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Celebrate summer in York
If you’re planning a staycation in the UK this summer and are looking for special places to visit, then make sure that York is high on your agenda.
This vibrant and historical city is alive more than ever during the summer months, with events and activities for the whole family to enjoy.
Travelling by train to York is easy, with frequent trains into York train station every day of the week. Just under two hours from London Kings Cross station, you can spend a day, a weekend or even a full week in York, with plenty of things to occupy you. Here we list a few highlights.
Enjoy a York city river cruise
Relax, take in the views and enjoy the ride as you cruise along the beautiful River Ouse on a York City Cruise.
Bask on the open top deck to soak up the sun and enjoy the fresh air on a bright day, otherwise get cosy in the enclosed saloon and enjoy a drink from the onboard bar as you cruise the Ouse.
With friendly live commentary throughout the journey, you will come away full of facts about York’s incredible history, as well as being able to familiarise yourself with all the top attractions around the city.
There are several cruises each day from city centre landings at either King's Staith or Lendal Bridge.
For more information, visit the website.
Visit the One Billion Journeys exhibition
Taking place at the National Railway Museum on Leeman Road, the One Billion Journeys exhibition is a must-see for train lovers and budding photographers!
New for this summer, One Billion Journeys features 45 enthralling images from acclaimed photographer and lifelong train enthusiast, Wang Fuchun, who has spent over 40 years capturing snaps of life on China’s railways.
Some of these images have never been exhibited before and include crowded passenger trains commuting into big cities and photographs that demonstrate the fast pace of technological and social change that is happening in China.
For more information, visit the website.
Spend an evening at Shakespeare’s Rose Theatre
If you didn’t manage to catch a performance at last year’s inaugural opening of Shakespeare’s Rose Theatre, then you are very much in luck. The unique attraction is returning for 2019, located close to the 13th century Clifford’s Tower in the heart of the city.
Having won prestigious awards for 'Best Cultural Experience' and 'Best Attraction', Shakespeare's Rose Theatre is returning with an epic line up of performances promising revenge, heroism, magic and mischief. Choose from Hamlet, Henry V, The Tempest or Twelfth Night – or why not see all four?
The experience closely emulates the excitement and immersivity of the original London Rose Playhouse Theatre that was open over 400 years ago, with tiered balconies, an open-roofed courtyard and medieval gardens and music acts around the theatre.
No seat will be more than 15 metres away from the action, so the atmosphere is intimate and engaging from the start.
For more information, visit the website
Join in the festivities at Fossgate Festival 2019
As one of the oldest and most-loved streets in York, Fossgate really comes alive in the summer, with both locals and tourists alike. Packed with charming independent cafes, restaurants and boutiques, the street is unique and full of character.
On 7th July, the street with showcase its glory even further by hosting the Fossgate Festival. A day-long street party, the festival embraces all the fun of the city, with street performers, food stalls, music acts, dancing and games. The festival runs from 12 noon to 7:30pm, then continuing later in the night when bars and restaurants will remain open later than their usual opening hours. Entry is free to all, so make sure you plan this into your July calendar.
For more information, visit the website
York Races John Smith's Cup Meeting
The John Smith’s Cup Meeting has become a definite highlight on the York Races’ annual schedule. With a real summer party atmosphere and record prize-money races on the table, the excitement levels are high, and the vibe is uplifting.
Taking place on Saturday 13th July, this is more of an informal session, compared to some of the other meetings, so expect lots of fun, music and vibrant outfits everywhere (weather pending!).
For more information, visit the website.