York & Beyond Five Day Itinerary
- Michelle's Monologues
- Apr 9
- 11 min read
You might remember we visited the home of Christmas - York in December. We loved it so much, with loads more to see and do, we planned another extended trip in February. This time taking in more of York and beyond. Here is a five-day itinerary with something for the whole family.
York & Beyond Five-Day Itinerary
Day 1. Train to York from Edinburgh 2.5 hours with LNER (London North Eastern Railway)
Check into hotel - Premier Inn North Blossom Street, York
Research time of Coastliner York to Whitby for Saturday
Dinner at Brew York
We love traveling via train with LNER, and the east coast is very scenic. LNER also offer large luggage space at the end of each carriage as well as above the seat storage, for smaller bags and cases. Did you know LNER offer Perks? Join Perks today, and you will receive your first £5 free, and then 2% back on all your LNER journeys. LNER have also teamed up with Seatfrog, so you can upgrade to First Class at anytime and enjoy the complimentary food & drink! I have used the Seatfrog app a couple of times, and the experience has always been a success.
We stayed at Premier Inn North Blossom Street, York. You can never go wrong with a Premier Inn. The beds are so comfortable, and with over 800 location's you are sure to find one in a location that suits you. There are two Premier Inns on Blossom Street in York. We opted to stay at the one closest to York Railway Station on North Blossom Street. Though the downside is, if you would like any meals or drinks you need to go to the Premier Inn South Blossom Street. It isn't that far away, only another few minutes walk. We didn't book breakfast or dinner on this occasion as there are so many great places to eat and drink in York.
After check-in it was time to make our plan for our day trip to Whitby. The Coastliner 840 online timetable wasn't easy to master, so we went down the old fashioned route and found the bus stop with timetable outside York Train Station. All set, we took a wander around the centre of York and then headed to Brew York.
Brew York was founded in 2016 by friends Wayne Smith and Lee Grabham. The craft beer brewery is located in York city centre (Walmgate). You can also book onto one of their brewery tours. We went to try some of the craft beers and opted for Juice Forsyth 5% fruited IPA, and Fairytale of Brew York 4.9% Stout, along with YUZU Street Food. It was all delicious. Highly recommend! We ended up visiting the shop on the way out and buying some more of the tinned craft beers to bring home: Dreams of York, Empress Tonkoko, Rhubarbra Streisand, and Time Traveling Taxi.
Day 2. 9am Breakfast at Greggs
10am Barley Hall (entrance for a year)
11ish Yorkshire Museum
12.30pm Betty's Tea Rooms - Afternoon Tea
14.25 York City Cruise (Cancelled due to flooding)
16.00 The York Dungeon (Arrived early and they kindly allowed us to go earlier)
Golden Fleece Pub
Monk Bar Chocolates
Dinner Ye Olde Star Inn
19.30pm Witches Walking Tour
We were kindly gifted the York Pass for three days, and we made the most of it! It is really good value for money. If you add up all the entrance fees to what you would like to visit, and plan your time well. It is so good. We chose three consecutive days out of five to see more attractions in York city centre and also to go beyond to the coastal town of Whitby.
First up was Barley Hall (entrance included with York Pass, and not only that, you will be given a ticket valid for a year!)
Barley Hall
Barley Hall is a medieval townhouse, once lost due to being surrounded by other buildings. It was rediscovered in the 1980's! Today, you can see this hidden gem fully restored with its high ceilings, beautiful exposed timber frames and the magnificent great hall. Once owned by Prior's of Nostell and the Mayor of York. Bought by the York Archaeological Trust in January 1987, and after years of extensive restoration work was opened to the public in 1993. Don't miss the Beasts of Barley Hall Exhibition with stories of animals in medieval life, from domestic pets (and pests) and livestock to lions, bears and even dragons, using artefacts found in and around the city of York.
The Yorkshire Museum
The Yorkshire Museum (Included with York Pass) is one of the earliest purpose-built museums in the country (1830). The museum is built in the grounds of York’s Abbey, St Mary’s, on land given by royal grant in 1828. Today you can see the remains of some of the Abbey's buildings in the basement. The museum houses galleries showcasing some of Britain’s finest archaeological treasures from the city’s Roman, Viking and medieval past as well as a nationally significant natural science collection, some of which is currently on show in Yorkshire’s Jurassic World.
Highlights of the archaeological collections include the Roman statue of Mars, the best example of 3D Roman sculpture ever found in Britain, the York Helmet and the stunning Middleham Jewel. Don't miss following the footsteps of the pioneering Mary Anning and learn about her Jurassic discoveries, walk like a Roman across the four-metre square mosaic floor and a wall fresco, both found in York and see the magnificent objects from the Viking Age in the North of England from 866 to 1066, many unseen for generations and others which have never been on public display!
