Victoria Cloisters Guidebook
Attractions In York
Here are some details of our fantastic attractions in and around York. We love them all and are sure you will too! No visit to York is complete without visiting at least one!
York’s Chocolate Story
Discover the story of Chocolate in one of York’s newest attractions. A fascinating guided tour where you can learn the secret of why chocolate makes us feel good! Watch a professional chocolatier at work and create hand-made chocolates yourself. If that’s not enough you can indulge further in their Indulgence Zone with coffee and homemade chocolate cake! MMmmmmmm…..
Tip: Book a tour time before you arrive.
www.yorkschocolatestory.com
Open daily 10.00am-6.00pm (last tour 5pm)
62 locals recommend
York's Chocolate Story
3-4 Kings SquareYork’s Chocolate Story
Discover the story of Chocolate in one of York’s newest attractions. A fascinating guided tour where you can learn the secret of why chocolate makes us feel good! Watch a professional chocolatier at work and create hand-made chocolates yourself. If that’s not enough you can indulge further in their Indulgence Zone with coffee and homemade chocolate cake! MMmmmmmm…..
Tip: Book a tour time before you arrive.
www.yorkschocolatestory.com
Open daily 10.00am-6.00pm (last tour 5pm)
Nowhere tells the story of the train better than the National Railway museum. Go back to the time of steam trains, explore the three giant halls and experience The Flying Scotsman.
Just a short walk away from your accommodation, approx 10 minutes, there is also a road train between the York Minster and the Museum which operates daily.
Note: This museum is free of charge and you could spend a whole day here!
Leeman Road
York
01904 621261
24 hour recorded information line 01904 686286
Open daily 10.00am – 18.00pm (17.00pm in some winter months)
24 locals recommend
National Railway Museum (Main Entrance) station
Nowhere tells the story of the train better than the National Railway museum. Go back to the time of steam trains, explore the three giant halls and experience The Flying Scotsman.
Just a short walk away from your accommodation, approx 10 minutes, there is also a road train between the York Minster and the Museum which operates daily.
Note: This museum is free of charge and you could spend a whole day here!
Leeman Road
York
01904 621261
24 hour recorded information line 01904 686286
Open daily 10.00am – 18.00pm (17.00pm in some winter months)
Built on the site of a successful archaeological gig, the Jorvik Viking centre will be an experience to remember. Discover what life was like living over 1000 years ago and explore the history on where the archaeologists uncovered remains.
Note: It's worth booking in advance, queues can be long in the busy months!
Coppergate
York
01904 543403 for advanced bookings
*Open every day except Christmas Day
181 locals recommend
Jorvik Viking Centre
19 CoppergateBuilt on the site of a successful archaeological gig, the Jorvik Viking centre will be an experience to remember. Discover what life was like living over 1000 years ago and explore the history on where the archaeologists uncovered remains.
Note: It's worth booking in advance, queues can be long in the busy months!
Coppergate
York
01904 543403 for advanced bookings
*Open every day except Christmas Day
Step back in time and visit the Castle Museum, an attraction well worth seeing.
Experience the reconstructed Victorian Street, the Edwardian shopping experience and Dick Turpins Cell along learning about the World War’s and living in the 1960’s. With more than 100,000 items on display there is something for everyone
Note: The museums main areas are ground floor and are fully accessible to wheelchair users. No access to upper floors. Prepare to spend plenty of time here!
Castle Area
Eye of York
York
01904 687687
Open daily 9.30am – 17.00pm
*Closed 25th & 26th December and 1st January
Note: The museums main areas are ground floor and are fully accessible to wheelchair users. No access to upper floors
126 locals recommend
York Castle Museum
Tower StreetStep back in time and visit the Castle Museum, an attraction well worth seeing.
Experience the reconstructed Victorian Street, the Edwardian shopping experience and Dick Turpins Cell along learning about the World War’s and living in the 1960’s. With more than 100,000 items on display there is something for everyone
Note: The museums main areas are ground floor and are fully accessible to wheelchair users. No access to upper floors. Prepare to spend plenty of time here!
Castle Area
Eye of York
York
01904 687687
Open daily 9.30am – 17.00pm
*Closed 25th & 26th December and 1st January
Note: The museums main areas are ground floor and are fully accessible to wheelchair users. No access to upper floors
It may not be in the city centre but just a short drive or bus journey you can visit the Yorkshire Air Museum. Based on the WWII bomber command station, look at all the aircrafts and memorial gardens. Whether you’re young or old this is a great day out for all the family.
