21 romantic things to do in York
If you’re looking for romantic things to do in York this Valentines Day – or any other day of the year – this article is for you.
One of the reasons I love York so much is its romantic charm. My husband and I have had many date nights (and some rare date days!) in our city so I know the best date ideas York has to offer.
York’s cobbled streets, historic sites, amazing architecture and plethora of bars and restaurants effortlessly combine to create a perfect destination for couples on a romantic getaway. Plus, as getting around York is quick and easy, you can spend more time concentrating on each other.
There are enchanting and romantic things to do in York for couples whatever your budget may be. In addition, there is a fantastic selection of romantic hotels in York to choose from as well as a wide selection of romantic restaurants in York.
Romantic things to do in York for couples
1. Go for a romantic stroll along York City Walls
Enjoy a leisurely walk along York’s medieval city walls (the longest city walls in England) which offer breath taking views of the city and its historic architecture. The walls provide an intimate atmosphere away from the busy city centre and are a picturesque backdrop for romantic photos.
A full circuit of the walls takes around 2 hours. However, as the walls are free to access or exit from any of the four medieval gateways, you can do as much or as little of the walls as you like.
In my opinion, walking the walls is one of the best free things to do in York as well as one of the most romantic things to in York for couples.
I think the most romantic time of the day is sunset (just before the walls close) when the city lights start to come on.
Opening hours – Everyday from dawn till dusk. Note that the walls are closed in icy weather.
👉 Local tip – If you only have time for a short section of the walls, walk from Monk Bar to Bootham Bar. It winds behind York Minster and I think its the most scenic part of the walls.
2. Cruise the Ouse
The River Ouse winds its way through the heart of York, and a boat cruise offers a serene and romantic escape from the busy city centre.
Couples can take a short 45 minute sightseeing cruise on the river with City Cruises. The trip has full commentary and the boats offer both indoor and outdoor seating.
City Cruises also offer evening cruises for couples including dinner, a fish and chip supper cruise or a picnic cruise.
Opening hours – Boats depart everyday from King’s Staith Landing at 10:30 am, 12:00 pm, 1:30 pm and 3:00 pm.
Boats depart from Lendal Bridge Landing at 10:40 am, 12:10 pm, 1:40 pm and 3:10 pm.
Cost – Adult £13. Seasonal and special cruise costs vary.
3. Cruise the Ouse as a couple
You can also hire your own little red boat and drive your partner up and down the Ouse.
The self-hire slow moving boats are easy to drive. They take a maximum of 8 passengers so there will be plenty of room for just two of you. You can book your private boat from the City Cruises website.
Note – the boats are small and if you are tall you will find it difficult to squeeze into the drivers seat. My husband did!
Opening hours – Every day from mid February to mid November. Pre- booking advised.
Cost – Hire prices start at £35 for one hour hire.
4. Visit York Minster at sunset
York Minster is awe inspiring at anytime of the day but at sunset, the cathedral is bathed in the warm hues. This ‘golden hour’ changes the creamy York stone of the Minster into glowing amber.
Inside the cathedral, the intricate stained glass windows and ornate architecture provide a romantic backdrop. Don’t miss the Great East Window which is the largest expanse of stained glass anywhere in the world.
I also recommend visiting the Chapter House inside the cathedral. It contains the seats of the bishops of Yorkshire and looks like something from a fairy tale.
If you are visiting York at Christmas, you are in for a treat as the Minster hosts a Christmas tree festival. There are romantic twinkling lights everywhere you look.
Opening hours – Monday – Saturday 9.30 am to 4 pm, Sunday 12.45 pm to 3.15 pm. Sightseeing is not possible during services.
Cost – £16 adults.
👉 Local tip – If you don’t want to join one of the free guided group tours, visit the York Minster website and download one of its free trails in advance of your visit. You can also pre book fee paying ‘hidden tours’ to closed off parts of York Minster.
5. Climb York Minster’s Central Tower
If you’re looking for the best unique date ideas York has to offer, how about climbing the 275 steps of the Minster’s central tower for a bird’s eye view of York city centre?
It is the highest point in York city centre so you can enjoy uninterrupted 360 degree views. One of the interesting facts about York is that no other building inside the city walls is allowed to be taller than York Minster.
