Cheap things to do in York

Discover cheap things to do in York

From terrific discounts to fabulous free activities, York is bustling with things to do to keep your wallet happy. There is something for everyone to enjoy – from wickedly good spooktaculars like the York Dungeon to cultural classics and more, there’s no time like the present to get out and enjoy what the city has to offer.

Be sure to plan ahead for your trip if you can – you can save up to 65% by booking advance train tickets with Northern. Available up to 12 weeks before travelling, and with last-minute bargains available up to 15 minutes before travelling, you can save yourself some dosh to spend on your day out!

Visit National Rail to find out the list of dates currently available for booking our advance tickets. Fancy bringing the whole family along? Our dog-friendly trains ensure no one is left behind on your day out to York.

York museums

A city of history, York is filled with museums perfect for an afternoon of inspiration and information. Are you a lover of the railway? Then take a trip to the National Railway Museum. Right on the doorstep of York train station, entry is free with a voluntary donation. All aboard to immersing yourself in the sights, sounds and smells of train travel through the years. 

Yorkshire Museum is another great choice for a cheap day out whenever you need one, with plenty of regularly changing exhibitions. The museum is free for children living in York and only £4.50 for those not. Learn more about this wonderfully historic city for cheap.

Walks around York

If you’re getting itchy feet and want to explore, take some time to ramble along the York City Walls. The ideal free activity, the historic walls that have stood for nearly 2,000 years offer a different viewpoint of the city along with a healthy dose of fresh air.

Cat lovers unite! Based from The Shambles, The York Cat Trail is the purrfect way to explore the city. Celebrate the history of the York Cat story and enjoy a free trip around the city looking for its resident cats.

The Shambles is a York attraction not to be missed. Originally home to butcher shops with each selling a different meat, The Shambles is allegedly the most visited street in Europe and has a fascinating past. Dating back to the Medieval times, it’s an immersive way to step back in time – just be sure to stop for a cream tea while you’re there!

Ways to buy cheap train tickets

York attractions and culture

If an art gallery is your chosen way to spend a rainy afternoon, then take a trip to York Art Gallery. Open Wednesday-Sunday and offering free entry, explore the many exciting exhibitions the gallery has to offer without breaking the bank.

Fancy a dander in nature and a picnic in the great outdoors? Then York Museum Gardens is the place to go for an afternoon of free fun and adventure. There’s even an interactive Squirrel Trail to follow to find 10 fascinating facts!

All Saints North Street Church offers a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the city's history while still in the warmth. The church dates back to 1089 and is home to a collection of some of the finest 15th-century stained glass in the world. A visit to All Saints Church will complete your York getaway.

Bike routes in York

Did you know you can bring your bike on Northern trains? Take your two-wheeler on your day trip and explore York from the saddle. With plenty of family-friendly cycle routes in and around the city, York is the perfect place to discover by bike. 

Start at Millennium Bridge and explore the York Solar System on the York to Naburn route where you can have fun spotting planets along the way. About 40 minutes each way, the route is approximately 8 miles long and nearly all on cycle paths. 

When you’ve clocked up your miles, you can safely park your bike for free at the train station to carry on with your day – surely it’ll be time for a cream tea!

Activities in York

York is also home to a range of cheap activities that are sure to keep all members of the family entertained for a whole day. How about trying out the crazy golf at York Golf Range? With prices from £3 per child and £4 per adult, crazy golf is a great option for a day of family fun at a low price!

The Hilt allows you to throw axes in a controlled environment so that you can hurl the axes with all your might. A session allowing up to 8 people costs only £25, making this a great option for a party or weekend get together with friends. 

Thought to be the world's first ghost walk, The Original Ghost Walk of York will take you on a journey of history and mystery. Happening every night, there's always a chance to indulge your fearful side with some of the most knowledgable guides around.

Go Do Your Thing for less with Northern and experience everything that York has to offer for cheaper than you may think.