Halifax Way
Elvington
York
YO41 4AU
*Closed 25th and 26th December
Disabled access and free parking
25 locals recommend
Yorkshire Air Museum & Allied Air Forces Memorial
Halifax WayIt may not be in the city centre but just a short drive or bus journey you can visit the Yorkshire Air Museum. Based on the WWII bomber command station, look at all the aircrafts and memorial gardens. Whether you’re young or old this is a great day out for all the family.
Halifax Way
Elvington
York
YO41 4AU
*Closed 25th and 26th December
Disabled access and free parking
Enjoy the stunning views from this proud symbol of the might of our medieval kings. It was at the heart of William the Conqueror’s fearsome ‘Harrying of the North’ campaign to stamp out resistance in the rebellious north after his 1066 invasion. For centuries after, the ‘Kings Tower’ played a key role in the control of England surviving flood, fire and siege.
Tower Street
York
YO1 9SA
01904 646940
**Closed 24th, 25th, 26th December and 1st January
67 locals recommend
Clifford's Tower, York
Tower StEnjoy the stunning views from this proud symbol of the might of our medieval kings. It was at the heart of William the Conqueror’s fearsome ‘Harrying of the North’ campaign to stamp out resistance in the rebellious north after his 1066 invasion. For centuries after, the ‘Kings Tower’ played a key role in the control of England surviving flood, fire and siege.
Tower Street
York
YO1 9SA
01904 646940
**Closed 24th, 25th, 26th December and 1st January
Deep in the heart of historic York lurks the north’s infamous museum of horror, taking you more than 2000 years back to life and death. Everything you experience really did happen. There are scenes from the Plague, Dick Turpin, the lost Roman Legion and Guy Fawkes. If you like a little horror, then this is one attraction you should go and see.
**The Dungeons are not recommended for children under the age of 10 as it is scary!!
Note: Get your discount tickets from The Queens Hotel Reception team.
12 Clifford Street
York
01904 632599
*Closed 25th December
76 locals recommend
The York Dungeon
12 Clifford StDeep in the heart of historic York lurks the north’s infamous museum of horror, taking you more than 2000 years back to life and death. Everything you experience really did happen. There are scenes from the Plague, Dick Turpin, the lost Roman Legion and Guy Fawkes. If you like a little horror, then this is one attraction you should go and see.
**The Dungeons are not recommended for children under the age of 10 as it is scary!!
Note: Get your discount tickets from The Queens Hotel Reception team.
12 Clifford Street
York
01904 632599
*Closed 25th December
The Original Ghost Walk of York leaves nightly from the Kings Arms Pub, Ousebridge, York, ... this is the genuine, the authentic, the magical and the famous Original Ghost Walk of York...
Note: Pay the guide on the night. Wear flat shoes for York's cobbled streets!
*8pm every night no need to book
23 locals recommend
The Original Ghost Walk of York
King's StaithThe Original Ghost Walk of York leaves nightly from the Kings Arms Pub, Ousebridge, York, ... this is the genuine, the authentic, the magical and the famous Original Ghost Walk of York...
Note: Pay the guide on the night. Wear flat shoes for York's cobbled streets!
*8pm every night no need to book
On your trip to York, the York Minster must not be missed. One of the largest and greatest cathedrals in the world, the Minster is the mother church of the northern province. Be amazed by this architectural masterpiece and the medieval stained glass including the famous Rose Window.
Note: are you brave enough to climb to the top of the tower for stunning views over York and beyond? Not for the fainthearted!
Open daily for services and worship. Check visitor times on the website.
209 locals recommend
York Minster
DeangateOn your trip to York, the York Minster must not be missed. One of the largest and greatest cathedrals in the world, the Minster is the mother church of the northern province. Be amazed by this architectural masterpiece and the medieval stained glass including the famous Rose Window.
Note: are you brave enough to climb to the top of the tower for stunning views over York and beyond? Not for the fainthearted!
Open daily for services and worship. Check visitor times on the website.
