Latest news with #VisitYork
Daily Mirror
14-05-2025
- Daily Mirror
'Fairytale' city is also one of the 'cheapest' holiday locations in the UK
Experts from Holiday Extras named a 'fairytale' UK city as one of the most affordable destinations for a staycation in 2024 - and Brits can even bag bargain hotel stays Nestled within ancient city walls, historic York is renowned for its Roman heritage, eerie encounters, and charming uneven Shambles. According to experts from Holiday Extras, it's a city that seems like it could be plucked straight from the "pages of a dark fairytale", yet it's also a place where Brits can enjoy a budget-friendly city break this year. York offers a wide range of options, including high-end hotels and upscale restaurants. However, there are opportunities to cut back on expenses. The city is easily accessible by train, thanks to the bustling York station. Booking in advance or using a railcard can reduce costs, with train fares available for as little as £30. In terms of budget accommodations, booking in advance and choosing off-peak times can result in significant savings. Most hotels operate on a supply-and-demand basis, which means they increase prices during peak times. Budget-friendly hotels such as Premier Inn offer affordable options in the city. Premier Inn has six locations that range from the city centre to the outskirts of York, reports the Express. Based on a quick search, Premier Inn's York City (Blossom St North) hotel has availability in September, with approximately £67 per night. If two people share a room the cost would be £33.5 per person per night. York boasts a treasure trove of B&Bs, ranging from chic boutique stays to wallet-friendly accommodations. Kayak's latest figures reveal that some of the most affordable B&Bs can be found from just £52 per night. The city is steeped in history, offering a plethora of ancient sites and museums at no cost. The National Railway Museum, delving into York's railway heritage, welcomes visitors free of charge – an ideal outing for families. Art enthusiasts will be thrilled to discover that York Art Gallery's permanent collections are accessible without an entry fee, including two galleries dedicated to the Centre of Ceramic Art (CoCA). Behind the gallery, guests can meander through the Artists Garden and Edible Wood, then venture out to the stunning York Museum Gardens. York is dotted with numerous medieval churches throughout its centre, many open for daytime exploration. Visit York recommends St Michael le Belfrey in the heart of the city and Holy Trinity, nestled behind Goodramgate's shops in a verdant retreat. For those keen on discovering York's narrative on foot, Visit York's Visitor Information Centre provides a variety of self-guided walking tours. "Many cover hidden histories and niche interests in the city and are perfect for experiencing the city in a different light at your own pace," says Visit York.
Yahoo
21-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
First wizard festival set to cast a magical spell over York in May
York is set to stage its first-ever Wizard festival later in the spring. The wizard idea came from Dan Wood, aka Phoenix the Red, owner of the award-winning The Wizard Walk of York. WizardFest will take place during Saturday May 24 to Monday the 26th and has the support of Visit York, Make it York, and many local businesses. Dan said: 'Since announcing WizardFest I've had lots of exciting companies come forward, for an event that will appeal to wizard fans of all ages. RECOMMENDED READING: Wizard of York creates new ice cream with Loopy Scoops Four York businesses win big at VisitEngland awards Take a wizard walk in York "We're flying the flag for all things magical in this enchanting city, and of course we'll be running plenty of extra Wizard Walks to meet demand!' The Little Vikings guide will also promote the event. Polly Bennett from Little Vikings said: 'This magical event is the perfect opportunity for families to explore the enchanting experiences York has to offer. We're thrilled to be supporting it!' Fancy dress time! (Image: Pic supplied) Some events are still to be confirmed, but so far there are extra Wizard Walks, Harry Potter films at City Screen, Lego workshops with The Brick Box, A Kind of Magic sessions from Story Craft Theatre, Witch and Wizard crafts with Avocado Events, bird of prey experiences, dragon meet-and-greets and more. The Cat Gallery is running a competition to add to their regular Cat Trail, to which will be added a permanent Wizard of York cat. A competition will be held to name the magical mog. A Magical Night Market will take place on the evening of Monday the 26th. Interested traders can email York-markets@ to book a stall. The free Owl Trail returns to Shambles Market, and a Wizard Activity Area will appear on Parliament Street. Promised are majestic birds of prey to meet, face painting, wizard props and more. Themed food and drink specials are also planned including Wizard Afternoon Teas at Plush Café, Beastly Burgers from Baby Boys Burgers at Spark:York and Phoenix cocktails and mocktails at Ate O' Clock too. In addition, Florion Poirot, Monk Bar Chocolatiers and the Church Street ice cream parlour also has wizard related specials. Save the date! (Image: Pic supplied) Many local shops will offer discounts to visitors dressed as wizards. The Puzzling World of Professor Kettlestring has a new quest to lift the curse of dark wizard Mortius Darktrix. Renowned artist Lincoln Lightfoot is also creating an exclusive Wizard of York print. The festival will culminate in a fancy dress parade on Monday 26th May at 3pm from St. Helen's Square, with a contest for Best Dressed Witch or Wizard. Prizes include a Phoenix Lego set and family Wizard Walk tickets, dragon hatchlings from The Society of Alchemists and magical goody bags from The Shop That Must Not Be Named. Details can be found at Wizard fans are advised to check that closer to the event, as the programme is subject to change. Fans cans also follow for WizardFest updates and booking links, as many activities are bookable, with tickets expected to if by magic!