You will feel as if you are stepping back in time climbing the narrow, winding stone steps to reach the top of the tower. At the top, the views of York city centre are spectacular. Plus, you can get up close to some amazing stone sculptures.
I think it is one of the most romantic places in York, especially at dusk.
Opening hours – Same as York Minster. Tower trips run at specific times during the day and can be booked once inside York Minster.
Cost – Combined York Minster and tower tickets cost £22. Note that the tower is closed in bad weather.
6. Explore The Shambles
The Shambles is one of the most famous streets in York – and its most romantic.
Wander hand-in-hand along this narrow, cobblestone street lined with timber-framed buildings dating back to the medieval period.
The charming atmosphere, quaint shops, and overhanging buildings create an enchanting setting, especially at night or early in the morning when The Shambles is at its quietest.
7. York Art Gallery
I’ve chosen York art gallery as one of the most romantic places in York to visit as it is usually quiet and you will never have to queue to get in (unlike some other York attractions). Plus, it’s free to enter (you only have to pay for special exhibitions).
Situated opposite Bootham Bar, York Art Gallery oozes romantic charm. I always find the elegant building is an oasis of calm!
There are several galleries to visit, an excellent cafe and a gift shop.
Opening hours – Wednesday to Sunday, 10 am – 5 pm.
👉 Local tip – After visiting the gallery, pop into the small Edible Wood behind the gallery. It is one of York’s hidden gems and is always quiet.
8. Tour a historic house
York has a range of historic houses to visit including the Victorian era Mansion House and the medieval Barley Hall. However, for couples on a romantic getaway, I recommend visiting the Treasurers House or the Georgian era Fairfax House.
The Treasurers House lies behind York Minster, hidden from the main street. It is an eclectic 20th National Trust property which was built as a mix of Victorian and medieval styles. Its basement is said to be haunted by the marching ghosts of a Roman legion!
Plus, the scones at its cafes have been voted the best scones of all the National Trust properties in England.
The pink Fairfax House is a lavishly decorated Georgian house. It offers an intimate and historically accurate glimpse into life in York in Georgian times. I think the highlight are its bedrooms and basement kitchen.
Opening hours – Treasurers House (Minster Yard, YO1 7JL). Seasonal opening hours apply so check website in advance of your visit.
Fairfax House (Castlegate, YO1 9RN). Monday – Sunday, 10.30 am to 4.30 pm.
Cost – Treasurers House £9.50 pp, free to National Trust members.
Fairfax House £9.00 pp.
9. Join a cooking workshop at The Grand Cookery School
Ever heard that the way to a man’s/woman’s heart is through their stomach? If you’re looking for the best first date ideas York has to offer, check out the cookery school at the 5 star Grand Hotel. I promise you, it’s something special.
Couples can join a high quality half or full day cooking workshop in the Grand’s purpose built cookery school. You will learn how to cook your chosen dish and receive a complimentary apron.
Once you’ve cooked your meal, you will sit in the cookery schools’ own dining room to enjoy your food.
You will have fun but also learn a new skill that you can recreate at home on another date night. Cooking together is also a great way to spend quality time with your partner.
Workshop options range from pork pies and pasta to curry, tapas, sushi and middle eastern cuisine so there is something for everyone.
Check out the latest timetable for classes here.
Opening hours – Morning, afternoon or full day classes are available but must be pre-booked in advance.
Cost – Prices start from £64 per person for a half day class.
10. Indulge in chocolate making workshop at York Cocoa House
York has a long history of chocolate making and is the original home of the Yorkie Bar and Terry’s Chocolate Orange.
York Cocoa House continues this tradition today. The shop and cafe also boasts a chocolate workshop (York Cocoa Works) which hosts a range of short and long courses.
The best option for couples on a romantic weekend break in York, is the chocolate bar workshop.
This 1.5 hour class teaches you how to make and decorate your own 500g bar of chocolate. I thought it was the best chocolate I had ever tasted.
Opening hours – Everyday 9 am – 5.30 pm. Courses must be booked online in advance.
Cost – £22.50
11. Enjoy a relaxing spa day
York is fortunate to have several high end hotels, many of which offering spa experiences for couples.
My personal favourite is the basement spa in the 5 star Grand Hotel. My husband booked it for me for my birthday and it was heavenly!
