places to visit between london and york

How To Plan a York Day Trip from London

Last Updated on February 29, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

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Planning a York day trip from London is one of the best ways to get away from the capital city and to see more of England while not taking a huge amount of town out of your already packed itinerary.

This historic walled city in the north of England is the perfect place to get out and explore for a day and, though it may seem quite far, it is actually within easy reach from London .

If you’re interested in visiting this city and you’re curious about how to spend one day in York, you’ll be pleased to discover that there are lots of things to do! From walking along to the city walls to gazing in awe at one of Northern Europe’s largest gothic cathedrals, York has a ton to offer visitors and its compact nature makes it ideal for a day trip.

Table of Contents

How to Get to York from London

There are several ways to get to York from London for a day trip including train, car, bus or guided tour!

Getting from London to York by train is the easiest, quickest and most straightforward way to get to the city from the British capital.

There are several trains that leave from London Kings Cross Station per day and the journey time takes about two hours. This means that if you leave London early in the morning and return in the evening you can have a full day to explore and enjoy York.

Train tickets in the UK can be quite expensive, however, you will be able to get a much lower price if you book tickets as far in advance as possible.

York Train Station is a short walk from the city centre.

Another viable option for getting to York for a day trip is to go by car. The drive from London to York takes about three hours and the majority of it is along one main motorway (the A1).

While you certainly do not need to have a car in London or in York, driving can give you more flexibility to make some stops along the way and not be at the mercy of train timetables.

If you need to rent a car while in England, we suggest browsing Rentalcars.com. This platform aggregates car hire prices across major companies to ensure that you get a great deal on your rental car.

By Guided Tour

If you want to spend one day in York on a guided tour, you have a few options available, but most will require you to get to York on your own first, though there is this full-day tour that includes train tickets.

If you can’t spend all day on your feet, for instance, you may be interested in a hop-on hop-off bus tour of the city.

Alternatively, you can see the city centre on your own two feet on this guided walking tour or by bicycle on this guided cycling tour.

There are also some themed tours you can take like this Harry Potter tour and this evening tour of York.

If you’re a fan of getting out on the water, then you’re sure to enjoy this cruise on the River Ouse which allows you to see a different side of York from the city’s main waterway.

Travelling in the UK by bus is typically a lot less expensive than travelling by train and the same is true for the bus from London to York, however, it is also a lot longer of a journey. In fact, it is basically impossible to do a day trip to York from London via bus.

There are a number of buses that leave from London Victoria Coach Station per day, but the journey takes about 6-7 hours one way.

So the bus is really only a good option to visit York if you want to go for more than a day trip. Like with the train, however, it is also possible (and recommended!) to book your tickets in advance .

York Day Trip Itinerary

Now that you’ve figured out how to get to the city, it’s time to plan out how to spend one day in York!

The city has a lot to offer visitors and it is compact and easy to navigate. However, we recommend following the order listed here as it is laid out with efficiency in mind.

Also, if you’re planning on visiting a lot of paid attractions in York, it can work out to be well worth it to invest in the York City Pass . This sightseeing pass gives you access to 25 different attractions in York including the York Minster and the JORVIK Viking Centre, among many others.

Museum Gardens

Begin your 1 day in York itinerary at the Museum Gardens, lovely botanical gardens in the centre of the city situated on the banks of the River Ouse. These gardens are lush and lovely to stroll through, but the real highlight is the ruins of St Mary’s Abbey.

At one point the richest abbey in Northern England, this ruined Benedictine abbey was originally established in 1088 and grew to prominence over nearly five centuries until it was disestablished in 1529.

Though the site is ruined now, it is impossible not to gaze in wonder here at what was once a site of grandeur and it allows one to really appreciate just how deeply historic the city of York really is.

Entry into the Museum Gardens is free, as are the grounds surrounding the ruins of St Mary’s Abbey.

York Minster

Officially known as the Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of St Peter in York, the York Minster is one of the top attractions in the city and it isn’t hard to see why.

This imposing Gothic cathedral is one of the largest of its kind in Northern Europe and it is a truly spectacular building, complete with incredible facades and gorgeous stained glass.

Steeped in history, the cathedral was completed 1472, however, it took several centuries to construct it. Today, it is the seat of the Archbishop of York, which is the third-highest ranking office in the Church of England, after the Archbishop of Canterbury and the Queen.

You can tour the York Minster and admire its interior Monday through Sunday, but keep in mind that there are reduced hours on Sundays due to worship.

Entry fees are £18 for adults, with discounts available for students with a valid ID. Children under 16 enter free. Entry into the cathedral is included on the York Pass .

From the York Minster, it’s time to enjoy another activity that is iconic in York, and that is walking along the city walls! York boasts the longest intact walls of any city in England and no visit to this historic northern city would be complete without seeing the city from its former borders.

Originally constructed under Roman rule in the year 71 CE, the walls have been damaged, repaired, added to, and restored for countless centuries since then.

Walking along the city walls gives visitors a perspective on just how old York is and how much this historic city has seen as well as some fantastic views of the city.

Entry onto the city walls is free of charge.

The Shambles

From the city walls, it’s time to venture into the old city of York and to take in one of the most historic and beautiful streets in the centre, The Shambles.

This street — which is reminiscent of Diagon Alley in Harry Potter (though there is no confirmation that this is where the inspiration was drawn from) — is so-called because it used to be York’s meatpacking district. Shambles is an old term for an open-air slaughterhouse.

Today, the street is packed with boutique shops and tourists and it looks absolutely magical. With overhanding windows and a winding quality, it looks quintessentially English and it is the perfect place to snap a number of photos.

If you’ve worked up an appetite after all of your sightseeing thus far, consider grabbing a bite to eat at the Shambles Market.

This street market is open seven days a week and has numerous food trucks and local artisan stands to browse through. It’s a great place for a unique and affordable lunch!

York Castle Museum

After you’ve satiated yourself at the Shambles Market or have grabbed a bite of lunch elsewhere in the city (York is full of quaint and cosy pubs!), it’s time to head to the York Castle Museum.

If being in this city has prompted you to want to learn more about its vast and fascinating history, then this is the perfect stop for you.

Located at the site of the former York Castle, which was built by William the Conqueror in 1068, this museum is perhaps most famous for its Kirkgate: Victorian Street exhibition.

This exhibit is a historically accurate recreation of what a typical street in York would have looked like during the Victorian era of the 19th century, complete with actors and shop fronts.

The museum has a lot more to offer than just that, however, and has countless exhibits that cover the history of York from its founding to the present day.

Like most state-run museums in the UK, entry into the York Castle Museum is free of charge.

Clifford’s Tower

From the York Castle Museum, it’s time to head to one of the most iconic landmarks in York, Clifford’s Tower.

Once the keep of the York Castle, this monumental tower was originally constructed in 1068 following the Norman Conquest of York by William the Conqueror, however, it has been reconstructed many times since.

Clifford’s Tower has a dark and troubling history and it is perhaps most infamously known for being the site of the 1190 Jewish Massacre, where 150 Jewish residents of York tragically lost their lives in a pogrom. From the mid-18th century until 1929, the tower was used as a prison.

Entry into Clifford’s Tower costs £8.50 for an adult ticket, with discounts available for students, children and seniors.

JORVIK Viking Centre

And finally on this York day trip itinerary comes one of the top attractions for children (and the young at heart), the JORVIK Viking Centre!

This fascinating museum sits atop 10th-century Viking ruins that were excavated in York in the late 1970s and early ’80s.

Since then, the museum has recreated what York would have been like during that time and, at the museum, you can take a ride through a typically Viking-era York and feel as if you’ve been transported back in time, all while learning more about the diverse history of this fascinating city.

Adult entry into the JORVIK Viking Centre is £15 for adults, with discounts available for students with a valid ID, children and seniors. Entry is also included on the York Pass.

Have 2 or 3 Days in York?

If you have loved your day trip to York so much that you would rather spend more time in the city, you will not be disappointed.

Though most of the tourist sites and attractions in the city can be seen in just one day, there are some spots like the York Dungeon and the York Chocolate Story that can be visited if you have more time.

Alternatively, there is so much to see in surrounding Yorkshire that you will not regret spending longer in York.

For instance, nature loves and Brontë fans alike will delight in a visit to the hauntingly beautiful Yorkshire Dales National Park . This is a great independent day trip from York (especially if you have your own vehicle), however, you can also visit on this guided day tour.

If you want to see another of Northern England’s most noteworthy national parks, then you absolutely cannot go wrong with visiting the Lake District , which is also within easy reach from York, though a bit further than the Dales.

And if you want to explore some more towns of Yorkshire and venture out, then consider going on this day tour . This is a great way to experience more of Yorkshire without having to deal with the public transit system. You can also easily visit all of these places independently.

Where to Stay in York

If you’ve decided that you want to experience York as more than just a day trip, then you’re going to want to find the perfect place to rest your head.

The Queens Hotel — If you’re looking for a quaint and classy boutique hotel, this is a great option. They have a range of comfortable rooms available, a central location, and an option to include a fantastic breakfast in the nightly rate.

The Grand, York — If you’re looking to add a bit of luxury to your stay in York, then this is the hotel for you. Centrally located within easy walking distance of all of the city’s top attractions, they have countless plush rooms available, a luxurious spa on site and numerous other amenities that will make your stay a great one.

Astor York — Perfect for budget and solo travellers, this is one of the highest-rated hostels in York. Located about ten minutes walking from the historic centre, they have a range of both dorm and private rooms available and great self-catering facilities.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more York hotels!

Planning a York day trip from London doesn’t have to be a difficult task as the city is compact and easy to navigate yet has so much to offer visitors. If you’re interested in seeing a historic and different side of England away from the capital, you can’t go wrong with a visit to this city!

Are you trying to see York in a day? Have you visited the city before? Let us know in the comments!

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About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

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How To Have The Best London to York Day Trip: Tips From a Local

Grey Globetrotters contains affiliate links and is an Amazon Services LLC Associates Program member. If you make a purchase using one of these Amazon links, I may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. See my Disclosure Policy  for more information.

London and York, in North Yorkshire, are two of the most iconic cities in the United Kingdom, offering a unique blend of history, culture and entertainment. While each city has its own charm, it’s possible to experience them both in one day with a London to York day trip.

Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient architecture, discovering thousands of years of history dating back to Viking and Roman times, indulging in traditional English cuisine or shopping at independent boutiques, there’s something for everyone on a London to York day trip.

In this article, we’ll look at the best ways to make the most of your London to York day trip and discover what makes York one of England’s most beautiful cities.

How to Take a London to York Day Trip

I lived in London for years and in Yorkshire for the last decade, so I know both cities well. I’ve used this knowledge to share the best things to do in York when you only have one day to squeeze everything into!

Are you ready? Let’s get started!

How to Get to York from London

I’ve commuted from central London to York often, and I have to tell you that while there are several ways to get from London to York, only one is a real option (unless you are a total masochist or you want to spend most of your precious day trip travelling).

London to York by Train

The train is the only realistic option for a London to York day trip . With frequent services and comfortable trains, it’s easy to make the journey in just over two hours.

Here’s what you need to know about the rail route from London to York:

Departure station

Trains to York depart from London Kings Cross station – the biggest interchange on the London Underground network.

You can reach Kings Cross on six London Underground lines –  Circle, Piccadilly, Hammersmith & City, Northern, Metropolitan and Victoria .

London to York train times

Frequent trains run on the London North Eastern Railway between London and York throughout the day, with some services running every 30 minutes during peak times.

Book your ticket

It’s always best to book UK train travel in advance, as prices typically increase closer to the travel date. Booking early is the best way to find cheap train tickets.

Reserved seats are usually included with train fares when you purchase your train ticket online .

If you buy tickets at the station on the day of travel, you’ll need to hunt for a free seat when you board – if there is one 🙁

Arrive early

Kings Cross is a large, busy rail station – especially during the morning and evening rush hours. Aim to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time to allow plenty of time to navigate from the Underground, buy snacks and find your platform!

Top Tip : If you don’t have a seat reservation, arrive extra early and board the train as soon as possible . Look out for seats marked as “available” and bag them fast!

London to York by Bus

Put simply; this is a crazy idea if you’re planning a day trip to York from London! While National Express and Megabus operate excellent services to York from London Victoria Station, the journey time is more than 6 hours – each way.

A bus ride is the cheapest way to get from London to York, but you might feel like you’ve been welded to your seat by the time you arrive, and you’ll have precious little time for exploring.

London to York by Car

Driving between the two cities for a day trip will take longer than the train, but it will save you money if you travel as a couple or in a group.

Whether you choose the M1 or A(1)M motorway from London to York, you’ll need to plan for a road trip of more than 4 hours (probably more like 5). These are two of Britain’s busiest motorways, so you should also expect heavy traffic and all the usual shennagins that come with driving in the UK.

You won’t need a car in London or York ; however, driving can give you more flexibility in your trip, allowing you to break your journey or divert to other places of interest.

If you need to rent a car while in the UK, Rentalcars.com is a great place to look – this platform compares car hire rates across all major companies, giving you the best deal on your rental car.

Don’t forget to factor in the cost of parking in York – depending on which city-centre car park you choose, it could be more than £20 per day.

Guided Tours to York From London

A guided tour is a great way to make the most of your one day in York. Once you have made your way to York, you’ll find plenty of tours available in York – with various ways to see this fascinating city.

Take the weight off your feet for a while with a Hop On Hop Off bus tour on an open top bus (perfect for taking photos), get active with a guided cycle tour , or pick a great guided walking tour .

If you’re a Potterhead, you’ll love this Harry Potter walking tour , while you really shouldn’t miss the chance to go on a ghost walk during your day trip to York from London, as York is the most haunted city in Europe !

Prefer to explore York independently? The best way to save money on admission charges to York’s key attractions is to buy a York Pass before you arrive

➡️ Save time when you arrive – buy your York Pass here .

What should I wear for a day trip to York?

As York is almost 200 miles north of London, temperatures in Yorkshire tend to be a few degrees cooler, so you’ll always want a warm layer – even in the summer.

You’ll want to wear walking shoes, trainers or sturdy sandals. York has many quirky cobbled streets that can be lethal slippery. It’s absolute torture in heels (believe me, I have the bruises to prove it!)

READ NEXT : What to Pack for a Trip to Yorkshire – Your Ultimate Guide

York Day Trip Itinerary

Now you know how to get to York from London, and what to wear, let’s look at some of the best things to do in York in one day!

1. Walk the Medieval City Walls

No trip to York would be complete without a walk along Europe’s most complete medieval city walls , and it couldn’t be easier to do.

The walls pass directly in front of the York train station, so you can take a short but scenic walk on these ancient fortifications on your way to York city centre.

If you visit York in the spring, you’ll also enjoy the hosts of golden daffodils planted along the old Viking embankment the walls are built on.

2. Wander Through The Museum Gardens

Take 10 minutes to nip into the Museum Gardens to see the romantic ruins of St Mary’s Abbey – a Benedictine Abbey built in 1088! Many tourists don’t see these beautiful gardens, which is a shame, as it’s perfect for dreamy photos and picnics

Visitors can wander through what remains of the walls of the nave and crossing of the abbey church, where the monks sang and prayed, through to the cloister, where the monks did their laundry, contemplated and were allowed to speak. It’s a very serene spot.

3. Photograph a Medieval “Bar” (Gatehouse)

York’s city walls have four imposing main gatehouses – known as “bars”.

These bars ( Bootham Bar, Monk Bar, Walmgate Bar and Micklegate Bar ) were used as toll houses or to provide a defence to what was once England’s second city.

Fun Fact: There’s no connection between these bars and public houses (or bars)!

4. Visit York Minster (+ Take The Tower Tour!)

York Minster is the largest Gothic cathedral in northern Europe, with 56 bells in the two magnificent bell towers – more than any other English cathedral. When they are ringing, you can hear the bells all over the city!

Aim to spend at least 60-90 minutes exploring the Minster , seeing the famous Rose Window , which commemorates the end of the Wars of the Roses, the organ, and the intricate ceilings.

Don’t miss : The tower tour (book this when you arrive) for the ultimate view over the rooftops of this medieval city!

If you’re wondering, “ Is there a dress code for York Minster ?” the answer is no, there is not. However, you’ll want a warm layer as the Minster can be chilly throughout the year – especially in the crypt!

Admission to York Minster is included with your York Pass , which you can buy here to save precious time on your day trip 🙂

4. Browse The Shambles

The medieval street, known as the Shambles, is one of the places most people visit on a day trip to York – especially Harry Potter fans.

The narrow street with its overhanging Tudor buildings looks like Diagon Alley from Harry Potter and there’s a great wizarding shop to visit – it even has somewhere outside to park your broomstick!

5. Climb Clifford’s Tower

Standing high above the city, Clifford’s Tower is the only remaining part of York’s great Norman castle, built in the 11th century by William the Conqueror to subdue the “rebellious north”.

The recently refurbished displays inside this monumental tower give a real insight into the history of the tower and how it has been used as a royal mint, a medieval stronghold and a Civil War garrison.

Visitors also learn about a terrible antisemitic massacre in the tower in 1190. When York’s Jewish community became trapped in the tower, many chose to commit suicide rather than be murdered by the mob

A brand new roof deck also gives sweeping views over York’s historic skyline, while new walkways and staircases have opened up parts of the tower that were off-limits for centuries.

Admission to Clifford’s Tower is included with your York Pass , which you can buy here to save precious time on your day trip 🙂

6. Step Back in Time at JORVIK Viking Centre

Admission to Jorvik is also included with your York Pass .

7. Take A leisurely River Ouse cruise

Put your feet up after a busy day of sightseeing with a riverboat cruise. It’s a great way to relax and see York from a different perspective.

You’ll have plenty of time to enjoy this early evening river cruise before catching your train back to London.

8. Stop for Afternoon Tea at Bettys

Bettys is probably the best afternoon tea experience ever! People flock to Yorkshire and queue around the block for the chance to have a full “silver service” afternoon tea with delicate china, crisp white linens, and the tastiest cakes.