Betty's Tea Room
While in York, don't miss a visit to Betty's Tea Room. We pre-booked for afternoon tea, it was delicious! The delicate savoury sandwiches, oh, and the little sweet treats. Yum! I think it is the first time I have had a blueberry cream-filled eclair. The milk chocolate and pistachio bite was amazing, and the little lemon meringue pie - love-ly
Did you know it all started when Swiss confectioner Fredrick Belmont (originally Fritz Butzer) arrived in England in 1907? The York branch was opened in 1937, inspired by design elements on the RMS Queen Mary.
Today, you can enjoy iconic products such as Fat Rascals and more! These can be bought in the shop or online. P.s They travel well in the elegant gift boxes.
York Dungeon
Many cities have a Dungeon attraction with historical stories told by incredibly talented actors. York has its own fascinating and gruelling tales not to be missed at the York Dungeon. Discover York's dark 2000 years of history and meet famous characters including Dick Turpin and Guy Fawkes. It was so much fun! Will you be put on trial, in the torture chair or locked up in the cage? Don't forget the admission to York Dungeon is also included with the Visit York Pass!
Golden Fleece Pub
The Golden Fleece is a historic pub with records dating back to 1503, making it one of the city's oldest pubs. Originally a coaching inn owned by the Merchant Adventurers' Hall, it is renowned for its crooked medieval structure, 2,000-year-old cellar, and reputation as one of Britain's most haunted pubs with reported sightings of up to 15 ghosts!
The notoriously haunted guest rooms and bar area are frequented by spirits, including that of former owner Lady Alice Peckett and "One Eyed Jack".
We opted to visit late afternoon for a thirst-quenching pint, but would you stay in one of the haunted guest rooms?
Monk Bar Chocolates
The UK's chocolate capital, York, is home to Monk Bar Chocolates. The Artisan chocolatiers, established in 1999 by Ray and Liz Cardy, and originally located by one of the oldest gates (entrances into York) - Monk Bar. The family-run Monk Bar Chocolatiers is now located in The Shambles. Don't miss a visit for the delicious handmade individual chocolates and the liquid chocolate shots! These are pure chocolate heaven. Available in white, milk and dark chocolate. Which one will you try first? Amazing!
Ye Olde Star Inne
The Ye Olde Starre Inne is a family-friendly pub with a history spanning across the centuries. First built in 1644, it's believed to be the oldest pub in York and was even used as a hospital and mortuary during the English Civil War. The pub is a ghost hunter's dream, with sightings of many apparitions over the years. The pub food menu serves up classic plates and seasonal joys. Enjoy a drink from the well-stocked bar in one of three beer gardens - with views of the impressive Gothic York Minster Cathedral, or grab a seat by the roaring log fire. Free Wi-Fi to keep you connected, plus wheelchair accessibility for ease.
We enjoyed some pub classics, chips and onion rings alongside another refreshing pint before ....
Witches and History Walking Tour
The 75-minute witches and history walking tour in York is really fun! Start at Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma-Gate, then travel back in time as you dive into Yorkshire’s wicked history on this spellbindingly unique walking tour, led by a bewitching guide! See the famous sites of Shambles, York Minster, Stonegate and much more. This fun tour is also included with the Visit York Pass.
It was a great day, back to the hotel to get some rest before another awesome one tomorrow.
Day 3. Breakfast (Blueberry Bakery the day before)
09.23 Coastliner Bus to Whitby (Lady took unwell on bus while still in York)
11am Arrived Thornton-le-Dale
Visited the 17th-century Beck Isle Cottage, The Chocolate Factory, a delicious luxury hot chocolate at Lavenders Coffee Lounge
Departed Thornton-le-Dale - Arrived Whitby
Lunch - Greggs bakery (takeaway)
199 Steps, Whitby Abbey, Cook Museum, Pier, Jet Jewellery, Justin's Chocolate, Whale Bone, Sculpture Trail, Dinner: Fish & Chips
Last Coastliner Bus returning to York (Late & diverted via Scarborough)
Arrived back in York 8pm
Such a fun and beautiful day! You can read the more in-depth travel blog - Beyond The Historical City of York here.
Day 4. Breakfast Double Dutch Pancake House
10am Merchant Adventures Hall
12noon The Puzzling World of Professor Kettlestring
13.00 - 14.15pm Historical Gems Tour (rescheduled to following day due to lack of numbers)
Lunch - Sophies
4.30pm York Chocolate Story
Dinner York Roast
Double Dutch Pancake House
The best meal of the day, breakfast! Have you heard of Double Dutch Pancake House? This quaint, cosy cafe is a must-visit, with lots of speciality pancake and crepe options including, sweet, savoury, gluten-free and vegan. Launched in summer 2016 by Sheridan and David Walker, the popular pancake house is located on 7 Church Street. Get there early to avoid the long queue outside.
