City of YorkStudent Life

Things to do in York this summer

Maria Kakogianni

As the academic year takes a breather, summer holidays bring the perfect opportunity for students to explore new places, recharge, and experience local culture. York, with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant events, offers a variety of affordable or free activities perfect for making the most of the break. From wandering medieval city walls and discovering hidden gardens to attending unique festivals and embarking on scenic day trips, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy York and its surroundings without spending a fortune.

Wander the Historic York City Walls

Strolling along York’s city walls is a great way to see the city and it’s free! At almost 2 miles long the walls are the best-preserved medieval city walls in England. Begin your walk at Bootham Bar and follow the path around the city, enjoying beautiful views of landmarks like York Minster and Clifford’s Tower. It’s a perfect outing for a sunny day or a relaxing evening. Remember to wear comfortable shoes for the steps and narrow pathways, bring a camera for great photos, and pack a snack to enjoy in nearby parks like Museum Gardens or Dean’s Park.

Visit the Yorkshire Museum and Gardens

The Yorkshire Museum and Gardens, located in the heart of York, offer a mix of education and relaxation. The museum, with an admission fee of £9.50, features fascinating exhibits on archaeology, geology, and natural history. Surrounding the museum, the enchanting Museum Gardens are free to explore. Here, you can see the ruins of St. Mary’s Abbey, enjoy beautiful plant displays, and find ideal picnic spots. In August and September, the gardens often host free outdoor performances and events. It’s a fantastic place to unwind, learn about local history, and observe wildlife like squirrels and birds in a serene environment.

Day Trip to the Yorkshire Dales National Park

A day trip to Yorkshire Dales National Park offers stunning natural beauty and outdoor fun without breaking the bank. Just an hour away from York, the park features rolling hills, scenic waterfalls, and charming villages. You can start your adventure with a hike to Malham Cove for spectacular limestone cliffs and breathtaking views. You can visit the village of Grassington for a cozy picnic or explore the picturesque riverside. The park is perfect for walking, cycling, or just enjoying the peaceful countryside. Don’t forget to pack a lunch and bring your camera to capture the amazing landscapes and make the most of a budget-friendly day out in nature!

Events in August and September: Local Highlights

York Unleashed Comic-Con returns on September 1, 2024, at York Racecourse, promising a day of excitement for fans of comics, sci-fi, fantasy, anime, and more. Whether you’re a die-hard enthusiast or new to the convention scene, this event is perfect for everyone. Dress up as your favourite character and enjoy a day filled with guest panels, movie props, and over 150 stalls offering unique merchandise. Highlights from last year include special appearances by actors like York’s own David Bradley, famous for playing Hogwarts’s caretaker Argus Filch in the Harry Potter films, along with opportunities to photograph movie props, iconic vehicles, and even grab freebies. Tickets booked in advance cost £12 whereas on the door tickets cost £10! Doors will be open from 11am until 5pm.

The York Food and Drink Festival, taking place from September 20 to 29, 2024, in York’s bustling city centre, is a great way to experience local food and drinks. This festival offers a variety of local produce, tasty street food, and craft beverages. Visitors can enjoy cooking demonstrations, food tastings, and workshops led by top chefs and artisans, providing an immersive experience into the local food culture. With free entry to the market area, it’s a perfect opportunity for students to explore diverse flavours, learn new culinary skills, and enjoy delicious treats in a lively and festive atmosphere. The markets are open from 10am until 5pm each day.

Mark your calendars cause on the 3rd and 4th of August the Middleton Railway will host its first ever Food and Drink festival, ‘A Taste of Yorkshire’. This exciting event, blending indoor and outdoor experiences, promises a celebration of local flavours and regional delights. Indulge in a variety of hot and cold dishes available on-site, complemented by an array of goodies to take home. The festival features a vibrant lineup including local breweries, a cider bar, and a cocktail bar, offering over 25 different beers and ciders to explore. Enjoy live music, engaging demonstrations, and complimentary tastings throughout both days. On Saturday, stay late as trains will continue running into the evening, providing extended opportunities to savour drinks, music and hot food -all included in the ticket price.
Tickets cost £10 and unlimited train rides are included. Festival hours are from 10am to 10pm on Saturday and 10am to 5pm on Sunday, with convenient nearby free parking available.

Additional Resources for Local Activities and Attractions

General Attractions and Activities

  • Visit York: The official tourist board website for York. It provides comprehensive information on attractions, events, dining, and more.
  • Yorkshire.com: Covering the wider Yorkshire region, this site offers details on events, attractions, and accommodation across Yorkshire.

Nearby Towns and Regions

  • Visit Harrogate: Information on attractions, events, and accommodations in Harrogate.
  • Welcome to Leeds: A guide to events, attractions, and places to stay in Leeds.
  • Discover Selby: Offering insights into attractions and events in Selby.

Family-Friendly Activities

  • York Mumbler: A fantastic resource for families, offering information on child-friendly activities, events, and services in York.
  • Kids Days Out in Yorkshire: A comprehensive guide to child-friendly attractions and activities across Yorkshire.

Cultural and Educational Activities

  • York Museums Trust: Details on museums and galleries in York, including events and exhibitions.
  • National Railway Museum: Information on exhibitions, events, and activities at the National Railway Museum in York.

Outdoor Activities

Seasonal and Event-Specific Information

  • What’s On in York: A regularly updated guide to events happening in York throughout the year.