With five locations across Yorkshire, Bettys has been a real draw for visitors for over 100 years. If you don’t have time to queue for a table, you can always pop into the shop and buy goodies to take home (or eat on the train).

9. Pause At A Historic Pub

York has a wealth of atmospheric, historic pubs to drop into before making your way back to the train station.

I love the Guy Fawkes Inn , moments from York Minster, where the welcome and the fire are as warm and inviting as the traditional Yorkshire food .

Fun Fact: This old pub is the birthplace of the notorious traitor who tried to blow up the Houses of Parliament in the Gunpowder Plot!

10. The National Railway Museum

If you go on your London to York day trip with kids, they will love the National Railway Museum! With trains from the dawn of steam to carriages designed for Queen Victoria to bullet trains, there’s plenty to enthral young (and older) minds.

Even better, the museum is free to visit and only a 10-minute walk from the train station.

Where To Stay In York

If you don’t have to rush back from York to London, York has superb hotels – at very reasonable prices (compared to London!) Why not treat yourself and stretch your London to York day trip into a short break? You won’t regret it 🙂

Here are some of my favourite places to stay in York (tried, tested, and loved!)

1. The Grand, York : Rated 9.0/10. 7500+ top reviews

Stylish and central, with superb facilities, the Grand has an awesome spa and great dining options. ➡️  Check rates and availability at the Grand York.

2. Minster Walk Guest House : Rated 9.3/10. 1200+ stellar reviews

Quirky, comfortable and charming, the Minster Walk guesthouse is perfectly located right next to York Minster. ➡️ Check rates and availability at the Minster Walk Guest House

With so much to do in York, why not book a stay and enjoy more of what this exciting city offers?

FAQs: a Day Trip to York from London

Can you do a day trip to york.

York is one of the UK’s most popular destinations for day trippers, because it has so much to offer, whether you’re visiting with kids, as a couple, or as a solo explorer. It’s well connected by road and rail, and only 2 hours from London by direct train.

Is York a good city break?

Yes, York is a top destination if you’re looking for a great city break – at all times of the year.

Is York, UK, worth visiting?

With over two thousand years of history to explore, York is a fabulous city , with things to see and do to suit every traveller.

Is York a good day trip from London?

With an easy direct train journey of just 2 hours from London and historical, cultural and foodie things to do, York is the perfect place for a day trip from London.

Is York a walkable city?

York is the perfect city to explore on foot. The city’s main tourist attractions are within the city centre, as are many coffee shops, restaurants and hotels.

Can you get around York without a car?

Absolutely! York is a compact medieval city with narrow, winding streets that are best explored by walking! The train station is a short walk from the city centre; however, frequent buses also run from the station to the city centre.

How long is the train from London to York?

The train journey to York from London is just over 2 hours, making York a great place to visit on a day trip from London.

How much time should I spend in York?

York is a compact, walkable city; you can see a lot in one day. You can explore the tourist attractions more if you extend your trip to 2-3 days. You’ll also be able to explore more of the wonderful Yorkshire Dales and North York Moors on day trips from York and can discover what to do at night in York .

How far apart is York from London?

The distance between York and London is 175 miles; however, the driving distance is 211 miles to this beautiful city.

How long to spend in York Minster?

As a bare minimum, aim to spend an hour in York Minster, as there is so much to see, including the famous Rose Window, the crypt and the incredible carved choir stalls. Allow 2+ hours if you want to join a guided tour or take the tower tour.

Is there a direct train from London to York?

Yes, direct trains to York from London depart from London’s Kings Cross station and run directly to York, with no need to change trains.

How long does it take to get from London to York?

The fastest trains from London to York have a typical journey time of just over 2 hours. Driving takes 4-5 hours, and a bus journey is typically 6-7 hours.

How do I travel from London to York without a car?

The best way to travel to York from London is by train. You can also travel by bus/coach; however, this journey will take much longer.

How long is the walk around York City Walls?

The total distance around the city walls is 2.6 miles, with fantastic viewpoints over the city as you make your way around.

Is walking the city walls free in York?

Yes, anyone can walk along the medieval city walls in York during daylight hours. The walls are closed at night for safety reasons.

In Summary: Taking A London to York Day Trip

In conclusion, a day trip from London to York is an excellent way to experience one of the most popular places in Northern England.

It’s easy to make the journey and explore all York offers in just one day, thanks to the relatively short journey by train and the easy walking distance between top attractions.

From the towering cathedral and winding medieval streets to the charming shops and cafes, there is something for everyone in this historic city.

Whether you are a history buff or simply looking for popular day trips, a London to York day trip should definitely be on your UK travel bucket list – it’s one of the best day trips from London!

Like It? Pin The Best London To York Day Trip For Later!

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Coralie Thornton, the owner and author of Grey Globetrotters, has been a traveller for more than four decades. Today, she helps others experience the UK, Europe and bucketlist destinations with meticulously crafted guides and affordable luxury itineraries, Her passion for adventure has led her through over 40 countries, seeking cultural experiences, delicious foods, and hidden gems.

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York in a Day: The Perfect One-Day Itinerary for York, England

Today we have a guest post from Kelsey from Sights Better Seen on the perfect one-day itinerary for York. Kelsey studied abroad in York, so she has lots of great travel tips and photos to share. Without further ado!

Anytime someone tells me they’re going to England, I tell them to head straight to York. Founded by the Romans in 71 AD, York is one of England’s oldest and most beautiful cities. Around every corner, you’ll find medieval architecture, half-timbered houses, or boxes of colorful flowers. It’s absolutely gorgeous.

Table of Contents

Why you should take a day trip to York

Here’s why I fell head over heels in love with this medieval English city and why you probably will, too:

• It’s super haunted – York is hailed as the most haunted city in Europe – some even argue it’s the most haunted city in the world . With 140 ghosts and more than 500 hauntings, they might be right.
• It’s easily walkable – York is a small city, so you don’t have to bother with public transportation. The city center is just a 15-minute walk from the train station.
• It’s safe – As a solo female traveler, I found York to be an extremely safe and welcoming place to visit.

P.S. You can also scroll to the bottom of this post for a free map of what to include in your one-day York itinerary, which you can download and use offline with an app like Google Maps.

Getting to York

York is located in Northern England; it’s 3.5 hours north of London by car . If you travel by train, it takes about 2 hours, making a day trip to York from London totally doable.

Your one day in York itinerary: What to do, see, eat, and drink

Have a full english breakfast at partisan.

Only a five-minute walk from the train station, Partisan is a great place to start your day trip to York. I recommend trying Partisan’s full English breakfast which consists of fried eggs, sausages, back bacon, tomatoes, mushrooms, toast, beans, and black pudding. It’s absolutely delicious. If you’re not a meat-eater, Partisan also offers vegetarian and vegan versions of the full English breakfast.

Walk the City Walls

Originally built by the Romans, York is encircled by medieval city walls (they’re actually the longest medieval town walls in England !). What’s neat is you can walk on top of the walls, which offer stunning views of the city. It takes an hour or so to walk the complete loop, which is about 2 miles long.

The walls can be a little crowded, so I recommend visiting them right when they open (8 a.m.) or just before they close (dusk). They’re free to visit, so I suggest hopping on and off the wall as you explore York. You can do a free self-guided tour — click here to read more . You can also do a private guided tour of the walls — check current prices here .

Marvel at the city’s gatehouses (known as “bars”)

The wall is punctuated by “bars”, meaning gatehouses, which were used in medieval times to collect tolls. There are four main bars meaning in York: Bootham Bar, Monk Bar, Walmgate Bar, and Micklegate Bar. I recommend seeing all of them!

See a museum (or five)

York is home to many excellent museums. My personal favorite is the York Castle Museum. Though it’s no longer a castle, it’s a former prison that has been converted into a quirky mixture of exhibits: You can walk down an old Victorian street, visit an 18th-century debtor’s prison, step back into the 1960s, and so much more.

Here are some other unique museums to see while in York:

• Vikings at JORVIK Viking Centre : A museum dedicated to all things Viking, featuring reconstructions of old Viking settlements. £12.50 for adults.
• National Railway Museum : If you love trains, you’ll be enamored with this museum. It’s also free!
• York’s Chocolate Story : Do I really have to convince you to go to a chocolate museum? You get to make your own chocolate bar and learn all about the history of this delicious sweet. £12.95 for adults.
• York Art Gallery : A public art gallery with a collection dating back to the 14th century. £7.27 for adults.

Enjoy afternoon tea at Betty’s

In operation since 1936, Betty’s is THE place to have afternoon tea in York. I recommend ordering the Traditional Afternoon Tea that comes with tea sandwiches, scones with clotted cream, and a pot of tea. It costs £20 per person. If you’re on a budget, you can get the abbreviated version for £10 per person, which comes with tea and two scones.

Stroll through the Shambles

The Shambles is a small, narrow street that dates back to the Middle Ages. Walking down the street, you’ll wonder if you’ve just teleported straight into Hogwarts. Funnily enough, the Shambles is one of the locations that reportedly inspired Diagon Alley. You’ll even find several Harry Potter-themed stores there.

Along with the Harry Potter-themed stores, you’ll find all kinds of quirky and fun shops: chocolate shops, a cheese store, craft beer sellers, bakeries, to name a few. There’s a lot to do on the Shambles, so be sure to leave some time to explore.

Try a pasty at The Cornish Bakery

If you’re feeling peckish, stop by the Cornish Bakery for a pasty. A pasty is a traditional baked good that originated in the southwest of England; It’s basically a folded pie that’s filled with meat, cheese, and/or vegetables.

If you’re a vegetarian, I highly recommend trying the sweet potato and feta pasty at the Cornish Bakery — it’s amazing!

Visit the York Minster, York’s beautiful cathedral

Next, stop by the York Minster . Locally known as “The Minster”, this enormous Gothic cathedral is arguably York’s most famous landmark. I recommend paying to see inside the cathedral, as the interior is just as beautiful as the outside. An adult ticket costs £16.50, which includes both a church and a tower visit. The tower provides beautiful views of the city, so I highly recommend paying to go up.

Tip – if you visit an hour or two before the Minster closes, you’ll hear the choir singing the Evensong, which is the evening service. It’s also much less crowded at this time, which is always a plus in my book.

Have dinner at The Golden Fleece

The Golden Fleece is a traditional English pub that’s also the most haunted pub in York. Fifteen different ghosts “live” in the hotel! The most commonly seen ghost is Lady Alice Peckett, whose husband, John Peckett, owned the hotel and was mayor of York.

Foodwise, the Golden Fleece serves traditional pub food but offers vegetarian options, too. If you stay for dessert, be sure to get the sticky toffee pudding – it’s amazing!

Go on a ghost tour

If you stay later in the evening, you HAVE to go on a ghost tour in York. I recommend the Shadows of York Ghost Walk which costs £6 for adults. The Original Ghost Walk of York also comes highly recommended and costs £5 for adults. You can also book the York ghost bus tour here , which lasts 75 minutes and includes a comedy show.

Sip cocktails at Evil Eye

This quirky, dimly lit bar has a brightly painted interior that’s the perfect place to escape the rainy English weather. Evil Eye is known for its impressive selection of gin but serves an array of creative cocktails with many other spirits as well. You can even book a gin tasting or learn to make cocktails!

A map of the best things to do on a one-day itinerary in York:

When to visit York

November & December – In November and December, get into the Christmas spirit by visiting the York Christmas Festival, where you can enjoy warm cups of gluhwein, delicious baked goods, and fun activities.

February – In February, visit York to see the Yorvik Viking festival, which is an entire week of all things Viking. You’ll see reenactments (and even some battles!) and learn all about York’s Viking history.

March – In March, York hosts Restaurant Week, where you can dine at pricey restaurants at steeply discounted prices.

July – In July, York hosts the Great Yorkshire Fringe, which is ten days of theater, song, and dance productions. Similar to the famous Edinburgh Fringe Festival, this festival is fun and enjoyable for all.

August – On a weekend in August, stop by the York Walls Festival to discover York’s heritage related to the City Walls.

For a complete list of festivals in York, click here . There’s something fun happening almost every month!

Where to stay in York:

The Golden Fleece -Not only does this pub serve delicious food, but you can also stay the night. It’s also located in the city center, which is quite convenient. You’ll literally have The Shambles at your doorstep.

The Lawrence Luxury Aparthotel – At the Lawrence, you can have your own little apartment situated in the heart of York. If you like to cook, you’re in luck – these apartments come with fully equipped kitchens.

Moxy York – This is a mid-range modern hotel with a quirky feel. All rooms and common areas are accented with bright purple, giving it a funky vibe. While the Moxy isn’t directly in the city center, it’s only a 5-10 minute walk to the center of town.

Safestay York – Located in a 16th-century Georgian townhouse, this hostel has an elegant and funky vibe. They offer mixed bed dorms, female-only dorms, or private rooms. It’s located right next to the train station.

YHA York – YHA York is a budget hostel that offers female-only, male-only, and private group rooms. This hostel is about a 25-minute walk to the center but is located on the River Ouse, making for a pretty setting. I’d suggest walking along the river into town!

And there you have it – all my suggestions for spending one day in York! As you now know, it’s a fantastic city with tons to do. I’m already trying to plan my next visit – I’m thinking December as I’m a sucker for Christmas markets.

Have you ever been to York? What did you think?

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About Kelsey Frey

Kelsey is a blogger and freelance writer originally from California, but currently navigating her newfound digital nomad life in Europe. If you're curious about an honest account of life without a permanent address, you can follow her on Instagram @sightsbetterseen or pop over to her blog at Sights Better Seen for more about her (mis)adventures.

2 thoughts on “York in a Day: The Perfect One-Day Itinerary for York, England”

Love the details and breakdown. Never been to York but you really have me wanting to take a trip. Would you recommend this for a family trip? Bars etc aside. Seems like a great place for everyone.

I think it would be great for a family trip!

Comments are closed.

The 11 best things to do in York on your next visit

Jan 1, 2022 • 7 min read

A narrow laneway of 'The Shambles', which is a centre piece of historic York © Chris Lawrence Travel/Shutterstock

With its Roman and Viking history, and hurly-burly medieval core, York is one of England’s must-see cities. Don’t be fooled, though, this isn’t a place stuck in the past. Its walkable center is filled with indie restaurants , quirky shops and inventive drinking dens – a testament to York’s vibrant present-day pulse.  

Arrive at the handsome station (it’s around two hours from London) and dive into our suggestions of the best things to do in York; you’ll soon be swept off your feet by the city’s picture-postcard sights as well as its fun, maverick side. 

Let York Minster draw your gaze towards the heavens

One of York’s great treats is how often, when turning a cobblestone corner or squeezing down an age-old alley, you bump into its soaring cathedral, York Minster . Renowned as one of the world’s medieval Gothic masterpieces, it’s worth getting up close to the interior craftsmanship. Here you’ll find 700-year-old vaulted ceilings and nose-picking gargoyles illuminated by the building’s 128 stained-glass windows.

A trip to the interactive museum in the undercroft reveals details of York’s 2000-year-old history and its tower reaches dizzying heights above the city's rooftops. You can climb to the top for some stunning views of York but be warned – the ancient stairwells are claustrophic and those with a fear of heights should probably stick to admiring the stained-glass windows from the inside.

Step back in time in the Shambles

One of the best-preserved medieval streets in Europe, many of the Shambles’ wonky timber-framed houses date back to the 15th century. Despite its much-photographed charm, this street once housed the city’s butchers and slaughterhouses. The overhanging buildings, which in places almost kiss above the narrow cobbled lane, were designed to shelter shelves of meat from the sun. Nowadays, it’s worth visiting to briefly become part of the hubbub and browse the eccentric collection of independent shops. Slip down an alleyway for lunch in Shambles Market .

Hunt for ghosts

With a centuries-old history littered with turmoil and treachery, it’s little wonder York has a penchant for ghost stories. Even skeptics will be hard-pressed not to enjoy one of the city’s highly rated ghost walks. Led by knowledgeable performers, The Bloody Tour of York , Shadows of York , and The Deathly Dark Ghost Tour all promise plenty of macabre fun. Like your phantoms a little more tangible? As an antidote to mass-produced knickknacks, York Ghost Merchants sell diminutive handcrafted spooks from its theatrical shop on the Shambles.    

Spot trains at the National Railway Museum

Until the 1960s, the vast exhibition halls of the free-to-enter National Railway Museum were part of York’s busy railway works. Now they tell the story of extraordinary engineering feats and house gleaming locomotives and plush royal carriages. Young rail enthusiasts will delight in discovering you can climb aboard many of the exhibits, including a Japanese bullet train. For a small charge, take a ride on the world’s fastest steam locomotive. You can explore more of North Yorkshire and beyond by train if the idea of gazing upon beautiful countryside from the comfort of a reclining seat is right up your track.

Head down the pub for a quick drink (or two) 

Famed for its diverse drinking dens, it would seem rude not to pop into one of York’s many pubs. Some of the city’s oak-paneled taverns have been serving up booze since Tudor times, although if you want to time warp back to the 12th century, take a pew at the House of the Trembling Madness on Stonegate. For a more contemporary feel, and a selection of 40 taps, there’s Brew York’s mural-festooned beer hall. Fancy a pint with a view? At the Lamb and Lion Inn , you can spy the Minster from the beer garden; the King’s Arms overlooks the meandering River Ouse. 

Walk the city walls

Perfect for history buffs, couples and snoopers alike, a stroll along York’s City Walls allows you to peer down onto timeworn snickleways (alleyways) and courtyard gardens from atop the longest medieval ramparts in England. Free to walk, and containing four grand ‘bars’ or gates to the city, these 13th-century fortifications are, in fact, the new kids on the block; the Roman walls lie underneath, protruding briefly in York’s tranquil Museum Gardens . 

