City Sightseeing Tour of York

Journey Overview

Embarking on the City Sightseeing bus in York promises an enriching journey through the city’s history, culture, and scenic beauty, with stops at some of its most iconic landmarks and attractions. During the summer the tour guides paint a colourful picture of York over the last 2000 years and bring their own unique knowledge to the tours. There’s multi-language recorded commentary too.

The tour begins at York Railway station and then stop at Memorial Gardens, a serene green space adorned with floral displays and statues, providing a moment of reflection and remembrance. From here, passengers can hop off at Museum Gardens, home to the ruins of St Mary’s Abbey and the Yorkshire Museum, where they can delve into the city’s rich archaeological and natural history.

As the bus continues along its route, passengers are treated to views of Exhibition Square, a bustling hub of cultural activity, and Gillygate, a charming street lined with shops and cafes. Monk Bar, one of York’s medieval gateways, looms into view, offering a glimpse into the city’s storied past.

Traversing Foss Bank, customers can admire scenic views of the River Foss and the surrounding countryside, before arriving at Peasholme Green, a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city, perfect for a leisurely stroll or picnic.

The tour then passes Stonebow, a historic street lined with elegant Georgian buildings, before arriving at Clifford Tower, the highest point in the city and where customers can disembark to explore the imposing Norman fortress and enjoy panoramic views of the city.

Continuing on, the bus heads towards Walmgate Bar, one of York’s ancient gateways, offering passengers a glimpse of the city’s medieval walls and picturesque streetscapes. The Barbican Centre, located nearby, hosts a variety of cultural events and exhibitions, providing an opportunity for cultural enrichment.

Fishergate showcases York’s bustling city centre, with its vibrant shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Bishopthorpe Road, known for its eclectic mix of independent shops and eateries, offers a charming contrast to the city’s historic landmarks.

Further along the route, passengers can catch a glimpse of the excitement of York Racecourse and The Winning Post before enjoying scenic views of Mount Vale and The Mount. Blossom Street provides a glimpse into York’s vibrant residential neighbourhoods before the tour concludes at York Railway Station.

A Fab Day Out!

Exploring York on the City Sightseeing bus provides an excellent opportunity to visit some of the city’s most iconic landmarks and attractions. Here’s a suggested itinerary for places to get off and explore along the route:

1. Memorial Gardens: Walk a few yards from York Railway Station and maybe enjoy some time at Memorial Gardens before boarding the journey here, taking a moment to appreciate the tranquil green space and pay respects at the War Memorial.
2. Museum Gardens: Disembark here to explore the beautiful gardens, the ruins of St Mary’s Abbey, and the Yorkshire Museum, where you can delve into the city’s rich history and archaeological treasures.
3. Clifford Tower: Hop off here to explore this iconic Norman fortress and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the top.
4. Monk Bar: Get off at this medieval gateway to learn about York’s ancient defenses and stroll along the city walls.
5. The Shambles (via Stonebow): Take a short walk from Stonebow to explore The Shambles, one of the best-preserved medieval streets in Europe, filled with timber-framed buildings housing shops and cafes.
6. York Minster (via Exhibition Square): Disembark at Exhibition Square for easy access to York Minster, one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Northern Europe. Explore its stunning architecture, intricate stained glass windows, and the interactive Undercroft Museum.
7. Fishergate and Bishopthorpe Road: Get off here to explore York’s vibrant city center, with its bustling shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Don’t miss the eclectic mix of independent shops and eateries on Bishopthorpe Road.
8. The Winning Post and York Racecourse: Hop off here to experience the excitement of horse racing at York Racecourse and explore the area’s scenic surroundings.
9. York Railway Station: End your journey here, where you can easily catch trains to other destinations or continue exploring the city’s attractions on foot, including over the footbridge to the world-famous National Railway Museum.