My favourite things to do in York
One of the best things about living in York is the range of activities on offer. One of my favourite things to do is wander through the cobbled streets into the independent cafes and shops. Whether that’s finding a quiet place after a lecture to sit with a coffee and type up lecture notes or meeting up with friends on the weekend, there’s something for everyone!
Independent cafes and restaurants
York is overflowing with independent and family-run businesses and it is important to provide them with constant support. From living in the city for the past year and a half now I have tried my fair share of cafes and restaurants so I have some recommendations.
Gatehouse Coffee – Walking the walls is a brilliant free way to see the iconic landmarks of York and you may stumble across the Gatehouse Coffee which is built inside the walls of the tower. You can sit inside a cosy room scattered with fairy lights or sit outside on the terrace and enjoy the scenic views of the river. Found at Walmgate Bar, Walmgate, York YO10 2UB.
Rise – A stylish cafe that specialises in brunch with a constant buzzing atmosphere – an instagrammers dream! Be aware of the queue outside as it is a very popular spot, especially on a weekend, so make sure to take an umbrella if it is raining. Service is excellent and you can see them making your food right in front of you. The fruit smoothie bowl is a firm favourite of mine and there are gluten free and vegetarian options available across the menu. Find them at 44 Fossgate, York YO1 9TF.
Cocoa Joes – A chocolate lovers dream! Cocoa Joes is a quaint hot chocolate shop where you can choose what chocolate you want from a range of single origin chocolates across white, milk, dark and beautiful ruby chocolate. The staff are also so attentive with providing knowledge and the best customer experience. Find them at 11 Museum St, York YO1 7DT.
SPARK – A quirky, modern enterprise with something for everyone from Greek grub to brownies it’s the perfect place to meet a big group of friends as it has a brilliant atmosphere. You can order from your phone via a QR code, so you don’t even have to stand up! Located at 17-21 Piccadilly, York YO1 9PB.
Events and Nightlife
York’s atmosphere is buzzing no matter what the day and there is always something to do, here are a few ideas of how you could spend you’re evenings:
Roxy Ballroom – A newly opened adult playground with a huge variety of games alongside a great bar atmosphere and food selection. Perfect for dates or catch up with friends. Activities start from £10 per game. Can be found at Stonebow House, The Stonebow, York YO1 7NP.
York Restaurant Week – A perfect way to discover delicious dining and try out new places on a budget (perfect for students!) Across 7 days, a huge variety of food and drink are on offer across York ranging between £5-£30. Offers for the next event are available online at https://yorkrestaurantweek.co.uk/ from Monday 26th February.
York Light show – A free immersive and fun experience illuminating the Minster during the dark evenings of winter. Perfect to catch if you’re going on an evening walk with your housemates or on your journey through a bar crawl. Visible from 6-9pm every evening from 10th– 29th February.