It takes a couple of hours to wander the 3.4-kilometer loop, peeping through arrowslits and digesting information boards. You can even pause for a flat white at the cafe within the cannon-scarred Walmgate Bar. Alternatively, ramble a shorter section; the portion between Bootham and Monk bars has superb Minster views. 

York Art Gallery offers Old Masters, modern wonders and ceramics

York Art Gallery offers a welcome respite from the city clamor. The main exhibitions are free to admire; in The Burton Gallery, artworks by Italian Old Masters rub shoulders with 20th-century abstract paintings. Look out for L.S Lowry’s depiction of York’s handsome Clifford’s Tower surrounded by his distinctive matchstick mob. The real draw, though, is the gallery’s Centre for Ceramic Art . Here, prehistoric pots through to glazed delftware are curated to form a 17-meter-long ceramic rainbow. 

Learn more about Vikings and Victorians at York’s museums

Championing immersive experiences long before that was a thing, York’s museums excel at transporting you into the past. At the JORVIK Viking Centre , you’re treated to a smells-and-all ride through the cultural melting pot that was 10th-century York. The animatronic dioramas are based on evidence unearthed while excavating the Viking settlement below the building. 

At the York Castle Museum , visitors are likewise encouraged to see artifacts in context: cue a stroll down a dimly lit Victorian Street and hear what life was like for captured highwayman Dick Turpin in the cell that held him (the building was once York’s notorious prison). 

For a more refined slice of history, the Fairfax House is a rarified gem. Padding through this restored Georgian townhouse gives a glimpse into the lives of 18th-century gentlefolk, as well as a few lessons in interior design. Touring the Treasurer’s House , on the other hand, feels like falling down a rabbit hole into a curious oversized doll’s house, filled with furnishings through the ages.

Enjoy afternoon tea

York has no shortage of places to dine on dainty sandwiches and cream-laden scones, washed down with a fragrant brew. At The Grand , tiers of nibbles are served in 5-star surroundings, whereas afternoon tea at Forest at Galtres Lodge involves a tea pairing menu and miniature Yorkshire puddings. It’s even possible to enjoy a sophisticated cuppa aboard a restored train carriage at the National Railway Museum. 

Most locals, though, would cry sacrilege if Bettys wasn’t on your list of locations to sate a mid-afternoon peckishness. Be prepared to queue, but wolfing down one of their fat rascal fruit scones amid scurrying, white-aproned staff is something of a York rite of passage. 

Get a taste for York’s chocolate past

While other northern cities were busy with textiles and steel, York’s Victorian industrialists were building confectionary empires; Kit-Kat and Terry’s Chocolate Orange were both created in the city’s sweet-smelling factories. 

While not inexpensive, York’s Chocolate Story does a good job at immersing visitors in this history: the interactive tour includes plenty of toothsome treats. At York Cocoa House there are workshops and tasting tours. This independent factory aims to carry the baton for York’s chocolate heritage, with a modern-day focus on eco-conscious and fair-trade practices. 

Sample street food at Spark:York

It’s hard not to fall for Spark:York’s inclusive community feel. This split-level market, created from brightly daubed shipping containers, brings together local indie restaurants and bars on a once disused civic space. Groups can mix and match their orders, choosing from hand-stretched pizzas, incredible fried chicken, and plant-based tacos and burgers. Kids will love the ice-cream cookie sandwiches served by Melk ; their parents may opt for a craft beer. 

You might also like:  Yorkshire's best castles, cathedrals and stately homes Gin, rum and vodka: Yorkshire’s best distillery experiences Say cheese! How the Yorkshire Dales are reviving cheesemaking traditions  

This article was first published October 2021 and updated January 2022

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Travels with Erica

A Solo Traveller's Guide to the World

How to Travel from London to York (The Easy Way!)

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York is one of the most beautiful cities in the UK, but it is also extremely underrated. It is the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of London. The best part: it is super easy to travel from London to York!

You can visit York as a day trip from London, but I suggest spending a weekend there to get a better sense of what York has to offer.

You’ll be happy you booked the extra day in York once you get there and fall in love with the city!

The two main ways to travel from London to York are by train and bus. The train is significantly faster than the bus, but it is also quite a bit more expensive. The bus takes almost five times as long as the train. It is a good option for people on a tight budget that are spending multiple days in York. It is not a good option for people taking a day trip to York from London. You’ll need to take the train if you’re doing a day trip.

In this post, we’re going taking an in-depth look at both the train and bus to help you decide how you want to travel from London to York.

Both modes of transportation have their pros and cons, and this post will help you figure out what is right for you!

Table of Contents

Before We Get Started

One of my least favourite parts of travel is figuring out how to travel from one city to the next.

That’s why I create these travel guides for you!

Having all the information you need to decide how to travel from one city to the next is a time saver.

I’ve written a few other UK transportation guides. Hopefully they can help you plan your holiday!

• How to travel from London to Bath
• How to travel from Brighton to London
• How to travel from London to Disneyland Paris
• How to travel from Heathrow to Central London
• How to travel from Gatwick to Central London

Options One: Taking the Train from London to York

I think taking the train to York from London is your best option.

It is the most expensive option, but it is the quickest. If you’re only visit York as a day trip or are on a short holiday, it is worth the extra money to take the train rather than the bus.

One of the perks of taking the train (although it should not be a deciding factor) is you can connect to free wifi onboard!

This makes the journey go by quickly, and you can plan what you’re going to do in York on your way there!

Just be sure you protect your online information and data by installing a VPN on your devices!

You never know where or when someone might decide to try to hack into your phone and find your banking information!

How Long Does the Train from London to York Take?

The train is super quick!

You can travel to York from London in less than 2 hours! In many cases, it takes just over an hour to arrive in York from London!

The difference in time depends on how busy the tracks are and how many stops the train takes.

This information will be readily available when you’re booking your tickets so be sure to pay attention to it!

If you need to get to York as quickly as possible, make sure you’re buying a ticket for the fastest train possible!

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How Much Does a Train Ticket Cost?

This is the part that hurts.

And I mean really hurts!

Train tickets in the UK are not cheap. In fact, they are outrageously expensive in my opinion.

It is hard to pinpoint an exact price because there are so many factors that go into it, but you can expect to pay between £20 and £100 for a one-way ticket.

On average, tickets costs between £29 and £54.

Yikes right!

That is a pretty penny for an hour train ride! There is no way around it though.

A train ticket from London to York is going to be expensive, but there are some ways you can reduce the price.

Train tickets are less expensive the further you are from the departure date. They get more expensive the closer the day of departure is.

Tickets normally go on sale 3 to 6 months in advance, and you want to buy them as close to 3 to 6 months in advance as possible.

I know this is a bit of a pain. Especially if you’re more of a wing it kind of traveller like me.

But the advance planning is very much worth it when you realize how much money buying your ticket in advance can save you.

Other factors that go into the cost of a ticket include the time of day and day of the week you travel.

The number of stops also impacts the price of your ticket.

Essentially, if you travel during peak times on a train with limited stops, you will be paying a premium for the convenience.

If you travel during off-peak times on a weekday on a train that makes multiple stops, you will save money on your ticket.

Where to Purchase Train Tickets

You can either purchase train tickets online in advance (recommended) or buy them in-person at the train station before you depart.

I prefer to purchase my train tickets online in advance, so I can save money on my ticket!

There are multiple website where you can purchase train tickets, but I prefer to buy mine through the rail agency operating the route.

In the case of the London to York train, it is operated by London North Eastern Railway .

It is super easy to buy your tickets through their website . They accept foreign credit cards, and the process is quite smooth.

You may have to pick up your ticket at a ticket machine before departure, but it doesn’t take long at all.

You simply type in your reservation code and last name, and your ticket pop right out!

The other option is to purchase your ticket at the station before departure.

This is a great option for last-minute travellers or people who want to pay with cash.

The price of your ticket will probably be much more expensive though since it is so close to the time of departure.

Either way works great, and it really depends on the type of traveller you are!

Where Does the Train Depart from in London?

All train from London to York depart from Kings Cross Station.

Kings Cross Station is one of the largest train stations in London so be sure to leave yourself a lot of time to find your platform in the maze of the station.

Especially if it is your first time being in Kings Cross Station!

Kings Cross Station is located in central London and is serviced by the following underground lines:

• Hammersmith & City
• Metropolitan

Yeah. I wasn’t kidding when I said it was one of the biggest stations in London. Those are just the underground lines and don’t include the overground trains going to and from other cities!

There is clear signage throughout the station, so you shouldn’t have too much of an issue finding your platform.

If you have any issues, there are tons of information booths around the station you can stop and ask for help at.

Where Does the Train Arrive at in York?

You will arrive at York Railway Station.

The railway station is located a touch outside of central York, but it isn’t much of an inconvenience.

You can walk to central York in 15 to 20 minutes.

You can also hop on a bus if you don’t want to walk. Or, of course, you can always take a taxi to central York. It shouldn’t cost more than £6.

All things considered, York Railway Station is in a pretty good location, and it isn’t much of an issue getting from it to hustle and bustle of central York.

Pros of Taking the Train from London to York

• It is the quickest mode of transportation available
• Convenient departure and arrival locations
• Many trains run from London to York throughout the day

Cons of Taking the Train from London to York

• It can be quite expensive
• You have to plan and purchase your tickets in advance
• Luggage store can be limited on the train

Option Two: Taking the Bus from London to York

Your next best option is to take the bus from London to York.

The bus takes significantly longer than the train, so it isn’t the right option for everybody.

I would only recommend the bus if you’re on a longer trip and can dedicate the better part of a day travelling from London to York.

If you have the time in your schedule, taking the long way to York from London is a great way to save some money.

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How Long Does the Bus from London to York Take?

The average length of the bus trip to York from London is 6 hours.

Yup. At least three times longer than the train. In a lot of cases, it takes 5 more hours to travel by bus than by train!

Your bus ride could take longer than 6 hours as well. If you get stuck in a traffic jam, there is no telling how long it will take you to get to York from London.

Just keep that in mind when you’re deciding how to travel from London to York!

How Much Does a Bus Ticket Cost?

This is the best part about taking the bus to York from London.

Bus tickets start at £7.50!

Sometimes you may have to pay a little more than that, but it will be way less expensive than taking the train!

You also don’t have to worry about booking your bus ticket in advance like you have to with the train.

Bus tickets don’t increase in price the closer you get to the date of departure, so you don’t have to stress about pre-planning your trip to York.

Where to Purchase Bus Tickets

Just like with the train, you can either purchase your tickets online in advance or buy them at the bus terminal on the day of departure.

There isn’t really a benefit to choosing one over the other so choose what works best for you!

There are a couple different website you can purchase bus tickets through.

My two favourites are National Express and Megabus .

I would check out both providers and find the price and departure time that suits you best.

Your other option is to purchase tickets at the bus terminal right before you depart.

Just be sure you look at the bus schedule online to know when the bus is departing and arrive at the station with plenty of time to purchase your ticket in case there is a line.

Where Does the Bus Depart from in London?

Buses from London to York depart from Victoria Coach Station.

It is right in the heart of London and is a super convenient location.

It is a very busy station though. Be sure you leave yourself plenty of time to figure out where you’re going and where you need to be.

The following underground lines have stops at Victoria Station:

The coach station is just steps away from the underground station and is quite easy to find.

Just follow the signs!

Where Does the Bus Arrive at in York?

Buses arrive at York Bus Station.

It is right beside the train station and is in a convenient location.

Just like the train station, you either need to walk, take a bus, or grab a taxi to get to central York.

It is a pretty easy journey though and won’t take long.

Pros of Taking the Bus from London to York

• It is the least expensive option
• Dedicated luggage storage under the bus
• You don’t have to purchase your tickets in advance

Cons of Taking the Bus from London to York

• It takes a long time to arrive in York
• There aren’t as many departure times as the train
• May run into traffic and be delayed

Option Three: Renting a Car and Driving

The final way you can travel from London to Bath is by renting a car and driving.

I don’t recommend this option unless it is part of a larger road trip around England.

Renting a car just to drive from London to York isn’t worth the hassle. By the time you pick up the car, drive it, find parking, drive back to London, and fill it up with gas, it doesn’t save you time or more.

So, there are really only two viable ways to travel from London to York: by train or by bus.

Both options have their pros and cons, and it really comes down to have much time you have and what your budget it.

I personally think it is worth the extra money to take the train, but I know not everybody has a big enough budget for that.

If you do take the bus, I highly, highly recommend you spend two or three days in York to make the travel time worth it.

If you have to take the bus and only have one day to spend in York, I think you’re better off staying in London and exploring more of it.

No matter how you choose to travel to York from London, it is well worth the journey.

York is a beautiful city, and it is a nice compliment to London. It gives you more of an idea of what life outside of London is like as well as different architectural styles.

Related Posts

• How to Travel from London to Bath (The Easy Way!)
• How to Get From Heathrow to Central London
• How to Get From Gatwick to Central London

• Tours from London - Out of London Tours >

York Day Tour by Train from London

York is one of the most historic cities in England and is perfect for a day out from London. You have the option to choose between a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour of York or entry to Clifford’s Tower or both.

The city grew during the medieval period, leaving behind iconic landmarks such as York Minster, a stunning Gothic cathedral with roots dating back to the 7th century. Explore the well-preserved medieval city walls, which offer panoramic views of the historic center and Clifford’s Tower.

York is famous for its narrow medieval streets lined with timber-framed buildings, the best known of which is The Shambles, which provides a glimpse into the city’s past and options for shopping, cafes, and pubs

Clifford’s Tower

Clifford’s Tower in York has a fascinating history dating back to the 11th century when it was originally built by William the Conqueror as part of York Castle. The tower was initially constructed in wood and was later rebuilt in stone in the 13th century by Henry III. It served various purposes throughout history, including as a royal mint, treasury, and military stronghold. In 1190, the tower was the site of a tragic event known as the York massacre. Today, Clifford’s Tower stands as a poignant reminder of York’s medieval past. It is a popular historical attraction for visitors. You can enjoy panoramic views of York from the top of the Tower.

Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Tour

Explore York at your leisure. Hop on and off at any of the  20 stops conveniently located by the city’s main sites. The route will take you around the ancient city, the famous medieval streets, the Shambles, museums and galleries such as the Castle Museum, and York Minster, the extraordinary Gothic Cathedral with its outstanding stained-glass windows.

Route Map and Places to Visit

There is an audio guide available in English, Spanish, French, German, Polish, Russian, Mandarin, Cantonese, and Japanese.

other places to visit include

The Shambles and surrounding Medieval Streets

The Railway Museum

Micklegate Bar

Jorvick Viking Center

York Army Museum

The Ancient City Walls

• Visit Clifford’s Tower and take a tour of the city on a hop-on hop-off bus as selected.
• Spend the rest of your day exploring the city highlights. York is famous for York Minster, the largest medieval Gothic cathedral in Europe. It’s an inspiring place to visit, with magnificent stained glass windows and impressive arches.
• Visit the Jorvik Viking Centre (entrance ticket not included), and discover how the Vikings lived over 1,000 years ago. There are loads of interactive and engaging displays that make for a fascinating visit, with something for both adults and children.
• Walk through the Shambles, the narrow ancient streets of York that house a collection of local shops and cafes. These are considered some of the prettiest streets in England. From here, you can walk to the pretty River Ouse.
• Why not visit the Castle Museum, which explores English history and way of life over the past several hundred years
• Walk along a section of the City Walls we suggest from the Mickelgate Bar. The Romans built these walls, and they are today a perfect way to get an overview of the city.

Travel Times

• London to York – Monday to Friday Outbound Journey:  Departure: 9:00 am , Arrival: 10:51 am Return Journey:  Departure: 6:59 pm , Arrival: 8:53 pm

More information

• Guests will receive an email at least five days before travel with the train e-tickets and Hop-On Hop-Off Bus or Clifford’s Tower ticket.
• A full refund will be issued if cancelled up to seven days prior to the travel date.
• This tour is unescorted.
• Train seats are allocated on first come first served basis & not guaranteed together.
• Train times can fluctuate. Please refer to actual train e-tickets for exact departure times.
• Children aged 15 and under must be accompanied by a paying adult. Under 5s are not allowed.
• Please arrive at least 30 minutes before train departure time.

Tour Booking

Terms and conditions, you might also be interested.

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Liverpool & The Beatles Day Tour by Train from London

Stonehenge & Bath Tour from London

York Travel Guide (including essential travel tips, itinerary + map)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: December 6, 2022

Our York Travel Guide includes recommended places to visit and things to do, accommodation options, tips and more for one of the most beautiful of England’s cities. Everything you need to plan your visit and essential reading for any visitor to York!

PLAN YOUR TRIP TO YORK

Located in the county of Yorkshire York is a popular city for visitors from around the globe. With a historical legacy from the Romans and Vikings and medieval streets of cobblestones, this walled city is the perfect place for a weekend visit or to break the journey by train from London to Edinburgh .

If you are visiting York you will find everything you need to plan your trip in this guide plus information about the county of Yorkshire.

What you will find in this complete York Travel Guide

Map of York

Things to do in York (and Yorkshire)

Discover the best things to see and do in York with my guide to the city, itinerary suggestions plus guide to the best day trips from York.

THINGS TO DO IN YORK

YORKSHIRE TRAVEL GUIDE

BEST DAY TRIPS & TOURS FROM YORK

Places to visit in York include

York Minster

The Shambles

National Railway Museum

JORVIK Viking Centre

Clifford’s Tower

York City Walls

York Castle Museum

York’s Chocolate Story

Bettys Tea Rooms

Listen to our Podcast about visiting York

Accommodation in york.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN YORK

Find more accommodation options in my Accommodation Guide for England.

How to get to York from London

York is easily accessible from London. If you are based in the capital there are a number of options to get to the city.

Option 1 – By car

York is located 200 miles to the north of London.

Plan at least 4 hours to drive between the 2 cities (this will vary depending on traffic but it can be a busy route). Other English cities you will pass along the way are Leicester, Nottingham, Sheffield and Leeds.