Merchant Adventures' Hall
Merchant Adventures' Hall is the finest example of medieval guild hall in the world! Home to York's entrepreneurs for 660 years and counting. Founded in the 14th century, to transact business affairs, meet socially, look after the poor and pray. With over 170 members across many professions, it was granted a Royal Charter by Queen Elizabeth I in 1581. Today, it is still as important and an active force in York's economy (from the 14th century, via railways and chocolate to the 21st century Science City), as well as seeking, inspiring and encouraging young entrepreneurs.
Admission is also included with the Visit York Pass. Open Sunday - Friday 10.00am - 4.30pm. Merchants’ Coffee House open to all.
Occasionally, the Hall is closed for private functions. Contact in advance of your visit. No pre-booking is required.
The Puzzling World of Professor Kettlestring
Right next door is The Puzzling World of Professor Kettlestring. This is the most surreal experience! Discover the imaginative Prof. Kettlestring, his incredible inventions, and his mysterious disappearance. Will you time-travel, be made small or as large as a giant, disappear with the cloak of invisibility, or will your head be on the dinner plate? Highly recommend! It is so much fun for the whole family in the centre of York.
Entry included with the Visit York Pass. Recommend Pre-booking. Allow at least 90 minutes for the mind-boggling experience.
Top Tip: Don't forget your camera. You will want to capture these puzzling and fun times.
Sophie's
After all the shenanigans (being silly), it was time for lunch. Sophie's is a beautiful little coffee shop with delicious homemade tray bakes, soup and sandwiches. With two quirky locations to choose from Lendal Bridge and Skeltergate Bridge both with views over the River Ouse. Which one will you visit?
We walked off the delicious soup and sandwich along York's historic walls, in preparation for our visit to York's Chocolate Story.
While visiting the "chocolate city" why not discover over 4,000 years of chocolate?
York's Chocolate Story
York's Chocolate Story is a fun and interactive tour taking just over an hour. Learn about York's iconic chocolate brands, including KitKat, Smarties, and Terry's Chocolate Orange, taste some delicious chocolate, and make your own chocolate lolly to takeaway. If you love chocolate, you will love this tour! There are also other chocolate workshops such as truffle making and speciality ones for Valentines, Easter etc. Please do book inadvance to avoid disappointment. Did I mention the tour is included with your Visit York Pass?
The York Roast Co.
We had such a great experience at The York Roast Co., and with one not too far away we decided to return for another delicious giant Yorkshire, filled with vegetables, turkey and gravy. It was just as good. Yum! Did you know, according to a British law from 2008, a Yorkshire pudding isn't truly Yorkshire unless it rises to at least four inches in height?
"Life is batter with a Yorkshire pudding"!
Day 5. Breakfast greggs
Historical Gems & Taste of York Chocolate Tour (11am - 12.15pm)
Lunch Impossible York
Designer Outlet
Dinner - The Star Inn
Historical Gems & Taste of York Chocolate Tour
A slow and restful start today, alongside excited anticipation for the Historical Gems & Taste of York Chocolate Tour. A great way to discover more about a city is a walking tour, and this one is so much fun with the eccentric character guide - Sherlumbo. Delve deep into historical York and discover hidden gems, surprising secrets and in pain sight treasures. This one-hour easy walking tour with chocolate is a must! Oh, and it's also included in the Visit York Pass. Please book in advance.
Impossible York
Impossible York is located in the grade II listed former Terry's Chocolate Orange building on St Helen's Square, in the heart of historical York. Lunch in the elegant Impossible York, was delicious. Looking forward to returning and sampling more of the Wanderbar cocktails.
York Designer Outlet
York city centre is very easy to walk around, and almost everything is within a 15-minute walk, except the Designer Outlet. At only a 20-minute bus ride away, you can be at the huge indoor shopping outlet with over 100 brands! It is well worth a visit.
Take the number 7 bus from outside York Railway Station. Takes around 20 minutes and departs every 15/20 minutes. £3.90 per adult for a day return ticket.
Which brand will you visit first, Ralph Lauren, Harbo, or perhaps Sketchers?
The Star Inn Restaurant
Tonight we pre-booked The Star Inn Restaurant located on the picturesque River Ouse. The Star Inn brings rustic-charm of the countryside to the city of York. The award-winning restaurant showcases the finest locally-sourced ingredients, expertly crafted into scrumptious seasonal dishes. I was excited to try a dish I had never tried before - Yorkshire Moors Shot Partridge Risotto with wild mushrooms, wilted garden kale, braised chestnuts, and aged Parmesan. It was delicious! All of the meal was, in beautiful surroundings, with twinkling lights reflecting off the river. Looking forward to returning soon and tasting the seasonal delights from the spring/summer menu.
Day 6. Check-Out Premier Inn North, Blossom Street, York
Brunch at Pret a Manger York Train Station
13.06 - 15.34 Train York to Edinburgh
I hope you have enjoyed reading and feel inspired to visit the historical and charming city of York & beyond. As always, I love to hear from you with any comments/questions you may have. You can get in touch in the usual ways via the comments down below, Facebook or email.
Until next time..
Happy Travels,
Michelle x
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