Though it may be a very small city, and many prospective students may prefer to study somewhere a bit more lively, there is still plenty to do in York. This historic city is full of unique shops and museums, and there is a whole range of events on all year round. York is also a great place to study if you like pubs – there are over 200 total. I’d personally recommend The Lowther and Black Bull. Here are just some of the things you should do if you’re a student in York:
1. Sample chocolate at York Chocolate Story
Chocolate is York’s speciality (it is where Terry’s originated), so it would seem a shame to go to York and not stop off at York Chocolate Story. Find out how chocolate is made and try some delicious chocolate yourself.
2. Climb York Minster
York Minster is probably the city’s most famous attraction, and it’s definitely worth seeing, even if you don’t actually go inside. The Minster was built almost one thousand years ago and is located right in the centre. If you’re brave enough, climb the 275 steps to the top and you’ll be able to see views of the entire city. Remember to bring your camera!
3. Stroll down the Shambles
The Shambles is another place you must visit when you’re in York. The old-fashioned street won the award for Britain’s Most Picturesque Street in 2010 and inspired Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter films. Pop into The Earl Grey Tea Rooms for scrumptious afternoon tea.
4. Go on a ghost walk
Did you know that York is one of the most haunted cities in the world? Why not join a ghost tour and find out more about these ghosts?
5. Have afternoon tea at Betty’s
No trip to York would be complete without popping into Betty’s for afternoon tea. Be warned that there is usually a long queue to get into Betty’s so try to get there early.
6. Walk along York City Walls
Stretching for over two miles, York City Walls were originally used as a defence barrier for the city and are now open for the public to walk along. After stuffing your face at Betty’s, burn off those calories by walking around the city.
7. Drink cocktails at Evil Eye
York may not have the best nightlife in England, but it does have some great bars (though they’re best avoided on the weekends). Tucked away down a cobbled street in the centre of York is Evil Eye Lounge (better known as ‘Evil Eye’), which has become hugely popular during recent years. Evil Eye does a fantastic range of cocktails, including classics like Long Island Ice Tea and Mojito, and more adventurous ones like ‘Brazilian Monk’ and ‘Murder In A Hurricane’.
8. Relax in the museum gardens
York’s stunning gardens are ideal for a picnic on a long summer’s day. You can also watch a bird display or discover the ruins of the medieval St Mary’s Abbey. Chill in the botanic gardens after your exams and deadlines.
9. Hire a boat
If the weather’s nice and you’ve got some spare time, grab a boat from Lendal Bridge and explore the River Ouse.
10. Spend an afternoon in Rowntree Park
Rowntree Park is another great location for picnics and hanging out with your friends when you have no assignments to worry about. It’s situated to the south of the city centre and has a boating lake and tennis courts.