Directions can be found here.

If you are planning a short day trip to York I recommend parking in one of the Park & Ride car parks and taking the free bus into the city.

Option 2: By train

York is easy to reach by train from any major city in the UK.

York train station is a 10 minute walk from the centre of the city.

The trip takes an average of 3 hours from London and 2 hours from Edinburgh

It is possible to take a direct train from London to York. Click here for train times and tickets.

Option 3: By bus

It is possible to take a bus from Victoria Coach Station to York. The journey takes approximately 6 hours.

This is the cheapest way to travel to York from London though so if you are on a budget this may be your best option. Click here for coach times and prices from National Express.

Read more – Complete transportation guide to the UK

Experiences, tickets and tours in York

With so many things to do and places to visit in York I recommend planning your itinerary and purchasing tours, tickets and experiences as soon as you can to avoid disappointment especially during the busy summer months.

A York city pass is a great option and includes entrance to 25 popular York attractions including the JORVIK Viking Centre, York Minster, York Castle Museum, York’s Chocolate Story. Click for more information about the York City Pass.

• River Ouse City Cruise – Spend a relaxing hour on the River Ouse and see the sights of York from a different perspective.
• York’s Chocolate Story: Guided Tour – Explore York’s chocolate history and learn about the origins of chocolate and about York’s founding confectionery families.
• York Minster and City Walking Tour – This 2-hour walking tour provides you with fantastic insights into the most historic and world-famous sites in York. Start with the Romans then explore the ‘Snickelways’ of York and complete your tour at the magical York Minster.

> Click here for more tickets and tours in York

Best Yorkshire day trips from York

York is the perfect base to explore the surrounding Yorkshire countryside, seaside towns along England’s eastern coast, areas of natural beauty and places of historical significance.

The Yorkshire Dales, the coastal town of Whitby, the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Saltaire, Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden are all easy day trips from York.

If you are considering hiring a car and taking a day trip from York these are my top 5 destinations to consider:

• Castle Howard
• Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden

Read more: 10 best places to visit in Yorkshire

If you prefer to join an organised day trip from York these are just some of the destinations you can explore. *

(*Find more suggestions in my article which focuses on ALL the best day trips and tours from York)

• The Yorkshire Dales day tour from York
• The Bronte’s Parsonage Tour
• Steam train, Whitby and North Yorkshire Moors

Where to eat in York

There are many wonderful teahouses, cafes, gastropubs and restaurants in York.

Betty’s Tea Rooms

No visit to York is complete without a visit to Bettys Tea Rooms. Open since 1936 the beautiful interiors are inspired by the Queen Mary liner.

Visit for afternoon tea and sample the delights of Bettys for yourself.

Where – 6-8 St. Helen’s Square York YO1 8QP

Shambles Market

Enjoy York’s growing street food scene at the Shambles Market. There are plenty of options to suit all tastes including Indian, Thai, Mexican.

Don’t miss the burritos from Smokehouse which are priced from just £6.50.

Where – The Shambles Market, 5 Silver St, York YO1 8RY

Tips for visiting York & Yorkshire

• If you want to see the highlights of York consider joining this best of York guided walking tour or take the hop-on hop-off bus around the city.
• If York is just one of the places you wish to visit in Yorkshire don’t underestimate the size of the county! It is England’s largest county and is roughly half the size of Belgium. It can be divided into 4 smaller areas – North Yorkshire, West Yorkshire, East Yorkshire and South Yorkshire.
• There are are some large cities in Yorkshire such as York, Leeds, Sheffield, Bradford and Ripon but also lots of charming towns and villages too.
• The Yorkshire Dales National Park covers thousands of square miles (in fact most of the county) and includes moors, valleys, hills, waterfalls and villages within its boundaries.
• There are numerous hiking trails in the park including the Ingleton Waterfalls Trail, Yorkshire Three Peaks and Malham Cove and Gordale Scar. If you are planning a hike ensure you prepare thoroughly.
• There are two Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty in North Yorkshire which are the Howardian Hills and Nidderdale.
• Our guide to 19 of the best day trips in Yorkshire has lots of great ideas too.

Tips for driving in Yorkshire

• If you are planning to hire a car and drive in Yorkshire it is important to pick the right rental car. In rural areas the roads may be single lane with no central line so don’t choose a large SUV or saloon car if there are only 2 of you.
• If you wish to stop to admire the views ensure it is safe to do so.
• In winter the weather conditions can change rapidly and snow can often make the roads impassable. There may also be no mobile signal in more isolated spots so ensure you share your travel plans before setting out.
• If you prefer to avoid driving there are a number of tours which you can join to enjoy the sights of the Yorkshire Dales.
• While there are 15 public car parks available around the city of York I recommend accessing one of the 6 Park & Ride services which allow you to park for free in a secure car park and complete your journey into the city by bus. You can find out more about this scheme here .

Books to read about York

More uk travel guides.

• 10 Places to visit in Yorkshire
• Things to do in Whitby
• Peak District Travel Guide
• Chester Travel Guide
• Liverpool Travel Guide
• Durham Travel Guide

Looking for more inspiration for your travels in England? Check out my England Travel Planning Guide which has loads of ideas, tips and resources to plan your itinerary.

The Most Perfect One Week Yorkshire Road Trip Itinerary

By: Author Angela Price

Posted on Last updated: September 21, 2023

A driving holiday in Yorkshire is the perfect place to take a road trip in England. You can rest assured that this beautiful northern county is a treasure trove waiting to be discovered.

You will be able to visit medieval castles, stately homes and beautiful Yorkshire villages and towns and immerse yourself in the Yorkshire national parks, some of the most beautiful areas of countryside in the UK.

And let’s not forget the stunning coastal walks and sandy beaches in Yorkshire that are a magnet for locals and tourists in the warmer months – there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Without a doubt, Yorkshire is a fabulous destination to explore on one of the best road trips in the UK.

This post will help you to plan your Yorkshire road trip itinerary. It follows my driving route and includes where I stayed in Yorkshire and the Yorkshire attractions I visited. Depending on your schedule, it can be tweaked for you to spend either more or fewer days in Yorkshire.

This travel guide may contain affiliate links – For more information, please read my  disclaimer and privacy policy.

Do you need to arrange travel insurance, car hire or accommodation? Please check out my  resources page  to help you plan your trip.

Table of Contents

Planning a Trip to Yorkshire

Epic 6-night / 7-day yorkshire road trip itinerary.

If you want to spend longer in Yorkshire, I suggest adding another day in Whitby and York.

Whitby – one night

Howardian Hills – two nights

York – one night

Harrogate – two nights

No time to read right now? Pin for later!

Drive time from London to Whitby is approximately five hours, depending on traffic.

Yorkshire map.

Yorkshire is England’s largest county with a population bigger than Scotland.

We started our week-long Yorkshire road trip itinerary in Whitby and arrived in the early evening. I chose Whitby as the first stop on my itinerary as I had always wanted to see the famous Whitby Abbey and follow in Dracula’s footsteps.

Yes, you have read that correctly! Bram Stoker created Dracula after he spent time in Whitby, and the 199 steps leading from the harbour to the abbey are featured in the Dracula novel.

Supposedly, this is one of Whitby’s most popular tourist attractions, and I have to say there were plenty of people walking up and down the steps when I visited.

Of course, there are many things to do in Whitby besides vampire hunting, but Whitby Abbey is undoubtedly one of the most famous attractions in Yorkshire.

One night in Whitby at The Resolution Hotel

We spent our first night in Yorkshire at The Resolution Hotel. The hotel offers en-suite accommodation in the heart of Whitby and is home to the renowned Vault restaurant and Main Deck bar.

Our room at the Resolution had impressive views over the town’s rooftops to Whitby Abbey.

Whitby is the UK’s number one destination for lovers of the quintessential British seaside meal. Make sure to check out  the best fish and chip shops in Whitby  on your visit. 

Spend Day One in Whitby and the Yorkshire Moors

Whitby abbey.

There are so many attractions in Whitby, but the gothic ruins of the Benedictine monastery Whitby Abbey , are the most impressive.

Perched high on a hill above the town, the views across Whitby harbour are fabulous. Wander around the ruins, look inside the museum and visit St Mary’s church, where you will find Dracula’s grave!

Once you’ve finished exploring the abbey ruins, visit the Captain Cook Museum and learn all about the famous captain who departed Whitby to sail around the world and eventually discovered Australia!

A photo spot in Whitby is by the whalebone arch on the hill opposite Whitby Abbey. It attests to the town’s past importance in the whaling trade.

Thankfully whaling stopped a while back, but fishing in Whitby is still important to the local economy. A stroll along the pier will give you information on Whitby’s past and present maritime history.

Back in town, wander along the cobbled streets and dip into some of Whitby’s jewellery shops to see the black jet made famous as mourning jewellery by Queen Victoria. You may even find a piece to take home as a souvenir.

If you are an English Heritage membership holder , entry to Whitby Abbey is free.

Activities in Whitby

Drive time from whitby to robin hood’s bay is 15 minutes, north york moors national park.

The North York Moors is one of three national parks in Yorkshire. The other two are the Yorkshire Dales National Park and parts of the Peak District National Park.

The North York Moors have some of the most breathtaking landscapes in England, giving Yorkshire the accolade of being ‘God’s Own County’.

The North York Moors also contains one of the largest expanses of heather moorland in the United Kingdom. Our first day in Yorkshire was spent driving to these different locations within the National Park.

Robin Hood’s Bay

Robin Hood’s Bay has a colourful history of smugglers and ghosts, and this sleepy fishing village on the Yorkshire coast is a delight to explore. If you have ever visited Rye in East Sussex , it will give you some idea of what Robin Hood’s Bay is like.

All along the cobbled lanes, you can see quaint cottages with brightly coloured flowers clinging to their facades.

The charm continues with independent shops, art galleries, and old-world pubs peeping out from their precarious positions along the steep hill that leads down to the beach.

The large sandy beach is picture-perfect, with fishing boats bobbing on the water and children scouring rock pools for signs of sea creatures.

I bought ice cream from local favourite “Dollies sweet shop” before paddling in the sea and enjoying the calming views.

There are two walking routes in the area to explore. One is part of “The Cleveland Way” and is an iconic seven mile-track from Robin Hood’s Bay to Whitby.

The second walk is a shorter 1.5-mile trail from Robin Hood’s Bay to Fylinghall and is part of the longer “The Cinder Track”. This disused railway track has incredible views of Yorkshire’s countryside and coastline.

Drive Time from Robin Hood’s Bay to Rosedale is 45 minutes

A stunning Yorkshire scenic drive is through the moors and down the winding country lanes in Rosedale en route to the charming Dale Head Farm Tea Garden .

Home-baked cakes, many made to ancient Yorkshire recipes, will have your mouth-watering. Order from the counter, sit in the picturesque garden and relax!

Afterwards, head to Rosedale Bank Top Kilns in the North Yorkshire Moors National Park for incredible views. Bring a picnic, follow the steep road from Rosedale and park the car by Bank Top Kilns.

You will get the most stunning views of the Yorkshire countryside from here, with only sheep for company!

Walkers might like to follow the Rosedale Trail and discover how this sleepy area was once a hub of industry in the Iron Age.

In the late afternoon, head to the Howardian Hills for your next two nights in Yorkshire.

Drive Time from Rosedale to the Howardian Hills – 40 minutes

Two nights’ accommodation at the librarians cottage on the castle howard estate, spend day two in the howardian hills, drive time from the howardian hills to rievaulx abbey – 20 minutes, rievaulx abbey.

Rievaulx Abbey dates back to 1132AD and remains one of the most complete of England’s abbey ruins. The ruins are spectacular, and the site is a pleasant place to relax and enjoy a picnic or refreshments from the cafe.

There is a popular scenic 7-mile circular walking route from  Helmsley Castle to Rievaulx Abbey  for keen walkers.

Parking for Rievaulx Abbey can be found on-site or in the nearby privately-owned field. There is a small parking fee for both locations.

How to find Rievaulx Abbey : Rievaulx, Nr Helmsley, North Yorkshire, YO62 5LB

If you are an English Heritage membership holder , entry to Rievaulx Abbey is free.

Richmond is an elegant market town in the Yorkshire Dales, is 950 years old and was the first location in the world to be given the place name Richmond.

It also holds the title of having the best-preserved Norman castle in England, so with credentials like those, you will want to add this historic town to your Yorkshire road trip itinerary.

Like many Yorkshire towns, its central hub is the cobbled marketplace lined with Georgian and Victorian architecture and home to quite a few pubs from what I saw!

There are several walks in Richmond and numerous hiking trails to discover in the surrounding Yorkshire Dales.

One takes you through the town and down to the small waterfalls in the local park. Watch out in summer as this area becomes a magnet for teenagers!

If you want to see the ruins of Easby Abbey, you can walk the mile-long route alongside the River Swale. The ruins date back to the 12th century and are maintained by English Heritage .

When it’s time for refreshments, head to The Station , a converted Victorian railway station by the local leisure centre’s car park. It has a cafe and ice-cream parlour, some art and craft exhibits and if you fancy watching a film, it even has a cinema. 

Drive Time from Richmond to Wensleydale is 45 minutes

Wensleydale.

Fans of Wallace and Gromit will know that Wensleydale is the home of these animated characters.

It is a typical Yorkshire village, with its main tourist attraction being the Wensleydale Creamery, where Cistercian monks first started making Wensleydale cheese in 1150.

There are several pubs in Wensleydale if you want to stop for lunch and a pint.

Drive Time from Wensleydale to Castle Bolton – 20 minutes

Bolton castle.

Bolton Castle is a spectacular medieval fortress preserved in outstanding condition. It is situated in the heart of Wensleydale, inside the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

The castle was built in the 14th century as one of England’s finest and most luxurious homes.

Visitors to the castle can see the medieval Mary Garden (Catholic Garden), herb garden, vineyard & maze, rose gardens & falconry displays. The adult entry fee for the castle and gardens is £12.50

How to find Bolton Castle : Leyburn, North Yorkshire DL8 4ET

In the late afternoon, head back to the Howardian Hills.

Spend Day Three in the Howardian Hills

From the Librarian’s Cottage , it was a quick 5-minute drive to the magnificent Castle Howard stately home and grounds.

Castle Howard

Castle Howard is one of Britain’s most beautiful privately-owned stately homes and one of the grand palaces of Europe. The sprawling estate covers over and has been home to the Howard family for the last 300 years and is a must-visit on a Yorkshire road trip.

Fans of the Netflix series Bridgerton might spot that parts of the series were filmed in this location.

The estate comprises a manor house, extensive grounds, mesmerising lakes, a walled garden, folly temples and a wooded area.

There is an adventure playground for younger family members, and for refreshments, there are several eateries and a fantastic farm shop selling local Yorkshire products.

Castle Howard should be on every Yorkshire itinerary as it is a jewel in Yorkshire’s crown.

We spent around 5 hours at Castle Howard. This time included going inside the house, wandering around the grounds, having lunch and relaxing by the lake.

How to find Castle Howard: Castle Howard Estate, York, YO60 7DA

Drive Time from Castle Howard to Yorkshire Lavender – 10 minutes

Yorkshire lavender.

I love visiting the UK’s most beautiful lavender farms , and Yorkshire Lavender was no exception. The owners have put a lot of thought into how they have planted their lavender, creating a beautiful setting with the backdrop of rolling Yorkshire hills.

A gift shop selling everything you can think of relating to lavender is sure to impress. I ended up buying up half the shop myself, but then I do love lavender!

A small cafe selling light bites, ice creams and drinks is also on-site.

Find Yorkshire Lavender in Terrington, York, YO60 6PB

Spend Day Four in York

Head to york, drive time from howardian hills to york – 30 minutes, one night accommodation in york at the travelodge mickelgate.

Travelodge at Micklegate Hotel was a 10-minute walk from the famous York landmarks. 

We chose a travel lodge for our night in York because it had free on-site parking. This is a massive bonus in York, as parking spots are hard to find. We arrived well before our check-in time and were able to park the car at the hotel and go out to explore York.

Explore the City of York

No Yorkshire road trip would be complete without visiting York, one of England’s favourite cities and one of the most amazing places in the UK, for a one-night break.

It is steeped in history, and there are so many things to do in York, from exploring the famous city walls and the must-see York Minster Cathedral to visiting York Castle Museum, the Jorvik Viking Centre and the York Dungeons.

For Harry Potter fans, a guided tour along The Shambles and a look at the HP shops will be on every muggle’s bucket list.

While taking an evening ghost tour or themed witches tour around Britain’s most haunted city is a must for all visitors to York. You won’t believe how many ghosts and ghouls wander around this medieval city!

We spent the day in York and enjoyed walking the city walls, looking in the shops, visiting York Minster Cathedral and enjoying lunch and a glass of wine at Merchants Adventurers Hall.

We booked a ghost tour in the evening and then had one of York’s famous Yorkshire pudding roast dinners.

When in York you just have to try this famous dish!

Activities in York

Spend day five in york.

We had a few hours to kill this morning and so headed back into York city centre for breakfast/brunch.

We chose to eat at Brew and Brownie as it had such good reviews – it turned out too good as we had to queue for a table! I have to say it was very good and worth the accolade of York’s best breakfast restaurant.

Afterwards, we went to York Castle Gardens to see the ruins and walk along the river.

It is a peaceful spot in an otherwise very busy city. And before leaving York, I had to pop into one of the most beautiful shops in York – The Yorkshire Soap Company – to buy some of their beauty products.

We didn’t make it to Betty’s Tea Rooms as our time in York had come to an end. However, do visit there if you have more time to spare.

Head to Harrogate

Drive time from york to harrogate – 45 minutes, two nights’ accommodation in harrogate at rudding park hotel.

