Date ideas in York

York is a historic city with a lot to offer and is an ideal destination for a date, whether it be for a night or an entire day. To help you, we have created a great list of date ideas ranging from the romantic to the cultural, even catering to those wanting an activity to channel their inner competitor. 

1. Explore the world of chocolate

Where better to start your romantic plans than with chocolate? York’s Chocolate Story will take you on a guided tour, detailing the history of chocolate itself from its beginnings in Mexico to how it became an important part of York. You also have the option of rolling your own truffles or making your own chocolate lollipop! And don’t forget to satisfy any cravings you may have on the plentiful gift shop on the way out! 

2. Relax in a cat café

For those wanting a break from the busy streets of York with a hot drink, The Cat’s Whiskers offers you the perfect opportunity to do so in the company of some furry friends. Situated in a Grade II building in the heart of the historical town, this cosy location also is a great place to de-stress while also enjoying locally sourced cakes. 

3. Get creative with pottery painting

Bish Bash Pot on Walmgate offer two-hour sessions where you and your partner can express your creativity by painting one of their pre-made pots. These will then be available to pick up 10-14 days later for you to take home. If you are feeling more adventurous, you can also make your own item by having a go on their pottery wheel. 

4. Learn more about York’s Viking history

It’s almost impossible to visit York without being reminded of its Viking heritage. If you want to learn more, the Jorvik Viking Centre is a must visit, having welcomed more than 20 million visitors since opening. The tour of the museum, filled with interactive elements, also includes a ride experience that will take you through a reconstruction of 10th century York. 

5. Find the perfect souvenir

On a sunny day, there is nothing nicer than simply walking through the historical streets of York, with the Shambles being one of the city’s most famous landmarks. With narrow cobbled streets and roofs within touching distance of each other, it is seen as one of the best-preserved medieval shopping streets in Europe and is the ideal place to find a quirky trinket. It is even believed to be behind the inspiration of Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter series! 

6. Compete in a magical indoor golf experience

The Hole in Wand is a great place for you and your partner to go head-to-head in a competitive (or casual) battle around this nine-hole mini golf course that includes bubbling cauldrons and a giant picture frame. As a bonus, each experience comes with a drinkable magic potion to take home.

7. Discover new music with a drink

The owners of FortyFive Vinyl Café have tried to bring a bit of Nashville to Yorkshire and created a great venue for everyone. Pick a song on their Jukebox and enjoy a cold beer or a grilled cheese sandwich (or both!) before browsing their vast collection of vinyl records. If you want to enjoy a show, they also put on live music nights, claiming to be York’s “biggest small music venue”. 

8. Enjoy a bottomless brunch

While this kind of activity would normally be reserved for the mornings, Lucia Wine Bar in York offers an all-day bottomless brunch experience, meaning you can feel like it’s Saturday morning whenever you want. With two starters, one pinwheel and some dessert to go alongside 90 minutes of free-flowing drinks, it’s the perfect start to the evening for yourself and your partner.

9. Scare yourself with a ghost tour

For those wanting something different, The Original Ghost Walk of York has been around since 1973, which many believe makes it the first of its kind. Promising genuinely mysterious experiences, the tour will allow you and your partner to discover some of the most haunted areas of York, starting every day at 8pm from the Kings Arms Pub. 

10. A spot of afternoon tea

Bettys in York often has a long queue outside of it, and for a very good reason! It is widely seen as the best afternoon tea experience in the city, and we strongly recommend booking in advance to avoid potentially standing in whatever surprise the weather has in store that day. Once in, you’ll be able to savour their great selection of sandwiches and cakes all while being serenaded by a pianist. 

To find out more about our homes available in York, contact us today.