York Art Gallery is a public art gallery with a collection of paintings from 14th-century to contemporary, prints, watercolours, drawings, and ceramics. After major redevelopment in 2013, the gallery reopened in summer of 2015. It is managed by York Museums Trust.
https://www.yorkartgallery.org.uk/
118 locals recommend
York Art Gallery
Exhibition SquareYork Art Gallery is a public art gallery with a collection of paintings from 14th-century to contemporary, prints, watercolours, drawings, and ceramics. After major redevelopment in 2013, the gallery reopened in summer of 2015. It is managed by York Museums Trust.
https://www.yorkartgallery.org.uk/
Places to eat
We have put together a few recommendations of places to eat, in and around York. There are so many great restaurants, cafes and bistros in York, you will be spoilt for choice! #indieyork #foodieyork
With a range of mouthwatering steaks, burgers and great craft ales to wash them down with you won't be disappointed. Their menu is not extensive, it does what it says on the tin! Great cuts of meat. I can highly recommend the Flat Iron steak which is currently* £10, you will need to order sides which are generous in size so don't go overboard!
No bookings taken but they are organised with their wait list whilst you enjoy a drink from the bar.
*price correct April 2019
20 locals recommend
The Cut & Craft
8 St Sampsons SquareWith a range of mouthwatering steaks, burgers and great craft ales to wash them down with you won't be disappointed. Their menu is not extensive, it does what it says on the tin! Great cuts of meat. I can highly recommend the Flat Iron steak which is currently* £10, you will need to order sides which are generous in size so don't go overboard!
No bookings taken but they are organised with their wait list whilst you enjoy a drink from the bar.
*price correct April 2019
One of York's best independent eateries offering a very extensive Mediterranean menu with pizza's, pasta's, risotto and a whole choice of other wonderful dishes. Plenty of seating across 2 floors and 2 buildings as well as outdoor tables with overhead heaters too. This place has a real buzz about it, great service and lovely food!
No bookings taken unless groups over 6, deposits required for group bookings.
50 locals recommend
Lucia Restaurant
13 SwinegateOne of York's best independent eateries offering a very extensive Mediterranean menu with pizza's, pasta's, risotto and a whole choice of other wonderful dishes. Plenty of seating across 2 floors and 2 buildings as well as outdoor tables with overhead heaters too. This place has a real buzz about it, great service and lovely food!
No bookings taken unless groups over 6, deposits required for group bookings.
Just a short walk out of town to Bishopthorpe Road area you will find a bustling high street with plenty of places to eat and do a spot of local grocery shopping.
Angel on the Green, a converted bike shop still has a repair service and small area with bike accessories. A local independent place to relax and enjoy a drink and something to eat. They always offer a specials board with light bites and something a little more substantial. Try the fish finger sandwich.....fresh light battered fish goujons between two thick slices of soda bread! Delicious! Homemade food, with something for everyone.
30 locals recommend
The Angel On The Green
2 Bishopthorpe RdJust a short walk out of town to Bishopthorpe Road area you will find a bustling high street with plenty of places to eat and do a spot of local grocery shopping.
Angel on the Green, a converted bike shop still has a repair service and small area with bike accessories. A local independent place to relax and enjoy a drink and something to eat. They always offer a specials board with light bites and something a little more substantial. Try the fish finger sandwich.....fresh light battered fish goujons between two thick slices of soda bread! Delicious! Homemade food, with something for everyone.
This has to be one of the best coffee shops in York! #indieyork
You will find this gem on Museum Street opposite the city library. You may have to wait for a table as it is so popular and cosy in size. The coffee is great, service warm and friendly and the pancake stack is amazing! This place is perfect for breakfast, brunch or a light bite. If you have space after you have eaten then you really should try their homemade brownie!
31 locals recommend
Brew & Brownie
5 Museum StThis has to be one of the best coffee shops in York! #indieyork
You will find this gem on Museum Street opposite the city library. You may have to wait for a table as it is so popular and cosy in size. The coffee is great, service warm and friendly and the pancake stack is amazing! This place is perfect for breakfast, brunch or a light bite. If you have space after you have eaten then you really should try their homemade brownie!
If you are looking for somewhere with amazing food and an atmosphere to match then I would more than recommend this restaurant. The set menu's are not only bursting with delicious meals but with a choice of a 3 course meal at around £18 or a 2 course at around £15 you can't ask for better value for money.
This restaurant lends well for any occasion from birthday celebrations to a romantic meal out. I would without doubt recommend anyone to go here!
35 locals recommend
Rustique
28 CastlegateIf you are looking for somewhere with amazing food and an atmosphere to match then I would more than recommend this restaurant. The set menu's are not only bursting with delicious meals but with a choice of a 3 course meal at around £18 or a 2 course at around £15 you can't ask for better value for money.
This restaurant lends well for any occasion from birthday celebrations to a romantic meal out. I would without doubt recommend anyone to go here!
Entertainment
We are lucky enough to have a choice of Theatres, comedy and events venues in York. You can enjoy comedy, musical theatre, play's, panto, live music, dance and much more within the city walls.
