Ever thought of a romantic getaway to York? Yes, you read that right, Yorkshire! Hop on the LNER from London Kings Cross, and step off the train to a city full of culture, great food, plus lots of alcohol! There are too many things to do for just a day trip, with museums and galleries showcasing LGBT artists, craft beer bars, and Instagram-able cafes. For the Harry Potter fans, this is where the magic is, quite literally!
FOOD, GLORIOUS FOOD
York is not one to be missed for food lovers. Restaurants, food vans, cafes, and coffee shops need a dedicated section for this one. You’ll never be hungry during your visit from vegan restaurants, rainbow bagels, and wood-fired pizza.
The Orchid Vegan Restaurant: For you, or the vegan in your life, or perhaps you’re open to trying something new – this is the place to eat! With an Asian-fusion-style menu, you’ll be amazed at what’s on offer!
YO-31 Wood-Fired Pizza Co: Grab a slice from this beautiful food truck with an authentic wood-fired oven. Take it with you whilst you stroll through the medieval-style streets and marvel at the architecture around you.
Plush Café: What’s more queer than eating a rainbow bagel? This cafe is a must-have on your food tour around York, not only does it look good, it tastes good too!
ART & CULTURE IN YORK
For the fans of art or history, you’re in luck when it comes to York! With very affordable (or free) museums and galleries to visit, you’ll be able to immerse yourself in the history and culture of York. The York Art Gallery has created a new exhibit named, Queering the Burton. Created for LGBT History Month, it aims to broaden stories within York Art Galleries’ art collections, but spotlighting the queer history of the people behind the paintings.
Other recommendations:
Viking Centre
CRAFT BEER, STRONG DRINKS & MOCKTAILS
Craft beer connoisseur, colourful cocktail-lover, or alcohol-free mocktail drinker, we sampled some of the best places to drink in York City Centre.
Evil Eye: Evil Eye calls themselves, ‘home of the bizarre, weird and wonderful’ and they’re not wrong. All of their cocktails & mocktails are made with fresh ingredients and put together in front of your eyes. Whether you want a fun drink or to sing your heart out on one of their weekly karaoke nights, this cocktail bar is for you.
House of the Trembling Madness: This speakeasy-esqe bar will amaze! Upon opening the doors you’re met with a shop, full of a wide range of alcohol, beers, gins, wines, spirits – where’s the bar? To the left, you’ll see some seemingly boring-looking stairs, head up and find a small, unique bar.
Pivni: Located next to the iconic Shambles market sits a craft beer treasure. This 16th-century three-storey free house is the perfect place to sit back, unwind and sample the drinks they have on offer.
THINGS TO DO IN YORK
So you’ve been to the museums, you are full of all the great food and slightly tipsy from the bars… what next?
The Ghost Bus Tours: Fan of the supernatural and all things spooky? This sightseeing tour bus will take you to all the top attractions of York including York Minster, Treasurer House, and Clifford’s Tower all whilst learning about the haunted history contained within.
Grand Opera House: A comedy fan, musical theatre, or fan of a good whodunnit? See what’s on at the Grand Opera House, and enjoy a few hours of entertainment. Built in 1902, this is a theatre full of rich history.
The Shambles & Harry Potter: Ever wanted to see Diagon Alley in real life? You can in York! The Shambles is a historic street wedged in-between 14th-century buildings, making it look like it’s from a Harry Potter movie. With magical-themed shops, cafes, and crazy golf, if you’re a fan of the Wizarding World, what are you waiting for?
If you’re on the lookout for more queer-friendly travel ideas and staycations in the UK, check out our other articles here:
Summer Staycations for your Bank Holiday
Our Guide to Scotland’s Hottest Staycation
Let us know where we should visit next!
Cheers! Team Nonchalant x
Last Updated on 1st June 2023 by Nonchalant Magazine
I am a 28 year old film buff with an MA in Screenwriting. I live in Somerset with my fiancée and two cats. In my spare time I garden, do DIY, and freelance work for a local craft beer company.
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