Visitors can find Harrogate accommodation availability and pricing here on Booking.com

Spend Day Six in Harrogate

Harrogate is home to some of the best attractions in Yorkshire and a firm favourite for visitors to North Yorkshire. The Victorian spa town is a good spot for shoppers with a good range of independent and high street chain stores. 

Betty’s Cafe Tearooms  is a destination in its own right and began its story in Harrogate in 1919. The cafe started by selling Yorkshire’s famous ‘Fat Rascal’ scones before evolving into Harrogate’s must-visit attraction.

Harrogate is best known as a spa town for its  Victorian Turkish Spa Baths , dating back to 1897 and fully restored to their former glory. Spend some time relaxing in the warm baths before indulging in a full body massage – heaven!

Harrogate and its surrounding area are rich in historical sites, from medieval castles to stately homes and not forgetting  Fountains Abbey , Britain’s best-preserved monastic   abbey ruins, only a short drive away.

Spend Day Seven in the Yorkshire Dales

Check out of your harrogate hotel and continue your yorkshire road trip to pateley bridge., drive time from harrogate to pateley bridge – 30 minutes, pateley bridge.

Pateley Bridge is a small market town in Nidderdale near Harrogate. It is just outside the Yorkshire Dales National Park and is so pretty you can’t help but like it.

Comprising one main road lined with several independent shops, the first is the oldest sweet shop in England, dating back to the 17th century. Follow the  Pateley Bridge Heritage Trail  and find some other fascinating locations in the town.

Walk from the car park to the top of the road, and you will come across  Cocoa Joe’s , the chocolate drinks specialist. You can choose the origin of chocolate that you want your chocolate drink made from ( I chose Venezuela), and it was delicious.

A walk through the Pateley Bridge park and along the river is a relaxing way to spend a while or follow the hour-long Bewerley walking trail to Fishpond wood.

And before you leave this charming town, grab a bite to eat at The Bridge Inn, located by the bridge and river.

Drive Time from Pateley Bridge to Haworth – 60 minutes

Haworth and the bronte waterfall walk.

Haworth is a beautiful village in West Yorkshire and famous for being the home of the Bronte sisters.

The number one Haworth attraction is the Bronte Parsonage Museum, a look at the Bronte family’s lives in the early 1900s.

The rough and rugged Yorkshire landscape around the village inspired the setting of Wuthering Heights.

Haworth Railway Station is another great place to visit on a Yorkshire road trip and was the location for the iconic 1970s film ‘The Railway Children ‘. Watch the steam trains chugging past on their route through the Yorkshire countryside.  

Stroll through Bronte Country

For walkers, there are plenty of chances to enjoy the Yorkshire landscape. 

Top Withens Walk is a popular Yorkshire Dales walk and takes you out of Haworth along signposted pathways to the moorland that inspired the Brontes to write their epic novels. 

The Railway Children was also filmed in Haworth, and visitors can find a walking route map following locations from the film here.

Bronte Waterfall Walk is another charming walk to do and does not entail the climb up to Top Withens (I chose this as the easier option)

It takes you through the beautiful countryside and finishes with a small bridge and waterfall. Along the waterfall route, there is uneven terrain that is only suitable for walkers who are steady on their feet.

To reach the waterfall, the walk is 45 minutes from Haworth High Street or a 30-minute walk from Penistone Country Park, where you can park your car.

Following our final walk in Yorkshire, we climbed back into the car and started our journey home. Yorkshire has been a real eye-opener and one of the best UK road trips I have experienced.

Drive Time from Haworth to London – 4 hours and 30 minutes

Are you looking for yorkshire accommodation, please read my post: best yorkshire accommodation for a 7-night road trip ., are you interested in visiting other towns and villages in yorkshire, please read my post: 13 most stunning places to visit in yorkshire.

Or why not head to Leeds or Sheffield to explore the urban sights in two of Yorkshire’s most famous cities?

Please Pin for Future Travel to Yorkshire !

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Saturday 21st of May 2022

This looks like a divine road trip, Angela! I can see myself enjoying every moment.

Linda (LD Holland)

We always planned to do a long road trip when we get to England for a long visit; I now have some great spots to add for the Yorkshire part of our route. And a better idea of how much time we might need! Castles would certainly be the draw. But great to know that there are some great national parks we need to have on the plan. I am always fascinated by abbey ruins and how much is left standing.

Friday 20th of May 2022

I would absolutely love this one week Yorkshire road trip! So many beautiful and historic sites to see along the way.

WhereAngieWanders

I am glad you enjoyed reading this post. You are right, there are some really special places to visit in Yorkshire. I wonder if you had a favourite from the itinerary that you would particularly like to see?

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York to London...suggested stops along the way? - England Forum

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We're debating between just driving straight and enjoying the scenery as we go then spending the afternoon around London or planning a few stops along the way and getting in to London later on.

Any thoughts about compelling stops between York and London for folks with interests in photography, history, literature and theatre? We very well may have a British heritage pass (still deciding what we want to see during our two weeks to see if it will make financial sense).

Thanks in advance,

If you use the main roads, there isn't much scenery to speak of.

There are plenty of interesting towns along the way.

But if you followed more the old route (the A1), there is a town called Stamford with lots of inns as it was a staging point for the London to York coaches. Nearby is the historic Burghley House.

http://www.burghley.co.uk/

Built by the Treasurer to Queen Elizabeth 1. He must have been rich! The hosue has been used for several films such as The Da Vinci Code....

Another interesting town is Melton Mowbray and nearby Belvoir Castle (pronounced beaver). Full of history and pork pies, and the home of Stilton cheese.

Would suggest you overnight somewhere, rather than rushing to London.

http://www.configtracker.co.uk/tadIndex.php

NEWARK - attractive river town. Has castle, notable for Antiques trade. Massive Sugar Beet processing Plant, Kelham Hall:

http://www.newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk/

STAMFORD - Gorgeous town of honey colourd stone. Home town of Daniel Lambert, used for the filming of Middlemarch, Burleigh House nearby:

http://www.stamford.co.uk/

RUTLAND WATER - large reservoir with some nature reserves, picturesque for walking and cycling - a nice place to stretch your legs on a long car journey:

http://www.rutnet.co.uk/rutlandwater

HUNTINGDON - birthplace of Oliver Cromwell, links with Samuel Pepys.

http://www.huntingdon-town.info/

CAMBRIDGE - (a bit of a detour but...) - Famous University town, take a punt on the river, and admire Kings College Chapel from 'The Backs'. Visit the American Cemetary at Madingley:

http://www.visitcambridge.org/

http://www.madingleyamericancemetery.info/

BIGGLESWADE - visit Old Warden Park with the Shuttleworth Collection of historic Aircraft:

http://www.shuttleworth.org/

WELWYN GARDEN CITY - worth taking a look at if you want to see what an interwar, 'designer' planned town in the UK looks like!:

http://www.welwyngarden-heritage.org/

OK, that's about all I can suggest - all of these places (apart from Cambridge) are on or very near to the A1 which is the main road going from York towards London .

Sorry EssexWanderer, I can't agree with you about Tadcaster. I know it extremely well and would suggest there are many other places that would be more interesting to visit when time is short.

Lincoln is easily visited en route and has a spectacular cathedral and castle on top of a steep hill towering over the Lincolnshire flatlands

On the other side of the A1, a detour through Sherwodd Forest is easy

Lots of lovely countryside in Leicestershire and Northants to the west of the A1, the stone from which Stamford is built is the same outcrop as you get in the cotswolds and there's no shortage of pretty stone villages much closer to the route

Wow. Thanks for all the suggestions so far.

Stamford sounds great with Burghley House. Sherwood forest might be a fun way to go. Lincoln looks beautiful.

That should definitely keep us busy :)

Thanks again!

Just because Tadcaster is more industrial, it does not make it less interesting, PLUS there are great photogenic buildings there, including the breweries.

Stamford is a beautiful town to visit,if you wanted to stay overnight, I live in a village about 10 miles south with direct access from the A1,called Stilton..the cheese was originally sold at the old coaching inn called the Bell which still operates as a hotel today....great rooms and food.

Also in the village is the Stilton Cheese Inn which has great rooms, and does a pretty mean full breakfast..for £55...double room and breakfast,I have friends who come and stay here when they come to visit and they always speak highly of it...the restaurant is excellent...the owner/ chef is Portugese and his reputation for his fish dishes is second to none....just a thought if you were looking for somewhere to eat,

I would also recommend Stamford. It is a beautiful town full of medieval and Georgian stone buildings. I don't know if it is true but heard that it has the most listed buildings in the country, most of the town is a conservation area.

Anyway, thought of another couple of historical/literary possibilities

First up is Woolsthorpe Manor, which is about half a mile off the A1 at Colsterworth between Grantham and Stamford. It was the family home of Isaac Newton

Next, much further down towards London , there's Ayot St Lawrence, a tiny village tucked away in gorgeous green wooded rolling country just west of Welwyn - it's where George Bernard Shaw lived for much of his life. His house is also open to the public as a museum

Then there's Hatfield House, in Hatfield, not far from there, a manificent Jacobean mansion. Might go well as a double act with Burghley, this one, as they were both houses of the very rich/powerful/influential Cecil family (William Cecil was chief minister to Queen Elizabeth I)

For Sherwood Forest, leave the A1 at Apleyhead just east of Worksop and follow the A614 into the trees (you can't miss it). In a couple of miles you reach Clumber Park, a lovely wooded estate, once the seat of the Dukes of Newcastle. You can drive through the park, head for the village of Budby and thence Edwinstowe where you can visit the legendary Major Oak. There are lots of other country estate/ducal seats around here as well, Rufford Abbey is also visitable, not sure about Thoresby Hall. Oddly (because it doesn't feel industrial), the area is also pockmarked with coal mining, in fact two of the very last deep mines in operation are in the forest. I mention it mainly because of the literary interest, since it's in the Nottinghamshire mining communities that DH Lawrence grew up and set most of his novels

I'm not sure what the British Heritage pass covers but lots of the places I have checked (including Clumber, Woolsthorpe, Shaw's Corner etc) are run by the National Trust ( http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk ), a superb independent charitable organisation

>>I don't know if it is true but heard that it has the most listed buildings in the country<<

Not true, doesn't stop it being lovely though. My local town (Bury St Edmunds) has more, for one

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21 Incredible Things To See in York, England

Updated: Apr 22, 2022

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission from the discount codes used or when a link/ad is clicked. All purchases made will come at no extra cost to you, and I only include products and services that I have personally used and would recommend.

If you're a bit of a historic geek like me, no trip to England is complete without making a stop in York. It's considered a cathedral city, and sits at the midway point between London and Edinburgh, in North Yorkshire. The city is famous for not only its cathedral and historic streets, but also its Roman walls, which have stood protecting York for centuries. With York being one of the oldest cities in the UK, you can just imagine how incredible it is to walk around its streets. Plus, if you're on the hunt for romantic getaways near York with hot tub then you're in luck too. You certainly won't run out of things to see in York (or around it), that's for sure!

York was founded by the Romans in the year 71 AD, and was later controlled by both the Anglo Saxons as well as Danish Vikings. By the middle ages, York had grown into an important trading centre for wool, and it was also used as an important stronghold for Edward I during his war against Scotland. York is a fascinating city to stroll around, and well worth spending at least a couple of days in so you can explore all of its narrow streets and historic sites. Most of the top attractions in York are easily accessible by foot too, and there are plenty of things to do in York with the family as well. It's difficult to write about York without wanting to include every single interesting spot in the post, so I've focused on the historic aspects of the city instead. Here are my recommendations for the best things to see in York if you love history:

1. York Minster

Without a doubt, one of the main things to see in York is its cathedral. York Minster was built on the site of an important Roman basilica, and was completed in the 15th century, but took over 250 years to build. There was actually an earlier church built on this site in the 7th century in order to baptize Edwin, King of Northumbria. The minster is very impressive to look at from the outside, being one of the tallest in northern Europe, but it's equally as impressive inside too, with a lot of beautiful stained glass windows dating from the medieval period. It costs £12 to enter the minster , or you can pay £17 which will also give you access to the tower (definitely do this if you're able to). The minster is one of the best historic sites in York to visit, whether you go inside or not.

2. St William's College

Sitting just behind York Minster is this beautiful medieval building known as St William's College . It was originally built in the 15th century in order to provide accommodation for the priests of the minster. It's a great example of a timber-framed medieval building, and is a charming hidden gem in York to pass by. If you're coming here after visiting the minster, I would recommend walking through Dean's Park which sits at the back of the minster and is pleasant to walk through on a sunny day.

3. The Treasurer's House

Almost directly beside St William's College, sitting in the shadows of the minster, is the Treasurer's House . This National Trust site is one of the more unusual places to visit in York, since it looks more like a country mansion than a townhouse. There are remains of the original house dotted around the gardens that date back to the 11th century, but the majority of the house you see today is from the 17th century, and underwent restorations in the 19th century. The house was built directly over an ancient Roman road, and during renovations they uncovered a number of Roman pillars, which they repurposed. This house is also one of many in York that are haunted - so keep your eyes peeled!

4. York Mansion House

Another interesting building to see in York is the York Mansion House , which is located in the same area as Betty's Tea Room . Since 1732, it has been the home of the Lord Mayor of York, and it also holds one of the largest civic collections of silverware in England. If you're interested in taking a look inside, tickets cost £6.50 , but if you're short on time you can always just take a photo of it from the outside like I did! While it may not be one of the most exciting things to see in York, you'll no doubt pass by it as you make your way to the city's main attractions.

5. St Mary's Abbey

One of my favourite things to see in York is St Mary's Abbey . This ruined Benedictine abbey sits within the grounds of the York Museum Gardens , next to The Yorkshire Museum . and dates back to 1088. It was once one of the most powerful monasteries of its kind in England, and was started by William the Conqueror to help reinforce his hold on the north. Like many monasteries and religious buildings in England, it was destroyed on the orders of King Henry VIII as he sought to end the uprisings that came as a result of his break from Rome. The museum gardens and the abbey are two beautiful free attractions in York to add to your itinerary, and they are only a short walk from the minster too.

6. Jacob's Well

Jacob's Well is an often overlooked attraction in York which I only came across by chance as I was making my way to one of the city's main gates. This building can be dated to the 15th century, and would have been used as a house for the priest of the nearby prior. By the 1850's the building was being used as an inn, which is when the name Jacob's Well began to be used. Although you can't go inside of the building, if you're in the Micklegate area of York it's worth taking a look at.

7. Micklegate Bar

Micklegate Bar is the name given to the most important of York's four main entrance gates, and translates to great street . This entrance gate was once the focus of main events, and has had at least six monarchs pass through it. In fact, up until the 18th century, you would often see the heads of rebels and traitors displayed above the gate, such as Sir Henry Percy and Richard, Duke of York. It's definitely a must-see in York, and once you're done here you can climb up to the top of the city walls and make your way back into the city centre.

8. York's city walls

There are plenty of historic attractions in York to choose from, but something you simply can't miss are the city walls . As you've probably guessed, York is one of England's walled cities, and since the time of the Romans it's been defended by walls in one form or another. There are more miles of city walls here than in any other walled city in England, and you can walk all the way around them too! York's city walls are a major tourist attraction, and are completely free to walk along, though you can join one of the many walking tours in York that will teach you more about the history of them. They're one of the best things to see in York, so make sure you walk along at least a small part of them and take in the city views!

9. The Grand, York

Just a short walk from the train station, as you make your way towards York Minster, is a gorgeous Edwardian building dating to 1906. Today, it's home to the only 5 star luxury hotel in York - The Grand, York . The building was originally used as the headquarters for the North Eastern Railway Company, which at the time was one of the wealthiest businesses in the country. The Grand is one of the most photographed hotels in York, and I would say that the best view of it comes as you walk along the city walls that sit opposite it. If you're not staying here, you can always pop in to use the spa or grab something to eat at their restaurant, The Rise . You can read more about my stay here further down this post.

10. Merchant Adventurers' Hall

One of the most impressive buildings in York to visit is the Merchant Adventurers' Hall . Most of the guildhall was built over 660 years ago in 1357, and it's one of the finest examples of a medieval guildhall in the world. The hall is still in use today by its 160 members, and is open to the public if you fancy taking a walk around this incredible piece of history. It's practically been unaltered since the medieval period, making it one of the more unique places to see in York.

11. Fairfax House

If you're a fan of 18th century architecture, you'll want to stop by Fairfax House . This impressive townhouse offers a glimpse into what life would have been like in the very centre of York during the Georgian period. Although it was closed when I walked past it, it's a very popular place to visit in York outside of the usual tourist attractions.

12. Clifford's Tower

Does anyone else have really bad luck when it comes to scaffolding around attractions you want to see? This happened to me in St Petersburg quite a bit, but now I just see the humour in it. The structure sitting behind the scaffolding in this photo is Clifford's Tower , one of the key things to see in York. The tower is all that remains of York Castle, which was built by William the Conqueror 1068 in the form of a motte and bailey castle. The castle has a tumultuous history behind it, including being burned to the ground twice, but it was eventually rebuilt in the 13th century. Climbing to the top of the tower and taking in the view of the city is one of the best things to do in York, so maybe you'll have better luck than me when you visit!

13. York Castle Museum

Facing Clifford's Tower is the York Castle Museum , which stands where part of the larger complex of York Castle would have been. The building itself was originally used as part of a prison, and today stands as one of the most popular museums in York. If you're wondering what to do in York with the family, there are plenty of interesting exhibitions and events on at this museum which are worth looking into.

14. All Saints' Church

As you make your way through the streets of York, you'll realize that there are a lot of historic churches dotted around the city. Due to York Minster's popularity, a lot of these churches are often skipped over by visitors, which is a shame because many of them are very impressive in their own right. All Saints' Church , for example, has a history dating back to the 14th century and sits in the heart of York's historic centre. If its doors are open, it would be worth your time to take a quick peek inside!