This wonderful 18th century Theatre owned by the York Conservation Trust recently underwent a massive restoration project. The Theatre Royal is proud to be a cultural hub with a rich history within the city. There is always something to see, from their own productions under Artistic Director, Damien Crudden to hosting touring companies such as Pilot Theatre. During the summer months they always offer a production suitable for families, this year it's Swallows and Amazons. Pre-show meals, drinks and cafe are also available here. A good range of snacks and home-made cakes are always on offer, the cafe is open to the public all day.
https://www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk/
27 locals recommend
York Theatre Royal
Saint Leonard's PlaceThis wonderful 18th century Theatre owned by the York Conservation Trust recently underwent a massive restoration project. The Theatre Royal is proud to be a cultural hub with a rich history within the city. There is always something to see, from their own productions under Artistic Director, Damien Crudden to hosting touring companies such as Pilot Theatre. During the summer months they always offer a production suitable for families, this year it's Swallows and Amazons. Pre-show meals, drinks and cafe are also available here. A good range of snacks and home-made cakes are always on offer, the cafe is open to the public all day.
https://www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk/
From West End musicals to stand up comedians, live bands to family shows, The Grand Opera House presents an irresistible mix of shows for all tastes.
https://www.atgtickets.com/venues/grand-opera-house-york/
26 locals recommend
Grand Opera House
Cumberland StreetFrom West End musicals to stand up comedians, live bands to family shows, The Grand Opera House presents an irresistible mix of shows for all tastes.
https://www.atgtickets.com/venues/grand-opera-house-york/
The Barbican offers a diverse programme of events taking advantage of the venue’s 1500 seated and 1900 standing capacities. Events on offer include comedy, a range of live bands, snooker, family shows and community events.
The annual Festival of Remembrance and the Lord Mayor’s Carol Concert have returned to the Barbican as a regular part of the programme, as has the Guildhall Orchestra.
http://www.yorkbarbican.co.uk/
19 locals recommend
The Barbican
Paragon StreetThe Barbican offers a diverse programme of events taking advantage of the venue’s 1500 seated and 1900 standing capacities. Events on offer include comedy, a range of live bands, snooker, family shows and community events.
The annual Festival of Remembrance and the Lord Mayor’s Carol Concert have returned to the Barbican as a regular part of the programme, as has the Guildhall Orchestra.
http://www.yorkbarbican.co.uk/
Riverside arthouse cinema with cafe/bar and tapas restaurant, live music and comedy in the basement.
City centre and only a 5 minute walk from Victoria Cloisters. You will find the usual blockbusters alongside Live ROH, Royal Ballet and London Theatre shows. This cinema offers Mother and Baby screening as well autism friendly showings.
https://www.picturehouses.com/cinema/York_Picturehouse
67 locals recommend
City Screen Picturehouse York
13-17 Coney StRiverside arthouse cinema with cafe/bar and tapas restaurant, live music and comedy in the basement.
City centre and only a 5 minute walk from Victoria Cloisters. You will find the usual blockbusters alongside Live ROH, Royal Ballet and London Theatre shows. This cinema offers Mother and Baby screening as well autism friendly showings.
https://www.picturehouses.com/cinema/York_Picturehouse
A unique experience, Everyman Cinema is part of an independent network of boutique cinemas. Restored back to its glorious best, after a 15-week, £3 million transformation this cinema offers a luxury film viewing experience. You will have a choice of comfortable armchairs and two seater sofas as well as the option to have food delivered to you during your viewing experience! A real treat for cinema goers!
https://www.everymancinema.com/york
30 locals recommend
Everyman Cinema York
Blossom StreetA unique experience, Everyman Cinema is part of an independent network of boutique cinemas. Restored back to its glorious best, after a 15-week, £3 million transformation this cinema offers a luxury film viewing experience. You will have a choice of comfortable armchairs and two seater sofas as well as the option to have food delivered to you during your viewing experience! A real treat for cinema goers!
https://www.everymancinema.com/york
Days Out
Other ideas to enhance your visit to our wonderful city and region...
York is proud to offer flat racing from May to October. With the option to picnic in the enclosure or dress up and hob nob in the Grandstand, York Races is always a great day out!
The racecourse also host other events throughout the year such as the Stamp and Coin Fair, Antique Book Fair, Living North Spring and Christmas Fairs.
