Top Places to Visit in York

Famous for its exquisite architecture, Gothic cathedral and tangle of quaint cobbled streets, historic York is the perfect setting for a romantic getaway. But it’s not all about old buildings and history lessons, the city also has many surprises in store as vibrant cafés, colourful street entertainers and boutique shopping lie waiting to be discovered. We’ve picked a few of our personal favourites to get you off to a flying start…
 
York Minster




 
From the moment you enter the city walls, you’ll be captivated by the magnificence of your surroundings. And if there’s one building that epitomises the majesty of York, then it has to be York Minster – an absolute MUST SEE! One of the largest cathedrals in Europe, you and your partner can enjoy the impressive stone architecture from the outside (accompanied by an ice cream is perfect) or explore the beautiful interior features and atmospheric underground chambers. Bathed in light from the exquisite stained-glass windows, you’ll want to get married there and then! Just be sure to check what’s on before you visit though as someone may have beaten you to it...

Betty's Tea Rooms

If you’re feeling a little peckish, then it HAS to be Betty’s Tea Room – it’s a Yorkshire institution, don’t you know! Built in 1936 and inspired by the interior design of the Queen Mary cruise liner, this art deco delight is a feast for the eyes and the taste buds. Share an Afternoon Tea for two downstairs and you’ll be transported back to the elegance of days-gone-by, as you nibble on delicate sandwiches and delicious sweet treats. Be warned, there’s usually a queue to the front door so allow plenty of time to stand around outside and cuddle.
 
York Dungeon
 
If a 70-minute journey through 2000 years of York’s murky and gruesome history sounds like a good way to spend your time, then look no further than the awesome York Dungeon! Combining a cast of theatrical actors, gory special effects, stages and some grim scenes, this exciting walkthrough experience is truly unique. It’s fantastic fun and a tad scary at times, so make sure you’re ready to protect your other half from the sinister characters that lurk in the dungeon – maybe not the place for a first date!
 
Rowntree Park & Reading Cafe
 
Outside of the city walls, York is a treasure trove of green, open spaces and parks. And if you’re looking for a romantic picnic setting or a book club meeting for two, then there’s no better place than Rowntree Park. A short walk from the city centre and on the banks of the River Ouse, this inspiring 30 acre park is open every day of the year apart from Christmas Day. Take a stroll through the woodland walks and tree trails or set up camp (not literally) on the banks of the ornamental lake and feed the ducks. On the other side of the water is the fantastic Rowntree Park Reading Café where you can borrow from a selection of 1,000 books whilst enjoying a lovely cuppa Yorkshire tea!

Bars & Restaurants
With a fantastic array of bars and eateries, from international cuisines to local delicacies, dining out in York is a gastronomic delight! Whether you’re looking to find that perfect first date venue or just sample something different, you won’t be disappointed. Top of our list is The Blue Bicycle, located just through The Shambles from the city centre. Serving award-winning food with an emphasis on fresh fish dishes, this is high quality dining in a relaxed and comfortable environment. Wander downstairs into the converted cellar and you’ll see images of the previous occupants who plied their trade when it was a turn of the century brothel! Enjoy a candlelit romantic dinner in the private vaulted booths - which are made from beds, of course - and work your way through the impressive wine list... what more could you want?!
 
If you're looking for a snazzy bar/restaurant/beer garden, that's a little different from the norm, then enter the colourful world of mysticism and travel inside the Evil Eye Lounge! From the outside, it might look like a quirky Bargain Booze (which it kind of is) but once inside, you'll be transported to a South American cafe-lounge style bar, serving beautiful Asian dishes (cool, right?) Relax in one of the wooden beds overlooking Stonegate or lounge around in the cinema room until you forget the outside world completely. Johnny Depp himself was a regular whilst filming Charlie and the Chocolate Factory... so if it's good enough for Mr. Wonka...
Here at Flirtify, we're all for the unique and different, so we wouldn't usually suggest an Italian restaurant chain. But a special mention has to go to ASK in York, purely based on location alone. Of course the food and service is excellent, but it's the grandeur of the setting which will keep you and your date chatting for ages! Situated in the old Assembly Rooms on Blake Street, the original architecture of high ceilings, impressive stone columns and stunning chandeliers have largely been untouched – just count how many times you say, “wow!”




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