Summer is here in York – have you got any plans? If not then you’re in luck, because we have a fun-packed guide for free and cheap things to do in the city.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day with the family or an activity to do – for as little money as possible – this guide will have all for you.
Free and cheap guide to York
National Railway Museum
A fun free day out for all the family, the National Railway Museum is a staple when you’re visiting York. Explore iconic locomotives such as the Japanese bullet train and the world’s fastest steam locomotive, Mallard – all for free!
- National Railway Museum, Leeman Road, York YO26 4XJ
- More info
York Museum Gardens
A day out in the pleasing scenes and beautiful gardens, the York Museum Gardens is the perfect spot to enjoy a picnic or to enjoy family fun in the sun. The Garden contains fascinating plants and the ruins of St Mary’s Abby, all for free!
- Museum Gardens, York, YO1 7FR
- More info
York Minster
The historic building of York Minster is truly one of a kind and is which some say makes York, York. It contains some of the worlds most beautiful stained glass and has breath-taking artefact’s to view. The visit is free for York residents, however for tourists or anyone who is not a York resident the admissions are £20.00 for and adult and is £0.00 (free) for 0-17yrs.
- York Minster, Deangate, York, YO1 7HH
- More info
Rowntree Park
Off the banks of the River Ouse the park is situated. The park has beautiful scenery and is a vast area and is originally a war memorial and has been known to hold many fantastic events. It was awarded the green flag award in 2004 and is covered in numerous facilities to enjoy activities with a range of people.
- Rowntree Park, Terry Avenue, York, YO23 1JQ
- More info
York Explore Library
Explore library is a place of education and discovery. It contains areas to support families and children’s education along with a cafe to relax after work. The Library also contains archives from its local history and community to enrich in the history of York.
- Library Square, York YO1 7DS
- More info
York City Walls
Want to get your steps in whilst you enjoy a historic view? Then the York walls is the perfect place for you! The long and scenic route contains a number of historic war designs and architectural factors used to make the walls safe and accessible. There are no fees included so a fun day out can be assured.
- York YO1 7LJ
- More info
Homestead Park
Homestead park brings the perfect thing to enjoy a calm day out with the family. It comes completely free with a playground for the kids and toilet facilities. It has extensive ranges of native and ornamental plants/trees and crisp lawns with ponds to encourage wildlife.
- The Homestead, 40 Water End, York, YO30 6WP
- More info
York Cat Trail
A free, fun trail for the young and old, the York Cat Trail brings enjoyment and discovery into people. You can find hidden cats through museums and by historic buildings like Clifford’s tower and the York Minster. The cats are eye-catching and attractive so you can be assured to have a fun packed day out.
- The Homestead, 40 Water End, York, YO30 6WP
- More info
Yorkshire Sculpture Park
A viewing spectacle, Yorkshire Sculpture Park, brings a range of different artists to show their sculptures at the park. It is widely gratified and has a beautiful landscape. The place comes free to anyone under 18 and has free parking for everyone, however it is a paid entry at £9.50 if you’re an adult.
- West Bretton, Wakefield, West Yorkshire, WF4 4LG
- More info
Treasurer’s House Garden
This place is truly a site of beauty and comes completely free to access! The Treasurer’s House garden is a place that is blooming with plants and peacefulness with many spots to relax and enjoy the scenes with incredible architecture and noticeable sculptures.
- Minster Yard, York, North Yorkshire, YO1 7JL
- More info
St Nicks Nature Reserve
The beautiful St Nicks Nature Reserve has the most enhanced and picturesque landscape with a calm and relaxing walk to have with friends and family. The trip would be free and exciting as you can trek to the stones and enjoy lots of activities along the way.
- Rawdon Ave, York YO10 3FW
- More info
Foss Fairy Trail
The crafted trail of Foss Fairy is an extraordinary place and has alt of amazing features in it. The place includes well made houses that the ‘fairies’ live in and hosts a great place for children and families to go to due to its scenic and interactive objects.
- A1036, Heworth, York YO31 8RP
- More info
The Solar System Cycle/Walk Route
The Solar System cycle route is a fun, free day out with the family. it takes you through the planets that surround us and educates us on the location and provides us facts and research while keeping you healthy and commited.
- Sim Balk Ln, Bishopthorpe, York YO24 1LW
- More info