15. The Three Tuns

Opposite All Saints' Church is a popular little historic pub called The Three Tuns . The pub originally opened in 1782 and is popular with both locals and tourists who are passing by. It's a very traditional pub and retains much of its original features, so don't expect anything fancy if you plan on visiting. Still, it's a lovely historic building to take a photo of from the outside!

16. The Golden Fleece & Sir Thomas Herbert's House

Fancy visiting the most haunted pub in York, and one of the most haunted pubs in the UK? The Golden Fleece dates back to the 16th century, with a pub on the ground floor and four guest bedrooms upstairs. It claims to be haunted by at least 14 spirits (including a Canadian airman from WWII) and has been featured in the TV show Most Haunted as well. The pub sits next to Sir Thomas Herbert's House , which dates to around the 16th century and is one of the most recognizable Tudor houses in York. Charles I is said to have dined here with Thomas Herbert on more than one occasion too!

17. Fossgate

York is full of historic streets to explore, such as Fossgate , which was first mentioned in the 1130's. This medieval street is said to follow one of the original Roman roads leading out of the city, and was an important industrial and commercial street during the Viking occupation of York. Fossgate is only a short walk from the famous JORVIK Viking Centre too, which is an absolute must-see in York if you haven't been already.

18. Petergate

One street in York that you simply need to walk along is Petergate . The street is mostly lined with quaint shops and restaurants, and leads from one main city gate to another. It would have been a major road through the city for the Romans as well as during the medieval period, and you can still see a number of medieval buildings popping out from between the Georgian ones. For a great view of the minster, head to Low Petergate - a very popular photo spot in York. Petergate is one of the best places to go in York so remember to add it to your itinerary!

19. Barley Hall

Barley Hall is a great example of the many hidden gems in York that you can visit. This reconstructed medieval townhouse was originally built in the mid-14th century by the monks of Nostell Priory. It was purchased by the York Archaeological Trust in 1987, and after a major restoration project was opened as a museum. To find it, you'll need to pass through a very narrow alleyway until you come out into this small courtyard. Visiting Barley Hall is an ideal activity to do in York if it's raining!

20. Roman Bath

A very interesting thing to see in York, and one of the city's oldest attractions, is the Roman Bath . The bathhouse itself sits under a pub, and the remains of it weren't found until the 1930's during construction work. Judging by the tiles found in the bathhouse, archaeologists have determined that it would have been used by military personnel. There's a small fee to enter, but it's worth it.

21. The Shambles

Any Harry Potter fans out there? The Shambles is one of the oldest shopping streets in Europe, and was the inspiration for Diagon Alley , so it may look familiar to you even if you haven't been to York! Today the street is lined with all sorts of shops, including quite a few Harry Potter ones, but originally The Shambles would have been home to butchers, with each shop selling a different type of meat. If you only have a short time to visit the city, The Shambles is by far one of the best things to see in York and shouldn't be missed. As you can imagine, this street is very busy during the day, so if you want a photo without people in it you'll need to get up at sunrise, like I did!

Where To Stay In York

York is a truly magical city, especially if you're a fan of history and enjoy strolling around medieval streets. While you're in York, why not treat yourself? During this trip, we spent two nights at The Grand, York which is the city's only five star hotel, and is only a stones throw from York Minster and other main tourist attractions in York. The history of this hotel is an interesting one. The building that The Grand, York now occupies was built in 1906 and used as the headquarters of the North Eastern Railway Company. Inside the hotel you'll still be able to see many of its original features and architecture, from high ceilings to Belgian marble. If you choose the valet service at the hotel, your car will be taken care of and your bags brought right up to your room for you. It certainly makes for a very luxurious stay, right in the heart of York.

The Grand, York offers a variety of different rooms to choose from, including a choice of a more traditional decor in the original building or a modern design in the newly refurbished Roman House. For our stay, we chose to stay in the Roman House, in their Executive Twin Room which on average costs £269 per night or £289 including breakfast. You can also opt for The Gourmet Package which also includes dinner at a cost of £350 per night. The photos of the room don't do it justice - it was incredible. The bathroom had both a walk-in shower and a bathtub to choose from, and even included an overhead speaker so you could hear the TV nice and clear. There was a turn down service each night and a lavender pillow spray was left on our pillows which was a lovely added touch.

Bathrobes, slippers, tea, coffee, hot chocolate, biscuits, and even a hygiene kit complete with sanitizers and masks were all included with the room. There was also a mini fridge stocked with water and glasses, as well as a very unique mirror that pulled up from the desk. I'm not usually one to order room service, but I thought we might as well as give it a try after our drive into York, and we weren't left disappointed. The room service menu is different from the menu you'll find in the main restaurant, and there are a lot of great options on it - including desserts! Coming back to this hotel room was a joy after a long day of walking around the streets of York.

The main restaurant in the hotel is called The Rise , and it's open to the public as well. It's actually a very popular restaurant in York, so make sure you book ahead if you want to dine here, even if you're staying at the hotel. The open kitchen uses locally sourced products to freshly prepare its modern British cuisine. Our meal was incredible, and the dishes were beautifully presented as well. It was my first time trying a Scotch egg and it didn't disappoint! The Rise also has a cocktail menu which I would recommend trying something from.

This is also where breakfast is served, and you'll find a great selection of hot breakfast dishes as well as continental options on the menu. Everything is brought directly to your table and there are vegetarian and vegan options available as well. If you love breakfast as much as I do, I would go for one of the bigger dishes such as the Full Yorkshire Breakfast to help get you through the day. The breakfast service is very smoothly run and the staff are very attentive which promises for a very positive breakfast experience.

Not only does The Grand, York have a stunning room selection and a fantastic restaurant to boast about, but it's also home to a luxury spa as well as a very classy bar. The hotel's spa is located in the former vaults of the building, which makes for a very atmospheric experience. You can hop between the pool, spa whirlpool, Nordic dry sauna, and an aromatic steam room and finish your visit off in the relaxation lounge. Booking for the spa is essential as they are currently only allowing a specific number of people in at a time.

When you’re done here, you can make a stop at The 1906 Bar on your way back to your room for a cocktail (or something stronger). The bar has a great menu selection, and its intimate setting complete with classical music in the background will probably make you want to stay here for the rest of the day. You can still choose to visit the bar even if you’re not staying at the hotel.

The entire time we were at the hotel we felt like royalty. The staff were always on hand to help us, and acknowledged us every time we passed by. They even had umbrellas ready for us to take into the city when it was raining. At checkout time, you simply need to phone down to reception and let them know you’ll be leaving, and someone will come up to your room to take your bags down to the car for you. If you’ve used the valet parking at the hotel, your car will be waiting out front for you without you having to ask. You can’t fault the service here, and it really is the best hotel in York to stay at. Before you check out of The Grand, York make sure you take in the beautiful view of the Edwardian building from the city walls across the street!

>> Click here for the most up to date prices at The Grand, York <<

The next time you’re planning a trip to the north of England, if you haven’t been to York already (and even if you have), you definitely can’t leave it off of your itinerary. There are so many things to see in York that you won’t know where to start. There are numerous fantastic day trips from York to choose from as well if you happen to be staying for a few days, such as Castle Howard or even to the city of Burnley . And if you’re really feeling adventurous, you could take a drive to Manchester or Liverpool which are easily accessible by car. I’m sure you’ll be far too busy walking around the medieval streets of York to even contemplate going too far from the city!

I know I missed some places from my list of things to see in York, but I tried to focus on its unique historic buildings more than anything else. I’d love to hear some recommendations on things to do in York during my next trip though, so please leave a comment below! And don’t forget to follow my travels on Instagram too!

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From London to York: 4 Best Ways to Get There

Written by Bryan Dearsley Dec 29, 2021

Whether you're planning to spend the bulk of your UK vacation in London or are merely stopping in for a visit after arriving at one of its airports (Heathrow is the country's biggest — and busiest), it's good to know that pretty much all points in the United Kingdom can be easily accessed from here. And that includes getting from London to York.

Located at the top end of England and on the way to Scotland, the city of York is one of the most popular places to visit in the country after London. In fact, some seven million visitors descend upon the city each year, many of whom started their UK travel adventure in London, just over 200 miles to the south.

Despite this distance, it's certainly doable in a day, which is good news for those wanting to tackle York as a day trip from London . The big draw? For most, it's the remarkably well-preserved medieval old town, home to the famous Shambles. These old lanes and alleys remain largely unchanged since the 14th century and along with the old city walls, the beautiful York Minster , and the castle, they make for a pretty full York travel itinerary.

To help you get there, be sure to read through our list of the best ways to get from London to York, which includes details of travel by rail, bus, or car, as well as organized tours.

On This Page:

• From London to York by Train
• From London to York by Car
• From London to York by Bus
• From London to York by Steam Train

1. From London to York by Train

By far the fastest means of getting from Central London to York is by train . It's also the fastest means if you're traveling from other points of the compass, such as Edinburgh in Scotland to the north or Liverpool to the west.

Britain's rail network is extremely efficient (at least from a non-resident's point of view), and the rail route from London to York is no exception. With a journey time of under two hours to cover the 200-mile distance (the fastest trains do it in one hour and 45 minutes), it's certainly a pleasure just sitting back, relaxing, and letting the "train take the strain."

The route is handled by two companies, Grand Central and LNER , with regular departures all day long from London's Kings Cross station (which is itself easy to get to via Underground or bus). York Railway Station is also centrally located and is an easy walk to the city's top attractions .

However, despite the fact that more than 300 trains run each week, service on weekends and holidays can be reduced somewhat, so if at all possible, be sure to check schedules and book your rail tickets in advance.

In fact, the further out you book your rail journey, the greater the savings. These companies often run specials for travel during "off peak" times, while tourists can also make the most of savings through the purchase of the handy BritRail Pass .

For travel schedule details and pricing for rail travel between London and York, visit the National Rail website at www.nationalrail.co.uk .

2. From London to York by Car

Driving from London to York is certainly doable. However, it's not as fast or convenient as travel via train. It can take around four hours to complete a one-way journey, making it largely prohibitive as a method of transport for day-trippers.

Those wanting to extend their York exploration over a few days or a weekend, however, might find it works well for them. If you're renting a car , try to arrange a pickup to the north of Central London. This way, you'll not only avoid the city's near-constant rush hour, but you'll also enjoy the sometimes hefty charges levied for the dubious privilege of getting stuck in traffic.

One handy option is to arrange your rental car pickup at a location such as London Stansted Airport , only a 45-minute train journey out of London from Liverpool Street Station. You'll also save money, as well as the headache of having to navigate out of the city.

Alternatively, why not enjoy a visit to a popular tourist destination such as Cambridge , just an hour's train ride from Kings Cross Station. From which you can enjoy a pleasant three-hour drive through the English countryside. The city of Northampton is another option. Its location adjacent to the major M1 motorway will save you a little driving time, too.

Wherever you pick up your car, you'll find parking in York a treat. While you're limited to parking on the outskirts of the city (it's part of a scheme to reduce congestion downtown and make the city better for visitors and locals alike), this network of perimeter parking lots are connected to the heart of the city by regular bus services .

3. From London to York by Bus

Although by far the slowest means of getting from London to York , travel by bus is not without its benefits. In addition to having someone else handle the driving and traffic, there's the cost.

The roughly five-hour travel time for a bus ride can cost as little as around $16 if booked far enough in advance, or during quieter off-peak travel times (which can also shave an hour off the length of your journey). You can check for the best deals on the National Express website .

National Express buses from London to York depart regularly from the centrally located Victoria Coach Station. The company's York coach station is also centrally located and an easy stroll from the city's top attractions and things to do.

4. From London to York by Steam Train

Those who enjoy a little nostalgic travel, and who can time their travel to coincide with a somewhat limited travel schedule, may want to consider making the journey from London to York in epic style aboard a vintage steam train.

One of the most popular of these takes place around Christmas . Departing from Ealing Broadway just 15 minutes away from Central London, the exciting York Yuletide Express chugs along the mainline with a few stops along the way and includes a visit to the excellent National Railway Museum York.

A similar excursion, the London to York Christmas Market , is also worth considering. Both companies operate a variety of fun steam excursions throughout the year to York and other major tourist destinations in the UK.

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20 Epic Places To Visit On A British Road Trip

Us Brits are proud of our not-so-little island! From the beauty of the Cotswolds , the magnificence of Edinburgh to the quaint charm of Tenby in stunning Wales , there are loads of spots to explore. This is no more true when looking at places to visit on a British road trip.

Honestly, there are so many iconic and easily some of the places to visit on a British road trip that you’ll be spoilt for choice. That it can be hard to single out which ones you absolutely have to see.

This is exactly why I wanted to share some of the places to visit on a British road trip that you can visit on your journey across the country. 

Some are easy to get to, others a little more difficult but all make for the perfect place way to explore the uniqueness of our wonderful island.

Whatever the case, take a little gander at places to visit on a British road trip. Have the best time. 

London has to be included.. from its many delicious food markets , epic coffee spots , and gorgeous palaces to it’s well-kept secret spots , London has it all.

You’re gonna be spoilt for choice when it comes to London. Just make sure to spend a few days exploring the best areas of London as the different neighbourhoods are so different.

Oh yeah, and, I’d always suggest parking up your car or starting your road trip to London.

You don’t really need a car in the city (and it can be quite a burden). Stick to public transport, stroll and explore the city by foot. Then, afterwards, head out to explore the other best places to visit on a British road trip.

Read more: Best areas of London to explore

2.) Stonehenge

This world-famous site is a must-see whilst driving west from London and is easily one of the best places to visit on a British road trip.

Only 2 hours from the city centre, Stonehenge is a perfect place to learn about our long and rich history.

Weekends can get very busy, so consider heading to Stonehenge early in the morning or an hour before closing.

Nestled in the South West of England, Bath is one of Britain’s most picturesque cities to visit.

Take a day out of your road trip to explore its Roman baths, the natural springs and the Royal Crescent. Still, to this day, Bath is one of my favourite English cities and I hope you love it, too.

Just make sure to try some of those yummy Sally Lunn’s buns, too! 

Read more: Best things to do in Bath

4.) Brighton

One of Britain’s most iconic south coast places, Brighton is a brilliant city to explore; especially on a sunny day. It’s easily one of the places to visit on a British road trip if you’re exploring the south of England .

Only 2-hours from Central London, Brighton’s Royal Pavilion, its quaint lanes and its Victorian Pier make for a perfect day of exploring a unique English seaside city. Grab a deck chair and a “99” whilst enjoying a little British Sunshine! 

Read more: Best things to do in Brighton

5.) Windsor

Windsor is home to one of the most iconic Royal residences after Buckingham Palace! Windsor Castle is a must-see sight when exploring Britain.

Only 30 minutes from Heathrow Airport, it can even be a perfect place to explore on a long stopover between flights. 

You see, if you’re heading west from London, it’s likely that Windsor will be your first port of call as it’s only a little beyond Heathrow Airport. 

Read more: Things to know before visiting Windsor Castle

6.) The Cotswolds

The rolling hills, picturesque town and beautiful history make this area of outstanding natural beauty a perfect place to explore over a day or two.

Whilst visiting the Cotswolds , don’t forget to include these impressive places and perhaps even stay in a historic Royal home . It really is one of the best places to visit on a British road trip and is perfectly suited to exploring by car. 

Read more: Best things to do in the Cotswolds

7.) Edinburgh

The capital city of Scotland, Edinburgh , is one of my favourite cities to explore in Britain!

Spend a few days discovering the old town as well as its new town that’s totally different. Oh, and of course, try some haggis, too! 

Take some time to go for a jaunt along Princes Street and visit its world-famous castle that sits on an extinct volcano.

There’s so much to see and do whilst in the city.

Take a look at some of the best experiences to have in Edinburgh and its unique bars and restaurants to visit . They’re so much fun and you can really soak up the atmosphere of Edinburgh, here. 

Read more: Best things to do in Edinburgh

8.) Bristol  

Bristol has a thriving art scene, with one of its most (in)famous artists being Banksy, who recently created Dismaland close by.

Although this was a temporary exhibition, you can still see so many of Banksy’s famous works dotted around Bristol.

Explore its wonderful history and take in Bristol’s thriving art scene . It’s easily one of the places to visit on a British road trip.

Read more: Best things to do in Bristol

9.) Glasgow

There’s always a lot of competition around which is the ‘best’ Scottish city, especially between Glaswegians and Edinburghians (is that correct)?

Take a wander around its many beautiful sights whilst exploring the best places to visit on a British road trip. Also, this is a good gateway city to start your wider adventure into the Scottish Highland s, too. 

Read more: Best things to do in Glasgow

The ancient city of York is steeped in a rich history. Head to the Jorvik Viking Centre, York Castle and York Minster to see some of its most impressive sights.

We loved our time in York and there’s so much to ramble and wander around. You can even rent your own little boat and explore the city by the riverfront, too.

It really is one of the places to visit on a British road trip.

Read more: Best things to do in York

11.) Cambridge   

The college rivalry between Oxford and Cambridge is, well, unrivalled!

Take a wander around the beautiful grounds of the University (King’s College chapel is a must-see) whilst exploring the charm of Cambridge.

Don’t forget to try your hands at punting too. It’s pretty hard work but better if you can get someone else to do the punting. It’s one of the places to visit on a British road trip when exploring the East of England . 

Read more: Best things to do in Cambridge

12.) Liverpool

Liverpool is famed for its musical heritage and beautiful city centre.

Take a tour of some of the main sights but save some energy for the night – that’s when the city comes alive.

Enjoy the thousands of live music venues, bars and buskers that line the city’s streets. Plus, you can easily partner this up with a trip to Manchester, too.

Read more: Best things to do in Liverpool

13.) Newcastle

This northern city is one of Britain’s best-kept secrets to visit! Once an industrial powerhouse, Newcastle has been redeveloped into one of the country’s most fun cities to visit.

Take a wander through its bustling city streets and make notes to stop to see the Angel of the North. It’s easily one of the best places to visit on a British road trip and a perfect starting point to visit Northumberland and all its castles. 

