10 things to do this bank holiday weekend in York
At long last the bank holiday weekend is upon us.
To mark the occasion, we’ve put together a guide full of ideas of things to do during this bank holiday weekend!
All outdoors of course, due to current government guidelines, so lets keep our fingers crossed for some sunshine.
With walks, gardens, and outdoor fun to be had, we hope you find something here to keep you entertained this bank holiday.
Walks and trails
Guardians of York
This exhibition is sure to catch your eye! Eleven key workers from York are the subject of this city-wide art project in collaboration between the York BID and Art of Protest Projects. The portraits are displayed across the city centre with an interactive map available to view on the York BID website. Follow the trail and celebrate the heroes of York.
Little Vikings I Spy Trail
The Little Vikings I Spy Trail is a new family-friendly walking trail around York, which hopes to encourage families to enjoy exploring the streets of the city. There are also 22 weird and wonderful things to spot along the way – can you find them all? For more information and to download your I Spy trail map visit the Little Vikings website, or pick up a map from the Visit York Information Centre.
York Dungeon Walking Tour
Take this walking tour…if you dare! Frighteningly fun and family-friendly, this tour will take you to some of York’s most historic locations by two of the Dungeon’s most iconic characters. The tour runs at various times on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. For more information please visit the York Dungeon website.
Fairy Trail
Something magical has appeared by the Foss…a beautiful Fairy Trail! Fun for all ages, take your time exploring what these magical beings have been up to. It’s aim is to spread a little joy to everyone, so don’t miss your chance to pay these fairies a visit. For more fairy updates, check out their Facebook page.
YorkMix’s Walking Guide to York and Yorkshire
YorkMix have a guide of 60+ walks in York and Yorkshire, so you’ll be spoilt for choice! Whether you like coastal or country walks (or walks with a pub at the end…), there will be something for everyone here. So what are you waiting for? Grab your walking shoes and explore our beautiful surroundings.
Gardens
Stillingfleet Lodge Gardens
This week it’s National Gardening Week (26 April – 2 May), so what better way to celebrate than visiting a local garden? Explore the beautiful gardens and plant nursery at Stillingfleet. There is no need to book in advance for admission to the garden. The tea room will be open for take away only. For more information please visit Stillingfleet Lodge Gardens website.
Castle Howard Gardens
Explore the beautiful gardens of Castle Howard with 1,000 acres of parkland to discover. The Coffee Shop and The Boathouse Café are open daily with a takeaway system, and The Castle Howard Farm Shop and Garden Centre are also open daily. Pre-booking is essential. For more information and to book please visit the Castle Howard website.
Beningbrough Hall Gardens
Explore parkland, woodland and riverside walks with more than 300 years of history. The gardens, restaurant for takeaway drinks, play area and toilets are open. Pre-booking is essential, tickets for timed entry are released weekly. For more information and to book please visit the Beningbrough Hall website.
Outdoor fun
Cowboys! at Murton Park
Dust off those cowboy hats and boots and take a step back in time with Murton Park to see what it was like living in Wild West America! This bank holiday weekend a Western re-enactment group will be showing visitors what it was like to live in a small Wild West town. For more information please visit the Murton Park website.
Or why not head to a beer garden…
Many of us have been taking advantage of the spring sunshine to visit bars and restaurants now that outdoor hospitality has reopened. All over the city too are these beautiful outdoor seating set up for friends and loved ones to meet safely and enjoy a pint or two. Check out our guide here to the best beer gardens in York.