York’s thriving city centre is gearing up for a lively summer. On top of all the famous attractions and experiences that draw people all year round, there’s plenty going on to ensure an unforgettable summer city break for families, friends and couples alike.
A day at the races
It’s racing season at the Knavesmire, York’s iconic racecourse. Get yourself a fancy hat and head to one of several prestigious events throughout the summer. August’s Ebor Festival is one of the highlights of the British racign calendar, with the Juddmonte Inrternational widely regarded as one of the world’s top races. The John Smith’s Cup also brings a lively atmosphere to the city in July. Take a look at all the summer fixtures at the Knavesmire.
Al fresco dining…
Dining under blue skies is a rare treat, and nowhere in York does it better than Star Inn the City. Nestled in the corner of the Museum Gardens, it’s just a few minutes walk from 10 St Marys. Enjoy award-winning food on the fabulous decking overlooking the River Ouse. You’ll also get a close-up look at the imposing Lendal Tower, one of our sister properties – it’s right next door.
Revel in Thor’s Orangery
Thor’s Orangery has been a popular feature of York’s central Parliament Street for the last couple of summers. It’s a cracking little space to enjoy street food, summer cocktails, live music and plenty of laughs with family and friends, and brightens up the already vibrant city centre in the warmer months.
Festival of ideas
Why not expand your mind while on holiday with York Festival of Ideas, which takes place throughout early June? Over 200 events featuring an eclectic mix of speakers educate, entertain and inspire visitors. Delve into all manner of subjects, from tech to the Tudors and Shakespeare to sharks. With plenty of music, theatre and entertainment going on as well, there’s truly something for everyone.
A surprising Yorkshire tradition
Wine lovers have a unique opportunity when visiting York: not one but three fantastic vineyards are just outside York. It may come as a surprise to some but Yorkshire has a flourishing winemaking tradition. And you can get a taste of it with a tour of a local vineyard.
Yorkshire Heart offers tours of their beautiful vineyard with options for a light lunch or afternoon tea.
Dunesford Vineyard offers a wine tour with a bit of history, as it is situated near the site of a former Roman settlement where wine was almost certainly made two thousand years ago.
Rydale Vineyards offers a relaxed and fun-filled tour led by Jack, the owners’ son and Winery Manager, who was voted Wine Personality of the Year 2022. You can also sample cider from their small orchard, and a selection of local cheeses.
York Maze
From July to September, one of York’s most popular family attractions springs into life. York Maze is where families can lose themselves in over one million living maize plants. It’s the UK’s largest maze and also includes an array of rides, shows, parties and play areas, offering families an unforgettable day of fun.
Day trips
York’s surrounding countryside is as majestic as the city itself. The North York Moors are a walker’s paradise, while the coastal villages of the North Yorkshire coast are as quaint and inviting as any in the UK. Villages such as Pickering, Malton, and Helmsley, with its castle and abbey and burgeoning food scene, offer plenty to do on a summers day.
York is bustling and beautiful all year round, and in addition to the summer highlights we’ve picked out here, our wonderful city offers all manner of evergreen attractions to suit all interests and ages.
Check our availability and book your luxurious summer break in York.