Your guide to wellness inspired things to do in York, England.
As a lover of old period architecture, York had been on my bucket list for some time. So earlier this year, after spending six days in Scotland, I took the train to York for a two night stay.
Honestly, the fact that it’s only a two hour train ride from both Edinburgh and London, makes York an ideal stopping point on any UK itinerary. Well, that and the amazing sense of history that blankets every corner of the city.
With so much history packed into a compact city, I figured it would be a good place to wander with my camera in hand and take in the tiny details.
Gracious, it did not disappoint!
For two days it was a mix of snow, rain and sun. I bit the dust on a slippery rock, got caught in a downpour twice, had frozen fingers more than once and still had the time of my life.
With endless beautiful cityscapes and history at every turn, you’re pulled you into another world. A kin to Bath down south, it’s a great place to explore period architecture.
7 Wellness Things to Do in York
Hands down, here’s the best thing about York… it’s great to explore on foot.
It’s an ideal place to take mindful photo walks. In fact, walking the alleys and Snickelways (footpaths) was my favorite part York. Exploring that hidden corners could keep you busy for days!
In reality, there are lots of ways to enrich your self-care as you explore York. Here are 7 other wellness inspired things to do in the city center. These are just a few of the nourishing experiences I found while getting to know the city.
Walk The Roman Walls
York is encased by medieval walls, making this an ideal way to take in the city and get some exercise at the same time.
With the longest town walls in England, the 2.6 mile trail allows for some awe-inspiring views.
After arriving at the train station, York welcomed me with one of its best views almost immediately.
With York Minster framed at the end of the wall, this is a place you want to linger and appreciate in the view.
Both days I walked the wall. Since its circular, you can really kick-off your walk anywhere, or wander pieces of it as you go. A good starting point is at Bootham Bar, right next to York Minster. Right off the bat you’re rewarded with some spectacular views and it’s inspiring!
Take a Photo Walk of The Shambles
Of course, you can’t go to York without visiting The Shambles. With buildings dating back to the 14th century, this is a tiny corner of the world that begs to be experienced.
The first day I woke to flurries, so I grabbed my camera and was out the door at first light. It was eerily quiet and atmospheric. Early morning, when it is unpopulated, you’re afforded a pensive space to wander.
With few if any people, its the ideal time for mindful photography too!
Take a Mindful Stroll around York Minster
No trip to York would be complete without a visit to The York Minster Cathedral. As the largest Gothic Cathedral in Northern Europe, it’s something to behold…both inside and out.
But, don’t just visit the cathedral. Take a mindful and relaxing stroll around the entire perimeter.
Why? Well, because one of the best ways to appreciate the grandeur is to view it from each side, so you can see the medieval stonework from every angle.
The scale in relationship to the adjacent buildings is impressive and there are more than a few other architectural gems along the way.
Escape with a Day Trip to The Countryside
York is near some of the most beautiful countryside in England. So, why not take advantage of the outdoors and spend time rejuvenating your mind & body in nature?
This trip I didn’t venture out of the city, but I have in the past, and it was memorable!
For my money, both The North York Moors National Park and The Yorkshire Dales are ideal countryside spaces to explore.
Here you’ll find nature at its finest, especially in the summer when the purple heather is in bloom. It’s magical!
Enjoy The Views at Dyls Cafe
The views inside and out are something to really be appreciated at Dyls Cafe!
This family owned cafe with a passion for all things local & fresh, making it my kind of place. With a vegetarian menu and locally roasted coffee it landed atop my pre-trip research bucket list. It’s enviable location next to The River Ouse on The Skeldergate Bridge also makes is popular with locals.
Inside is quirky and atmospheric and the outdoor terrace is heated year round. The staff told me taking in the sunset is quite lovely too, maybe next time York, maybe next time!
Savor Lunch at Brew & Brownie
Brew & Brownie kept appearing in my research. Since good coffee is a must for my morning travel routine, this went on the coffee shop list.
I stopped the first day for afternoon coffee and the food looked so good, I went back the second day for lunch.
As it turns out, my hunch was spot on. The avocado toast with feta was delicious and the coffee turned out to be my favorite of the four spots I visited in York!
Only a few minutes walk from York Minster, there are two locations only doors apart on Museum Street. Honestly, you can’t miss the fresh baked treats in the window. They use local products as much as possible, and I am always in for supporting independent establishments that support the community.
Relax with Afternoon Tea at Bettys
Sometimes you just need to slow down the pace and an afternoon tea sure fits the bill.
My first time to Betty’s was some years ago in Harrogate and I instantly fell in love with the Yu Luo White Tea. So for me, this was a not to be missed stop in York. As well as, it was a welcome an opportunity to relax.
Although it was rainy outside, I was warm and cozy inside, relaxing with my cup of tea and tasty scone. It just goes to show you that the experience of eating can be every bit as memorable as the taste!
York is a historic place full of engaging experiences and worthy of stop on your next trip to England. Surely, adding a a few wellness things to do in York only sweetens the deal! Certainly, your mind & body will thank you!
until the next time…
…live well – travel well- be well
More Inspiration…
- The Curious Snickelways of York: A Photo Walk
- Glasgow: 10 Wellness Inspired Things to Do
- London: A Vibrant Wellness Destination
- A Relaxing Weekend in Mawgan Porth Cornwall
- 10 Fantastic Foodie Things to Do in Bath
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