The Grand Hotel spa features a 14 metre swimming pool, a spa whirlpool, an aromatic steam room, a Nordic dry sauna, a relaxation lounge and gym. There are treatments room offering massages, holistic therapies and beauty treatments.
If you really want to treat your loved one this Valentines Day in York, this is the place to do it. A 3.5 hour spa pass costs from £44 pp.
Other city centre options include the spa at The Principal Hotel next to York rail station. It boasts a heated indoor swimming pool, a sauna, steam room, jacuzzi, gym and beauty treatments. Day passes cost just £15 pp.
The spa at Hotel No.1 has special couples therapy rooms where you can enjoy a a side-by-side back, shoulder and neck massage. This is followed by a bespoke mini facial, with a soothing face, neck, shoulder, and scalp massage.
A 60 minute ‘Time Together’ package cost £230 per couple.
12. See the best panoramic views in York
In addition to the incredible view from the top of York Minster, there are two other scenic viewpoints I recommend for couples in York.
The first is from the top of Clifford’s Tower which is the remains of a Norman keep situated in the centre of York.
Climb the steep set of entrance stairs to the exbibits inside the tower to discover what life was like in Norman times. After this you can climb the stairs up to the circular rooftop for a fantastic 360 degree view of York.
The second view I recommend is the whole city view from the Sora Bar terrace on top of the Malmaison Hotel on Rougier Street. It’s one of the most romantic restaurants in York.
The bar is open to non residents and is free to enter. It’s a great spot for a romantic night time cocktail overlooking the twinkly lights of York at night; romantic York at its best!
👉 Local tip – Other great views in York include the view of the Minster from the third floor cafe of Marks and Spencers on Parliament Street. One of my favourite views is from the third floor of the The Market Cat pub in The Shambles Market.
Romantic places to eat in York for couples
13. Afternoon Tea at Betty’s Tearoom
6-8 St. Helen’s Square, YO1 8QP
Indulge in a traditional afternoon tea at Betty’s Tearoom, a beloved 100 year old York institution.
With its elegant art deco style decor, classical pianist, china crockery and uniformed staff, savoring afternoon tea together becomes a truly romantic experience.
I guarantee the timeless charm of Betty’s Tearoom will add a touch of sophistication to your romantic outing. For the most romantic setting, try to get a seat on the ground floor overlooking the square.
👉 Local tip – There is always a queue to get into Betty’s no matter what the day, time or weather is! If you are short on time, pay the extra and pre-book an afternoon tea in the Belmont Room.
Opening hours – Monday to Friday 9 am -5:30 pm, Saturday 8:30 am – 6 pm, Sunday 9 am –5:30 pm.
Cost – Yorkshire Cream Tea £14.95, Afternoon tea with Prosecco £34.95, pre-bookable afternoon tea £39.95.
14. Enjoy an intimate picnic for two in Museum Gardens
A much cheaper but equally as romantic option is a picnic for two in the tranquillity of Museum Gardens. These beautifully landscaped gardens have plenty of space so you can easily find a quiet leafy corner for a picnic.
The gardens are also home to the 12th century ruins of St. Mary’s Abbey, the 15th century Hospitium (which hosts lots of weddings in York) and the Yorkshire Museum. You can also visit the Roman era Multiangular tower and the Edible Wood, packed with edible (and poisonous plants).
Pick up a picnic lunch and enjoy a leisurely afternoon surrounded by lush greenery, fragrant flowers, and the historical sites of this lovely riverside garden. It’s ideal if you are visiting York on a budget.
👉 Local tip – You can pick up picnic groceries from Sainsburys on Davygate, Tesco’s on Skeldergate or from Marks and Spencers on Parliament Street. However, York is packed with quality bakeries. My favourites are Cooplands and Thomas The Bakers.
15. Wine tasting at Pairings Wine Bar
28 Castlegate, YO1 9RP
I think one of the most romantic restaurants in York for both setting and food is Pairings. This award-winning wine bar is on Castlegate opposite Fairfax House.
In addition to an excellent food and drink menu, Pairings offers tasting experiences hosted by their knowledgeable sommeliers. You will receive delicious sharing platters of cheese, olives and meats perfectly paired with fine wines. I guarantee you will learn something as well as tantalise your taste buds.
