Tourists urged to stay away from York – and visit online instead

Visitors are being urged to postpone their trips to York – and explore the city online instead.

City of York Council is encouraging people who have booked a visit to delay it instead – so that healthcare is available for residents who may need to access it and to ease pressure on vital services.

The news comes as city centre venues and businesses close amid the coronavirus outbreak.

Cllr Darryl Smalley, executive member for tourism, said:

• It is imperative that we do what we can to protect the health and safety of residents.

  Part of this is asking people that were planning a trip to York, to instead take a tour of our city online from their homes.

  Take a virtual stroll down Shambles by shopping online, see York’s past by looking at Explore’s image archive and live stream our stunning performers and artists from the comfort of your home.

He added: “We welcome 8.2m visitors a year in York, and we know people across the UK had plans to visit us in the coming weeks.

“For our local healthcare system and the wellbeing of our residents, please put your trip to York on hold.”

The council is offering support for residents during the crisis – email [email protected], or telephone 01904 551550.