Free Things To Do In York

One of the city’s most iconic landmarks, the York City Walls has stood tall for nearly 2,000 years. Completely free to walk, the walls are the perfect opportunity to see all that York has to offer from the perfect viewpoint, from the modern renovations and bustling, busy streets to the historic buildings and quirky oddities to be found. Taking 2 hours to walk in its entirety, you’ll see remnants from the wall’s heyday, arrow slits, musket loops, sculptures and mason marks.

A perfect, idyllic haven of tranquillity found amidst the hustle and bustle of the city, the Museum Gardens is a wonderful escape from city life to beautiful nature. Established in the 1830s By The Yorkshire Philosophical Society, the gardens are renowned for their stunning assortment of trees, shrubs, perennials and more natural wonders. The gardens are also home to some of the most incredible archaeological finds in Europe, including the stunning St. Mary’s Abbey. First built during the 11th century by William II, the Abbey became the most powerful and wealthiest monastery in Northern England at the time.

One of York’s most famous landmarks, the Shambles is one of the best-preserved medieval shopping streets in Europe. Cobbled streets and overhanging buildings fill the pathways as the area transports you back in time, as the Shambles is believed to be the inspiration for Diagon Alley from the Harry Potter series. Whilst the streets may be full of shops, you can still wander for free and marvel at the incredibly preserved buildings and stores, with the properties still featuring architecture and exteriors straight from the periods they were first made.

Home to an unparalleled collection of engineering innovation and iconic locomotives, the National Railway Museum celebrates the past, present and future of railway engineering. Explore over 200 years of history and discover how railways shaped and connected our modern world. Journey back in time to experience the inner workings of life at a station and learn how speed rail travel began. See iconic trains such as the famous Flying Scotsman, which celebrates 100 years in 2023, the “Mallard” London & North Eastern Railway steam locomotive, and the King's Own Yorkshire Light Infantry locomotive.

First opened in 1921 as a memorial park, Rowntree Park has served as a wonderful oasis away from the busy city. Located just a 15-minute walk from the city centre along the River Ouse, Rowntree Park is a wonderful day out for visitors of all ages that is completely free to visit. The 10-hectare site includes play parks, tennis courts, a skatepark and basketball court, table tennis facilities, duck ponds, wildlife walks and trails and a cafe/library. There’s plenty to see and do, along with ample opportunity to relax and enjoy a picnic.

Free to enjoy and perfect for taking in all the local sights, the River Ouse encapsulates all of York’s beauty and unique qualities. A wonderful stroll on sunny days, or a walk along the river gives you the opportunity to see the busy city come to life, from locals at work to the nearby nature in bloom. A loop of the river from Skeldergate Bridge to Lendal Bridge in the town centre will give you the full experience of every nook and cranny found in York.