Don’t worry if wine is not your favoured drink, you can also do gin tasting with your platters.
Opening hours – Sunday to Thursday 12 pm – 11 pm| Friday and Saturday 11 am – 12 am.
Cost – Wine or gin tasting £35 pp. Wine and food pairing £49 pp. Pre-booking is essential.
16. The Judges Lodging
9 Lendal, YO1 8AQ
This elegant Grade 1 listed townhouse hotel and restaurant has made this list because I think it offers everything couples want on a night out.
In the summer, there is a convivial outdoor courtyard for drinkers. If you’re visiting York in winter, the basement bar is full of secluded nooks with leather sofas.
The 1711 restaurant on the first floor is the epitome of fine dining but at a reasonable cost. You will feel as if you are in your own stately home in the elegant, historic surroundings. Plus, you get a great night time view of an illuminated York Minster.
Opening hours – Every day till late.
Cost – Main courses start from £26. Check the full menu here.
17. Dine by the river
What’s more romantic than riverside dining? For the best riverside dining in York, check out The Star In The City next to Lendal Bridge.
The award winning Brasserie style restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner in a gorgeous riverside setting. It also has a large al fresco dining deck overlooking the river.
If you pop in for breakfast, I recommend the ‘breakfast in a bun’ with sausage.
Opening hours – Monday to Thursday 11.00 am – 11.00 pm, Friday and Saturday 9.30 am -midnight, Sunday 9.30 am – 10.00 pm.
Cost – Main courses start from £24. Check out the range of menus here.
Romantic things to do in York for couples at night
17. Cosy up at the cinema
York has two city centre cinemas to choose from, both of which offer something special.
York Picturehouse on Coney Street has several screens, an excellent cafe and bar plus a basement comedy venue.
Everyman on Blossom Street is the ultimate cinema for a date night in York. You can enjoy delicious food and drink served to your seats whilst cuddling up on a velvet sofa to watch a movie.
18. Grab a box in the theatre
York has three theatres – The Barbican, York Theatre Royal and the Grand Opera House – so you are bound to find something you want to see on your romantic getaway in York.
If you want the ultimate indulgence, book a private box at the Grand Opera House or York Theatre Royal.
19. Axe Throwing
57 Goodramgate, YO1 7LS
Fancy a date night with a difference? Go axe throwing at The Hilt.
After a short 10 minute training session from staff, you can compete against each other in a 50 minute long axe throwing tournament.
I know it doesn’t sound romantic but I promise it’s lots of fun and its guaranteed to be a date to remember!
Opening hours – Tuesday to Friday 2 pm – 7 pm, Saturday 11:30 am – 8 pm, Sunday 11:30 am – 4:30 pm. Sessions must be pre-booked within these times.
Cost – £25 per person per session
20. Sample one of York’s 365 pubs and bars
Yes, it’s true; there is a pub or bar in York for everyday of the year. Many of them offer a cosy romantic experience for couples.
For cocktails, try the Evil Eye Lounge on Stonegate (allegedly favoured by Johnny Depp when in town) or the Art Deco Cosy Club on Fossgate.
Pubs with quiet booths for couples include the Golden Slipper on Goodramgate, The Fat Badger next to Bootham Bar and the candle lit Pivni on Patrick Pool.
York’s smallest pub – The Blue Bell on Fossgate – dates back to 1798. It’s the perfect place to cosy up as groups are banned from the tiny pub.
For something entirely different, grab a communal pew at the convivial House of Trembling Madness on Stonegate (not the more contemporary sister pub on Lendal).
The House of Trembling Madness on Stonegate sits above a beer shop of the same name. It is an original medieval ale house; think long benches, real ale and beamed ceilings. It is a unique thing to do in York for couples.
To conclude, the City of York has a timeless, enchanting charm which provides a romantic setting for couples. Whether you are on a date night in York or on a Valentines day trip to York, you will fall in love with the city.
By day you will experience great views, historic and cultural sights plus leafy parks and riverside strolls. By night, you can cosy up in friendly candle lit pubs, drink a cocktail in a rooftop bar or enjoy fine dining.
York has something special to offer every couple looking for a romantic getaway.