The racecourse is walk-able from Victoria Cloisters.
https://www.yorkracecourse.co.uk/
48 locals recommend
York Racecourse
York is proud to offer flat racing from May to October. With the option to picnic in the enclosure or dress up and hob nob in the Grandstand, York Races is always a great day out!
The racecourse also host other events throughout the year such as the Stamp and Coin Fair, Antique Book Fair, Living North Spring and Christmas Fairs.
The racecourse is walk-able from Victoria Cloisters.
https://www.yorkracecourse.co.uk/
The seaside is only a 45 minute drive from York, there is also a regular Coastliner bus service leaving from the Station or the train as a quicker option.
125 locals recommend
Scarborough
The seaside is only a 45 minute drive from York, there is also a regular Coastliner bus service leaving from the Station or the train as a quicker option.
Take a trip over the scenic Yorkshire Moors to Whitby. Boasting the ruined Gothic Abbey which inspired Bram Stokers 'Dracula' the wonderful seaside town has so much to offer. Museums, history, beach and the best fish and chips.
Whitby hosts an annual Goth Weekend in October.
By car approx 105 minutes, 2 hours 20 on the Coastliner bus. There is also a train every 60 minutes, you will also need to take a bus if you take this travel option.
252 locals recommend
Whitby
Take a trip over the scenic Yorkshire Moors to Whitby. Boasting the ruined Gothic Abbey which inspired Bram Stokers 'Dracula' the wonderful seaside town has so much to offer. Museums, history, beach and the best fish and chips.
Whitby hosts an annual Goth Weekend in October.
By car approx 105 minutes, 2 hours 20 on the Coastliner bus. There is also a train every 60 minutes, you will also need to take a bus if you take this travel option.
With the Kids...
A few ideas of local things to do with the kids from parks, to trampolines to high ropes!
Rowntree Park was created in 1921 in memory of those who had lost their lives in WW1.
A short walk along the river path from Victoria Cloisters.
This fantastic family friendly green space can found along the banks of the River Ouse. Open to the public daily the park boasts children play parks, skate park, baskeball court, tennis courts, lake, picnic areas and a small cafe.
Various events are promoted by The Friends of Rowntree Park.
http://www.rowntreepark.org.uk/
85 locals recommend
Rowntree Park
Terry AvenueRowntree Park was created in 1921 in memory of those who had lost their lives in WW1.
A short walk along the river path from Victoria Cloisters.
This fantastic family friendly green space can found along the banks of the River Ouse. Open to the public daily the park boasts children play parks, skate park, baskeball court, tennis courts, lake, picnic areas and a small cafe.
Various events are promoted by The Friends of Rowntree Park.
http://www.rowntreepark.org.uk/
Fantastic place to keep the kids entertained! Indoor Play Centre, High Ropes, Animal Zone and food and drink!
A short drive out of York on the inner ring road to Wigginton Road.
https://webadventurepark.co.uk/
13 locals recommend
The Web Adventure Park
Wigginton RoadFantastic place to keep the kids entertained! Indoor Play Centre, High Ropes, Animal Zone and food and drink!
A short drive out of York on the inner ring road to Wigginton Road.
https://webadventurepark.co.uk/
A short drive out of York located on the inner ring road at Poppleton Park.
https://www.energileisureparks.com/york
6 locals recommend
Energi Trampoline Park York
3-7 Rose AveA short drive out of York located on the inner ring road at Poppleton Park.
https://www.energileisureparks.com/york
Pottery Painting in York, suitable for all ages. Softplay area, Cafe serving Suki Tea, fine coffee and lovely cakes. Pottery Wheel, Clay and Glass courses for adults.
Only a short walk to Walmgate from the apartment.
https://bishbashpot.co.uk/
Bish Bash Pot
64 WalmgatePottery Painting in York, suitable for all ages. Softplay area, Cafe serving Suki Tea, fine coffee and lovely cakes. Pottery Wheel, Clay and Glass courses for adults.
Only a short walk to Walmgate from the apartment.
https://bishbashpot.co.uk/
Choose your pottery and then create your own painted design. With ceramics starting at £6 and a small charge for your studio session which includes the use of your paints and firing/glazing this is great family fun.
Only a short walk to Bootham from the apartment.
http://rainbowsceramics.co.uk/
Rainbows Ceramics Painting Studio
15-17 BoothamChoose your pottery and then create your own painted design. With ceramics starting at £6 and a small charge for your studio session which includes the use of your paints and firing/glazing this is great family fun.
Only a short walk to Bootham from the apartment.
http://rainbowsceramics.co.uk/