Read more: Best things to do in Newcastle

14.) White Cliffs of Dover

Not too far from Brighton, the White Cliffs of Dover are a perfect place to explore the natural beauty of our island.

Take a wander across the many coastal paths that crisscross this area of outstanding natural beauty.

15.) Durham

Not too far from Newcastle , Durham is the perfect stop on your journey through the North of England .

Don’t forget to explore Durham Castle and Cathedral that’s so iconic and imposing in the city. 

16.) The Lake District

The Lake District is one of Britain’s most stunning areas to see. For me, the Lake District is easiest to get around by car. This makes it one of the places to visit on a British road trip that you can explore at your own pace and see all the different lakes.

Rolling hills and vast lakes have created a landscape that’ll leave you impressed and inspired to keep exploring.

Once you’ve visited the charming town of Windermere, head into the hills and enjoy the beauty of this region.

Read more: Best things to do in the Lake District

This small town in East Sussex is the perfect place for a relaxing stop, especially after a long drive.

18.) St. Ives

No visit to Cornwall would be complete without a visit to St. Ives.

This beautiful Cornish gem is a great place to relax, surf or even eat your weight in delicious Cornish Pasties. Yum.

Honestly, the whole coast of Cornwall is gorgeous and easily one of the places to visit on a British road trip if you love natural beauty and little fishing villages. 

Read more: Best things to do in Cornwall

19.) Scilly Isles

Although you won’t be able to drive here, you can jump on a ferry direct from Cornwall . 

Spend a day or two exploring one of the most unique set of islands in England .

Bathed in its own micro-climate, the Scilly Isles are a true little paradise.

Read more: 1-week itinerary for the Isles of Scilly

This pretty little fishing town is one of the quaintest in all of Wales .

Tenby is a historic fishing village that’s relatively easy to get to by car, too. This all makes it one of the best places to visit on a British road trip.

Explore its windy streets and colourful houses and grab yourself some local fish and chips.

It’s a true sea-side favourite.

14 Very Best Things To Do In Wales

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Only 40 LNER intercity rail services to run on Saturday as train drivers strike

Almost three in four services between London, Edinburgh and York will be cut in Aslef members’ stoppage

A train drivers’ strike will lead to almost three in four services being cut on Saturday on LNER, which operates intercity trains between London, York and Edinburgh .

Members of the Aslef union will take industrial action for 24 hours on 20 April – and also ban overtime during the weekend – in a dispute over terms and conditions, separate to the wider pay row that has led to strikes at all national rail operators across England.

LNER expects to run about 40 services on the east coast mainline on Saturday, just over a quarter of its normal schedule.

Mick Whelan, the general secretary of Aslef, said: “Train drivers are fed up with the bad faith shown by this company … and we are not prepared to put up with being bullied and pushed about by a company that thinks it can break agreements whenever it feels like it.”

While the drivers’ action is not directly related to the wider rail pay disputes, which led to the biggest series of strikes in a generation, more disruption could come after the RMT union rejected a pay rise from Network Rail . The state-owned company, which runs the track and infrastructure, has offered a 3.5% pay rise to its employees, including signallers and maintenance workers.

The RMT said it had rejected the offer, maintaining that it fell below the standard benchmark for inflation used in rail pay negotiations – the November retail prices index figure – which was 5.3%.

The union’s general secretary, Mick Lynch, said: “Network Rail is once again making an offer that represents a cut in living standards as pay is not keeping up with the rising costs of rent, mortgages, energy, food and other essentials. As a result, RMT is calling for urgent fresh negotiations and a much-improved offer for this year.”

A Network Rail spokesperson said it had put forward a 3.5% unconditional offer with other benefits that was “fair and represents a significant increase given current and forecast rates of inflation … We expect negotiations to continue.”

It is understood that even though Network Rail has more control of its budget than train operating companies – which have not been able to offer drivers more money – the organisation is still under pressure to keep pay rises down in line with the wider public sector.

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The RMT has, however, highlighted the 5.5% award given to MPs last month. The union’s members at Network Rail settled their strike action last year for a two-year deal worth 9%, below inflation.

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More on this story

Aslef’s final strike day disrupts rail services in south and east England

Aslef says more train strikes likely as drivers’ pay row continues

Rail passengers face rolling strikes but London Underground action called off

Train drivers at Northern and LNER to strike in March, Aslef union announces

Weekend rail strikes: travel disrupted across Great Britain

Train drivers will keep striking to ‘raise profile’ of pay dispute, says Aslef boss

Weekend rail strikes and overtime ban disrupt UK travel

Rail strikes: trains in south-east England halted as rolling stoppages begin

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Watch CBS News

Solar eclipse maps show 2024 totality path, peak times and how much of the eclipse people could see across the U.S.

By Aliza Chasan

Updated on: April 9, 2024 / 5:00 AM EDT / CBS News

A total solar eclipse  crossed North America Monday with parts of 15 U.S. states within the path of totality. Maps show  where and when astronomy fans could see the big event  as skies darkened in the middle of the day Monday, April 8.

The total eclipse first appeared along Mexico's Pacific Coast at around 11:07 a.m. PDT, then traveled across a swath of the U.S., from Texas to Maine, and into Canada.

About 31.6 million people live in the path of totality , the area where the moon fully blocked out the sun , according to NASA. The path ranged between 108 and 122 miles wide. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path of totality.

Solar eclipse path of totality map for 2024

The total solar eclipse started over the Pacific Ocean, and the first location in continental North America that experienced totality was Mexico's Pacific Coast, around 11:07 a.m. PDT, according to NASA. From there, the path continued into Texas, crossing more than a dozen states before the eclipse enters Canada in southern Ontario. The eclipse exited continental North America at around 5:16 p.m. NDT from Newfoundland, Canada.

The path of totality included portions of the following states:

• Pennsylvania
• New Hampshire

Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan also experienced the total solar eclipse.

Several major cities across the U.S. were included in the eclipse's path of totality, while many others saw a partial eclipse. These were some of the best major cities for eclipse viewing — though the weather was a factor :

• San Antonio, Texas (partially under the path)
• Austin, Texas
• Waco, Texas
• Dallas, Texas
• Little Rock, Arkansas
• Indianapolis, Indiana
• Dayton, Ohio
• Cleveland, Ohio
• Buffalo, New York
• Rochester, New York
• Syracuse, New York
• Burlington, Vermont

Map of when the solar eclipse reached totality across its path

The eclipse began in the U.S. as a partial eclipse beginning at 12:06 p.m. CDT near Eagle Pass, Texas, before progressing to totality by about 1:27 p.m. CDT and then moving along its path to the northeast over the following few hours.

NASA shared times for several cities in the path of totality across the U.S. People could have also  checked their ZIP code on NASA's map  to see when the eclipse was to reach them if they were on, or near, the path of totality — or if they saw a partial eclipse instead.

How much of the eclipse did people see if they live outside the totality path?

While the April 8 eclipse covered a wide swath of the U.S., outside the path of totality observers may have spotted a partial eclipse, where the moon covers some, but not all, of the sun, according to NASA. The closer they were to the path of totality, the larger the portion of the sun that was hidden.

NASA allowed viewers to input a ZIP code and see how much of the sun was to be covered in their locations.

Could there be cloud cover be during the solar eclipse?

Some areas along the path of totality had a higher likelihood of cloud cover that could interfere with viewing the eclipse. Here is a map showing the historical trends in cloud cover this time of year. 

You could have checked the latest forecast for your location with our partners at The Weather Channel .

Where did the solar eclipse reach totality for the longest?

Eclipse viewers near Torreón, Mexico, got to experience totality for the longest. Totality there lasted 4 minutes, 28 seconds, according to NASA. 

Most places along the centerline of the path of totality saw a totality duration of between 3.5 and 4 minutes, according to NASA. Some places in the U.S. came close to the maximum; Kerrville, Texas, had a totality duration of 4 minutes, 24 seconds.

What is the path of totality for the 2044 solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse that will be visible from the contiguous U.S. will be on Aug. 23, 2044.

Astronomy fans in the U.S. will have far fewer opportunities to see the 2044 eclipse they had on April 8. NASA has not yet made maps available for the 2044 eclipse but, according to The Planetary Society , the path of totality will only touch three states.

The 2024 eclipse will start in Greenland, pass over Canada and end as the sun sets in Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota, according to the Planetary Society.

Aliza Chasan is a digital producer at 60 Minutes and CBSNews.com. She has previously written for outlets including PIX11 News, The New York Daily News, Inside Edition and DNAinfo. Aliza covers trending news, often focusing on crime and politics.

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John Stamos Smiles in the L.A. Sun, Plus Rihanna, Shaquille O'Neal, Glen Powell and More

From Hollywood to New York and everywhere in between, see what your favorite stars are up to

Alexandra Schonfeld is a features writer at PEOPLE. She has been working at PEOPLE since April 2022. Her work previously appeared in Newsweek .

Stars have been everywhere this week, from Rihanna at a Fenty x Puma party in London to Shaquille O'Neal hanging out down in Atlanta. John Stamos smiles as he steps out under the L.A. sun, and Glen Powell suits up for an N.Y.C. screening of his movie Hit Man .

Here, the best photos of celebs out and about this week. Come back tomorrow for more of the latest A-list outings!

Endless Charm

PG/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images

John Stamos flashes his signature smile for cameras on April 17 in L.A.

Bejeweled Babe

David Fisher/Shutterstock

Wearing a red lip to match her nail color, Rihanna shows off the bling on her hands at a Puma x Fenty party in London on April 17.

Smiles Down South

Paras Griffin/Getty Images

Shaquille O'Neal hangs out at Nana's Chicken & Waffles in McDonough, Georgia for Shaq Attack Day on April 17.

Grinning Ear to Ear

Jason Mendez/Getty Images

Glen Powell looks glad to be at a BAFTA screening of Hit Man in N.Y.C. on April 17.

In the Kitchen

Alastair Grant-WPA Pool/Getty Images

Prince William helps cook up some bolognese sauce with chef Mario Confait during a royal a visit to Surplus to Supper, a surplus food redistribution charity in the English county of Surrey, on April 18.

42 / BACKGRID

Justin Bieber grabs a bite at hotspot restaurant Sushi Park in West Hollywood on April 17.

Bright & Bold

Raymond Hall/GC Images

Orlando Bloom wears a sunny yellow cardigan while taking his dog for a walk around N.Y.C.'s SoHo neighborhood on April 17.

Prince Williams/WireImage

Usher takes the mic to chat on the Posted On The Corner radio show in Atlanta on April 17.

Dinner Time

The Hollywood Curtain/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images

Courteney Cox heads home after dining out at Giorgio Baldi restaurant in Santa Monica on April 17.

Kristin Callahan/Shutterstock 

Jason Biggs and Jenny Mollen step out with a furry friend at N.Y.C. Second Chance Rescue's 4th annual Rescue Ball on April 17.

Married with Moves

Larry Marano/Shutterstock

Derek Hough and Hayley Erbert perform a passionate couples dance during the Symphony of Dance tour at Hard Rock Live in Hollywood, Florida on April 17.

Vivien Killilea/Getty Images

Candace Cameron Bure and Kelsey Grammer step out for a screening of Unsung Hero on April 17 in L.A.

With her computer by her side, Karlie Kloss looks ready for business in a chic blouse while out and about in Downtown Manhattan on April 17.

Magical Night Out

Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images

Kandi Burruss rocks a glimmering green ensemble to see opening night of The Wiz with her husband Todd Tucker on April 17 in N.Y.C.

Late Night Ready

RB/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images

Rob McElhenney sports a pair of sunglasses and a fashionable houndstooth shirt outside of Jimmy Kimmel Live! on April 17 in L.A.

Guests Goofing Off

Chris Millard/Warner Bros.

Jennifer Hudson laughs on as Val and Maks Chmerkovskiy lift up Rita Moreno on the set of her daytime talk series The Jennifer Hudson Show on April 18.

Deep in Character

Gotham/GC Images

Splayed out on the sidewalk next to discarded slices of Pizza, Michelle Williams films what appears to be a dramatic scene from her upcoming project Dying for Sex in Brooklyn on April 17.

Staying Cool

Team U.S.A. Olympic gymnast Suni Lee stays hydrated with a Gatorade water in hand while visiting N.Y.C. on April 16.

Neighborhood Stroll

JOCE/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images

Sasha Farber shows some skin while walking his dogs around Los Angeles on April 17.

Girls Down Under

Don Arnold/WireImage

Anna Lahey and Rita Ora hang out in chic black attire at The Ace Hotel in Sydney, Australia on April 18.

Colorful Cast

John Nacion/Variety via Getty Images

The Wiz cast members Deborah Cox, Wayne Brady, Phillip Johnson Richardson, Nichelle Lewis, Avery Wilson, Kyle Ramar Freeman and Melody A. Betts bask under the spotlight on opening night at the Marquis Theatre in N.Y.C. on April 17.

Growing Together

David Benthal/BFA.com

Lil Rel Howery and Jurnee Smollett pose together at a special screening of We Grown Now hosted by Sony Pictures Classics and The Cinema Society in N.Y.C. on April 17.

Color Blocking

Courtesy of New You Media 

Ashley Benson stands out in a bright red suit beside Derek Warburton at the New You Beauty Awards in Miami Beach on April 13.

Tim P. Whitby/Getty

Jon Bon Jovi flashes a peace sign and a happy grin at the U.K. premiere of Thank You and Goodnight: The Bon Jovi Story on April 17 in London.

Daniele Venturelli/Getty

Zoe Saldaña and Marco Perego pose together at the photocall as the 60th annual Venice Biennale kicks off in Venice on April 17.

Side by Side

Lester Cohen for BMI

David Foster and Katharine McPhee hold hands from the stage at the BMI/NAB dinner held at the Encore Las Vegas on April 16.

Theater Fan

Dianna Agron catches a performance of Cabaret at the KitKat Club in New York City on April 16.

Derek Reed/Shutterstock

Hugh Grant and Jerry Seinfeld take their seats during a fun portrait session while promoting their new film, Unfrosted , in New York City on April 16.

Sweet Tooth

Christian Slater , who also appears in the film, poses with several unfrosted pastries for his portrait on April 16.

Lily Gladstone is spotted following an appearance on Good Morning America in New York City on April 17.

On the Line

TheImageDirect.com

Ines de Ramon keeps it casual as she steps out in L.A. in jeans and a tank on April 16.

Stylish Pair

Salma Hayek and François-Henri Pinault  are dressed to the nines in Venice as the 60th annual Venice Biennale begins on April 17.

Top of the Morning

Anna Sawai makes an appearance on Good Morning America in New York City on April 17.

Personal Style

Kyle Richards steps out in a bright green sweatshirt paired with a coral Birkin bag in L.A. on April 16.

Staying Bright

And speaking of bright colors, Candace Bushnell opts for an eye-catching yellow blazer and pink bag for an outing on April 17 in New York City.

Sara Jaye Weiss

Machine Gun Kelly snacks on Jimmy John's BBQ chips while in the studio in Nashville on April 17.

Katie Holmes enjoys N.Y.C.'s warmer weather in a tank top while walking around the city on April 16.

Tennis Court Couture

Eric Charbonneau/Getty Images

With a tennis ball aptly sewn onto her neon green dress, Zendaya continues her streak of sporty style at an afterparty following the L.A. premiere of Challengers on April 16.

Global Sensation

Ken McKay/ITV/Shutterstock 

Jon Bon Jovi smiles during his appearance on U.K. TV show This Morning in London on April 17.

All Dressed Up

Zoë Kravitz spends her night out seeing Cabaret at the KitKat Club in N.Y.C. on April 16.

Philanthropy & Fun

Andrew H. Walker/Shutterstock

One of the night's honorees, Megan Thee Stallion rocks a red lip and black attire at the Planned Parenthood of Greater New York's Spring Into Action Gala in N.Y.C. on April 16.

Burnin' Up Around the World

Mauricio Santana/Getty Images

Jonas Brothers bandmates Nick , Joe and Kevin Jonas continue their concert tour in São Paulo, Brazil on April 16.

Late Night on Leash

BauerGriffin/INSTARimages

Orlando Bloom brings a fluffy friend with him into The Late Show With Stephen Colbert in N.Y.C. on April 16.

Getting Fresh Air

Fernando Ramales / BACKGRID

Jennifer Lopez looks cozy in a bright blue sweatsuit as she steps into the N.Y.C. morning on April 17.

Wearing the Season

Christopher Peterson / SplashNews

Nicky Hilton Rothschild embraces spring in Oscar de la Renta's white lily of the valley dress with a matching green Hermes Kelly bag in New York City on April 16.

Chicly Business

Media-Mode / SplashNews

Rita Ora wears a chic all-black ensemble to a meeting in Sydney, Australia on April 17.

Exclusive Party

Stefanie Keenan/Getty Images

John Mayer looks dapper while hosting a special evening with Audemars Piguet on April 16 in Los Angeles' Bel Air neighborhood.

Harmonizing on Air

Sheryl Crow sings a duet with her host during her April 17 appearance on The Jennifer Hudson Show.

Saweet Style

Kyle Goldberg/BFA.com

Saweetie pairs statement glasses with a tube top at the Paper Playground event in Bermuda Dunes, California presented by True Religion and e11even on April 11.

Talk Show Ready

Janet Mayer / SplashNews

George Takei suits up to visit The Late Show with Stephen Colbert at N.Y.C.'s Ed Sullivan Theater on April 16.

For a Good Cause

Johns PKI / SplashNews

AnnaSophia Robb , Busy Philipps , Beanie Feldstein and another guest share a moment at the Spring Into Action gala hosted by Planned Parenthood of Greater New York at Cipriani South Street South in Manhattan on April 16.

Decades to Celebrate

Elwood Walker/Universal Studios Hollywood

Quinta Brunson steps out under the L.A. sun to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the the Studio Tour at Universal Studios Hollywood on April 15.

