexibility to shorten or extend individual stops depending on your interests. If you need more time, why not book an overnight stay?

Is York suitable for families with children?

Yes; there are plenty of summer experiences suitable for kids. Whether you want a family-friendly attraction or seasonal events, there is plenty of things to see and do in York. Read more about things to do in York with kids here ▸

What should I bring or wear for a summer visit to York?
Wear comfortable walking shoes and sun protection, bring a water bottle, and include a light layer for cooler evenings while exploring York in summer.