Ashley Graham makes a glamorous statement in lacy black to see Cabaret at New York City's KitKat Club on April 16.

Daytime TV Darling

DeeCee Carter/MediaPunch/Shutterstock 

Jennifer Hudson greets the crowd during the We Are Broadcasters session at the National Association of Broadcasters show in Las Vegas on April 16.

Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic

Nick Offerman and Conan O'Brien chat about the latter's upcoming project Conan O'Brien Must Go during a photocall for the L.A. premiere on April 16.

Evening Wear

Dave Benett/Getty Images

Irina Shayk , Jonathan Bailey , Bel Powley and Awkwafina dress up for the Rokh H&M collaboration event in London on April 16.

With the Host

Sabrina Elba looks glamorous in a denim getup for her appearance on Jennifer Hudson 's daytime talk show on April 17.

Flipping Out

Brendon Thorne/Getty Images

G Flip brings big energy while performing at Pepsi's Pulse Collection fashion showcase in Sydney, Australia on April 17.

Comedy for Your Consideration

Rodin Eckenroth/Getty Images

Sarah Chalke takes the stage to chat during Adult Swim's Rick and Morty FYC Event at Saban Media Center in North Hollywood on April 16.

Power Couple

Jonathan Brady/PA Images via Getty

Idris and Sabrina Elba are a stunning pair at the world premiere of Knuckles , held at the Odeon Luxe Leicester Square in London on April 16.

Jerry Seinfeld flashes a smile and waves while out and about in New York City in a crisp white shirt and grey blazer on April 16.

Hometown Hero

Luis Yllanes / SplashNews

Jennifer Lopez throws on a pair of oversized sunglasses for a stroll around New York City on April 16.

Birthday Date

Anya Taylor-Joy and Malcolm McRae walk arm-in-arm on the actress' 28th birthday on April 16 in New York City.

To the Air Waves

Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty

Michael Douglas takes his seat for an appearance at SiriusXM Studios on April 16 in New York City.

ZZHollywood To You/Star Max/GC Images

Riley Keough looks chic in a long-sleeved dress and a pair of shades for an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live! on April 15 in L.A.

Staying Hydrated

Alix Earle grabs a can of Poppi while celebrating the end of Coachella weekend one at the TAO Desert Nights party over the weekend.

MICHAEL TRAN/AFP via Getty

Nelly Furtado stuns in a red off-the-shoulder gown at the premiere of The Greatest Hits at El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood on April 15.

In Character

Chloë Sevigny and Javier Bardem are in character on the set of Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story  on April 15 in L.A.

Off the Court

Lucio Andreozzi Foto/INSTARimages

Cameron Brink is all glammed up courtesy of Estée Lauder at the WNBA Draft in New York City on April 15.

All-Star Group

Marion Curtis / StarPix for Lionsgate

Cary Elwes, Henry Zaga, Babs Olusanmokun, Eiza González , Henry Golding , Hero Fiennes Tiffin and Henry Cavill pose together at the premiere of The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare hosted in partnership with Johnnie Walker Blue Label on April 15 in New York City.

Weekend Ready

Mark Von Holden/Shutterstock

Charli XCX sports a graphic T-shirt and micro-mini shorts as she makes an appearance at the White Claw Shore Club ahead of Coachella on April 11.

All Together Now

Bruno Tonioli, Alesha Dixon, Amanda Holden and Simon Cowell attend the photocall for Britain's Got Talent on April 16 in London.

Stage Stars

Bruce Glikas/WireImage

Vanessa Williams and Kristin Chenoweth celebrate The Roundabout Theatre Company's "Kristin: An Evening with Friends for Todd" benefit on April 15 at The Stephen Sondheim Theatre in New York City.

Movie Night

Danielle Del Valle/Getty

Candace Cameron Bure attends a screening of Unsung Hero on April 15 at The Fisher Center for the Performing Arts in Nashville, Tennessee.

New York Outing

Cindy Ord/Getty

Josh Segarra, Ally Maki , David West Read, Gabrielle Dennis and Chris O'Dowd attend a photo call for The Big Door Prize at The Plaza Hotel in New York City on April 16.

Classic Rock Stars

Timothée Chalamet and Monica Barbaro strum out a tune in character as Bob Dylan and his girlfriend Joan Baez while filming a biopic on Dylan in New Jersey on April 15.

Winning Streak

Terry Wyatt/Getty Images

Jelly Roll gives a passionate speech while accepting an award during the CMA Triple Play Awards in Nashville on April 15.

A Warm Embrace

Faye's Vision/INSTARimages

Riley Keough and Lily Gladstone pose together at the L.A. premiere of Under the Bridge on April 15.

Thinking Pink

T.JACKSON / BACKGRID

Brooke Shields stands out in a coral-colored jumpsuit on the streets of N.Y.C. on April 15.

The Boss on Tour

Astrida Valigorsky/Getty Images

Bruce Springsteen performs with his E Street Band at the MVP Arena in Albany, New York on April 15.

Mother-Daughter Style

ANDREA RENAULT/AFP via Getty Images

Charlize Theron and her daughter August , 7, sit front row during Dior's pre-fall fashion show at the Brooklyn Museum on April 15.

Jose Perez/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images

Looking sharp in a tailored black coat, Penn Badgley steps back into the role of stalker Joe Goldberg to film the upcoming season of You in N.Y.C. on April 15.

Talent Up Front

Naomi Watts and her daughter Kai neighbor Michelle Williams and Rachel Zegler in their seats at Dior's pre-fall runway show in Brooklyn on April 15.

Cameras Rolling

Sofia Carson looks sleek and chic in high-waisted white jeans and a striped blouse while on the set of The Life List in N.Y.C. on April 15.

Guitar Solo

Roberto Ricciuti/Redferns

Paul Weller plucks an electric guitar while rocking out on stage in Dunfermline, Scotland on April 15.

Selma Blair takes her service dog Scout to grab a cup of coffee under the L.A. sun on April 15.

Much to Celebrate

Michele Eve Sandberg/Shutterstock

Billy Porter and Lisa Rinna make a cool pair in sleek reflective sunglasses at the Miami Beach Pride Parade on April 14.

Daniele Venturelli/Getty Images

Zoe Saldaña and Marco Perego coordinate in all-black attire at a photocall for Moncler's "An Invitation to Dream" exhibition during Milan Design Week on April 15.

David Livingston/WireImage

Saturday Night Live alumni Andy Samberg and Seth Meyers share a moment at the PaleyFest screening of Late Night with Seth Meyers in Hollywood on April 15.

Girls Night

STARTHESTAR / SplashNews

Hanging out backstage, Ice Spice and Tyla support PinkPantheress (right) at her show in Brooklyn on April 14.

Ready to Watch

 Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic

Kirsten Dunst and Andrew Jarecki pair up on the red carpet in Beverly Hills for an advance screening of HBO's The Jinx: Part Two on April 15.

Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images

Kenan Thompson and Jaimie Alexander match their body language at the 9th annual Broadway for Self Help Africa benefit event in N.Y.C. on April 15.

Home Sweet Home

Will Forte lifts up his garage door to unveil a bedroom while filming a scene for Kinda Pregnant on April 15 in Brooklyn.

At the Afterparty

Todd Williamson/JanuaryImages

Lucy Boynton and Murdo Mitchell hang out at the premiere and reception for The Greatest Hits in L.A. on April 15.

Sitcom to Talk Show

Young Sheldon stars Iain Armitage , Montana Jordan , Raegan Revord , Lance Barber , Zoe Perry , Annie Potts and Emily Osment visit The Jennifer Hudson Show for a group appearance on April 16.

Collaboration Celebration

courtesy of Postmates

While at Coachella on April 13, Benny Blanco stops by the Postmates Sauce Bar and celebrates by taking a faux swig of The Secret Sauce he concocted in collaboration with Postmates.

Father-Son Bonding

London Entertainment/Shutterstock

Eli Manning carries his son Charlie , 6, at a soccer match between NJ/NY Gotham FC and the Kansas City Current at Red Bull Arena in Harrison, New Jersey, on April 14.

Heroic Good Looks

Henry Cavill looks cool behind a pair of sunglasses while out and about in Midtown Manhattan on April 15.

Park Outing

Nancy Rivera / SplashNews

Jessica Chastain wears shades and a burgundy jacket while shooting The Savant in New York City on April 15.

Smile and Wave

Looking ready for spring, Amy Schumer steps out in a floral skirt and matching tee on the set of Kinda Pregnant in Brooklyn on April 15.

Luke Wilson layers up in two colorful shades of plaid while running errands around Los Angeles on April 14.

Based on a True Story

Bobby Bank/GC Images

Rose Byrne gets into character wearing a topknot and pink headband on the New Jersey set of Tow on April 15.

Donnie Wahlberg flashes a thumbs up while shooting Blue Bloods with costar Marisa Ramirez on April 15 in New York City.

Scene Partners

Sofia Carson and her costar Sebastian De Souza shoot some romantic scenes from their upcoming project The Life List on set in New York City on April 15.

Icing Out the Competition

Juan Ocampo/NHLI via Getty

George Lopez and his daughter Mayan get ready to conduct the ceremonial puck drop between NHL players Drew Doughty and Cam Fowler ahead of the Los Angeles Kings' home game against the Anaheim Ducks on April 13.

Let the Games Begin

Kristin Callahan/Shutterstock

Caitlin Clark heads up to the top of the Empire State Building in N.Y.C. with a few of her fellow female basketball players (not pictured) to celebrate the WNBA Draft on April 15.

Leading Man

Ricky Vigil M / Justin E Palmer/GC Images

Johnny Depp wears a long gray coat over his suit at the London premiere of Jeanne Du Barry on April 15.

Looking Fire

Campbell "Pookie" Puckett and her husband Jett take on festival season in SoCal with 818 Tequila's outpost pop-up on April 12.

In the Breeze

Sam Ehrnstein

Colbie Caillat takes the stage during the inaugural Cattle Country Music Festival in Gonzales, Texas, on April 13.

Feeling Festive

International Delight

Victoria Justice enjoys a cup of Cold Foam Creamer at the International Delight Cold Foam House during Coachella weekend in Indio, California.

Off-Stage Fun

Courtesy of Pinterest

Sublime's newest member Jakob Nowell , the son of late band member Bradley Nowell, visits Pinterest's Coachella Manifest Station during the festival's weekend one.

Olga Thompson

Emma Bunton hangs out with Disney friends Clarice, Minnie Mouse, Daisy Duck and Clarabelle Cow while on vacation with her family at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida on April 11.

In the Spotlight

Michaelah Reynolds

The cast of Lempicka basks in their curtain call on opening night of the Broadway show on April 14 in N.Y.C.

Jennifer Lopez enjoys a sunny New York City on April 14 as she sports a pair of oversized shades and a green turtleneck.

Gilbert Flores/WWD via Getty

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce walk hand-in-hand as they step out for some fun at Coachella in Indio, California, on April 13.

Festival Smiles

Kevin Oswtajweski/MS/startraksphoto.com

Paris Hilton and Carter Reum are all loved up while enjoying a day at Coachella with Absolut on April 12.

Surprise, Surprise

Arturo Holmes/Getty

Will Smith hits the stage for a surprise performance with J Balvin during Coachella on April 14 in Indio, California.

Crowd Pleaser

Also at the star-studded festival, Bebe Rexha poses with her backup dancers during their set on April 14.

Keep Up the Energy

Tommaso Boddi/Getty

Barry Keoghan reps Burberry and Versace at the CELSIUS Cosmic Desert event during Coachella on April 12.

Emma McIntyre/Getty

Reneé Rapp gives Kesha a tight squeeze as the "Tik Tok" singer joins her on stage for her Coachella set on April 14.

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Quick Trips

Soccer pilgrim finds heaven at stamford bridge, home of famed chelsea.

Chelsea fans cheer on their team against Leicester City in the FA Cup quarterfinal at Stamford Bridge in London, England, on March 17, 2024. (Matthew M. Burke/Stars and Stripes)

Raheem Sterling, a winger for the British soccer team Chelsea, was booed off the pitch March 17 by his own fans. I, on the other hand, had a much better day taking in the action from the stands.

Being a huge soccer fan and Leicester City supporter, I traveled from Germany to Stamford Bridge as Chelsea took on the fearless Foxes in the FA Cup quarterfinal. It was my first ever European soccer match after 12 years in Japan.

I geeked out over Chelsea’s stadium tour and museum, getting to walk along the pitch and sit in the dressing room, surrounded by silverware, memorabilia and history.

The match day experience was world-class, as one would expect from a top-monied outfit. Leicester fell just short, 4-2, but the lads put on a rousing performance that brought the fans to their feet.

If you’re a Chelsea supporter, or just a soccer fan living pretty much anywhere in Europe, Stamford Bridge has to be on your short list of places to visit. It’s located in west London, which is about a two-hour drive for U.S. service members based at RAF Mildenhall or the other nearby bases.

Chelsea, as their fans love to remind you, is one of the most successful clubs of the century, with 21 major English and international trophies. They won the Champions League, or champions of Europe, in 2012 and 2021.

Chelsea fans celebrate as their team takes on Leicester City in the FA Cup quarterfinal at Stamford Bridge in London on Sunday, March 17, 2024. (Matthew M. Burke/Stars and Stripes)

An employee of Chelsea Football Club entertains and pokes fun at local rival Tottenham Hotspur during a tour of Stamford Bridge, London, on March 16, 2024. (Matthew M. Burke/Stars and Stripes)

The beef and onion pie and a pint of cider were the perfect pre-match fuel at Stamford Bridge, London, on March 17, 2024. (Matthew M. Burke/Stars and Stripes)

Soccer fans on the stadium tour of Stamford Bridge in London are treated to a glimpse of Chelsea Football Club's locker room on March 16, 2024. (Matthew M. Burke/Stars and Stripes)

Stamford Bridge in London was buzzing with activity on March 16, 2024, one day before Chelsea Football Club were to take on Leicester City in the FA Cup quarterfinal. (Matthew M. Burke/Stars and Stripes)

Soccer fans on the stadium tour of Stamford Bridge in London view the dais where countless managers have delivered postgame remarks on March 16, 2024. (Matthew M. Burke/Stars and Stripes)

Fans of Chelsea Football Club welcome Leicester City to Stamford Bridge in London with a giant banner prior to the FA Cup quarterfinal on March 17, 2024. (Matthew M. Burke/Stars and Stripes)

The day before the match, the Bridge was buzzing, with concessionaires and media moving equipment and tourists posing for selfies. I was apprehensive about dropping the roughly $38 for the stadium tour.

But I soon changed my mind; in fact, I would have paid twice as much.

We entered the stadium, being entertained by a cheeky English bloke making wisecracks about the misfortunes of Tottenham and Arsenal, which I think any self-respecting soccer fan can appreciate.

We walked around the stands and lined up in the tunnel, our group broadcast over the stadium’s enormous display; we sat in the press and players’ seats and entered both dressing rooms.

Not only would I see where my Foxes would receive their halftime pep talk from head coach Enzo Maresca the following day, but I got to sit in front of Didier Drogba’s old locker. The Premier League Hall of Famer netted more than 160 goals in nine years at the club.

I even got to sit at the desk where coaches from Carlo Ancelotti to Zinedine Zidane gave post-game press conferences. Drogba, one of my all-time favorite players, signed for the club at the pearly white table, located in the media room.

I was able to take my time meandering through the cavernous halls, photographing everything.

After the tour, I visited the team museum and beheld an eye-popping array of memorabilia, from game-worn shirts to signed cleats and a dazzling display of trophies and interactive displays.

All the heroes of Chelsea’s storied past were there, from Peter Osgood to Frank Lampard, John Terry and Eden Hazard. I was even able to touch the very Champions League trophy won by Drogba.

Chelsea Football Club battles Leicester City during the FA Cup quarterfinal at Stamford Bridge, London, on March 17, 2024. (Matthew M. Burke/Stars and Stripes)

Chelsea Football Club's numerous trophies are on display in their museum, part of the Stamford Bridge stadium tour, in London on March 16, 2024. (Matthew M. Burke/Stars and Stripes)

A signed, game-worn jersey of Chelsea great Didier Drogba from the club’s Champions League-winning 2011-12 season is just one of the pieces of memorabilia on display in the Chelsea Football Club museum at Stamford Bridge, London, on March 16, 2024. (Matthew M. Burke/Stars and Stripes)

Stars and Stripes reporter Matthew Burke, wearing Leicester blue, appears on the big screen across Stamford Bridge on March 16, 2024, while lining up in the tunnel as the players do on match day. (Matthew M. Burke/Stars and Stripes)

Supporters of Chelsea Football Club take in the action as the hometown team battles Leicester City in the FA Cup quarterfinal at Stamford Bridge, London, on March 17, 2024. (Matthew M. Burke/Stars and Stripes)

The following day, I walked back for the match. I kicked it off with a personal-sized beef and onion pie for just under $8 and a pint of cider for the equivalent of $8.61. The pie was perfect pre-match fuel, with a crisp outer crust and a moist and hearty filling.

The Blues rolled out all the pomp you would expect: fire cannons, huge flags, chants and the colorful language heard in the land of our British cousins.

Chelsea was aided by the referee, who awarded a red card for a phantom foul on Nicolas Jackson, but the Foxes gave them a real scare, battling even until extra time.

Being able to see the brilliance of Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and Stephy Mavididi for Leicester and Cole Palmer and Noni Madueke for Chelsea will forever remain a cherished memory, though I was disappointed that club legend Jamie Vardy did not feature.

The only downside to crossing the Pond to see a Premier League club is the cost. Hotels and airfare can set you back $500 before you even look for tickets on one of the price-gouging resale platforms.

I’ll surely be paying off this trip for the next year. However, I regret nothing, because for me, soccer is everything.

Location: Fulham Road, London

Hours: The stadium tour is 60 minutes and departs every 20 minutes between 9:40 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Cost: 30 pounds, or about $38

Information: www.chelseafc.com/en

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