Best things to do in York for couples
With winding cobbled streets to explore and an extensive list of cosy pubs and wine bars, York is a hub for couples looking for a relaxed weekend break away.
Whether you’re an outdoorsy couple, want to unwind at a luxurious spa, or just appreciate some classic Yorkshire pub grub, there’s lots to do and see in this historic city.
To make things a bit easier, we’ve compiled our list of the best things to do in York for couples.
Starting your day off just right
They do say that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and York does it just right. Buttery pastry, a fried egg with the perfect oozy yolk, paired with an expertly made iced coffee.
Heppni Bakeri
New to brace York’s growing breakfast scene, Heppni is a gorgeous bakery and coffee spot. Pastries are fresh, crisp and innovative, and a wander down here is a lovely way to start your morning exploring York.
Owner India is inspired by her travels, with predominantly French and Scandinavian baking techniques used. Heppni is an independent business with a community feel to keep a close eye on, having recently launched comedy nights and a running club.
Old Liquor Store
Next up is a popular city brunch spot, housed within a Grade II former Terry’s chocolate factory. The Old Liquor Store is a neighbourhood restaurant, bar and wine shop.
With Italian influence, they have ricotta pancake stacks, delicious deli sandwiches and accompanying coffees to get your day off to the best start. This historic and delicious visit is one of the tastiest things to do in York for couples.
Even better, if you could go back in the evening to indulge in their Italian small plates.
Exploring the city
Now you’ve properly woken up, it’s time to explore some of our favourite bits of the city.
Walk the York walls
First up, walking the York walls is one of those classic things to do in York for couples.
Travel back to the Roman times as you wander across the York Walls. There are lovely views of the York Minster and surrounding architecture, and the walk itself is relatively short.
We’d recommend grabbing a coffee and your camera to scope out the city in this appealing morning activity.
Unwind at a luxury spa
We’re lucky to have many gorgeous spas in Yorkshire and the surrounding countryside.
However, right in York’s city centre,The Grand covers all bases. With atmospheric spa facilities set in former vaults and award-winning restaurants to suit your taste, you’ll be feeling rejuvenated in no time at all.
A well-deserved night here, or just a spa treatment and spot of afternoon tea makes an indulgent activity, one of the most luxurious things to do in York for couples.
Visit The Shambles and Shambles Market
It wouldn’t really be a visit to York without a wander down the Shambles, now would it?
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The Shambles is a preserved, medieval shopping street, and some properties still have shelves and metal hooks, reminders of when meat was displayed from the open windows. Now, tourists peer into the boutiques, chocolatiers and antique shops which make up this quirky street.
In the neighbouring courtyard, Shambles Market is full of small businesses selling mouthwatering street food, crafts and clothes.
Something new for couples
There are plenty of unique activities for couples to get involved with and discover in York, so why not try something a little different?
Uncover York’s chocolatey history
If you get the timing right, you can still smell tempting chocolate at dawn in the York City Centre. That’s because the city is home to many chocolatiers and confectionary factories which are still running today.
Rowntree’s chocolate factory was founded in York, in 1862 and is best known for supplying the nation with iconic sweets like Quality Street and Smarties.
Now, visitors can explore York’s rich history at York Chocolate Story, or visit one of York’s independent chocolatiers like York Cocoa House, who often hold chocolate workshops and classes for those who want to get stuck in.
Cookery class at The Grand York
The Grand York Cookery School, located within York’s 5-Star Hotel, offers insightful cookery classes catering to all kinds of abilities, tastes and ages. The classes are led by Cookery School Director, Marc Williams.
Whether you are eager to perfect a warming Thai curry, or like to pretend you’re under the watchful eye of Mary Berry in the bake-off tent, there are plenty of classes to choose from.
It’s interactive and a chance to learn something new, making our list as one of the best things to do in York for couples.
Spooky activities
Deemed by many as one of the most haunted Cities in the UK, there’s no shortage of spooky activities to get involved with in York.
The infamous Golden Fleece is a community public house, rumoured to be haunted, but also conveniently with lots of local draft ales and comfort pub food.
As night falls, join a ghost tour or, book yourself into an immersive evening of jump-scares at The York Dungeons.
Where couples should go for a pre-dinner drink
SORA Sky Bar, Malmaison
For sky-high sights of the city, SORA is rooftop Pan- Asian Tapas & Cocktail Bar. With live music on Saturdays and Sundays and the occasional DJ appearance, it’s an exciting drink stop.
There’s an extensive signature cocktail list, blending classic ingredients with the likes of miso, coconut, lychee and yuzu. Sip while you delve into fresh sushi and small plates.
House of Trembling Madness
House of Trembling Madness is a medieval mansion of a pub, with a huge collection of craft beers and a quirky interior.
There are an impressive five floors, with two separate bars and lots of seating – whether it’s a cosy candlelit window table for you and your partner, or if you’re joining a bigger party.
There’s a bustling atmosphere come the weekend that is truly hard to beat.
Evil Eye
Evil Eye is a fun, eclectic cocktail bar – and you will be overwhelmed with drink options. Their team of mixologists are chatty and really do know their stuff.
With shimmery silks, winding staircases and different rooms to explore, Evil Eye offers a truly unique cocktail experience detached from the rest of the city centre.
There’s certainly no shortage of bars to pick from in York.
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Pairings Wine Bar
Sister duo Kelly and Kate opened Pairings in 2015, an award-winning wine bar just down the road from Cliffords Tower.
As expected, their drinks menu is substantial, with sparklings, champagnes, red, white and ports. Pair with a handful of smoked roast nuts, olives or a charcuterie board for the full feast.
For those passionate about their wine, or as a great surprise gift idea, you can book bespoke Sommelier guided wine tastings.
The Churchill Hotel
The Churchill Hotel is a luxury Grade II listed 1827, combining England heritage with contemporary design. Their outside beer garden seats an impressive 80 guests, so you can enjoy the lovely atmosphere and a wood-fired pizza.
Served from 12:30-9 pm, their beer garden menu also features charcuterie platters, with deli cheeses, cold meats and crusty sourdough bread – delicious.
Dining destinations that promise to impress
A busy day of shopping and sightseeing can always build up an appetite, so it’s time to cosy up at one of these top York restaurant picks for couples – whether you’re into tapas for two, a casual Yorkshire gastro-pub or fine dining.
The Fat Badger
The Fat Badger is a homely, welcoming pub just a stone’s throw from the iconic York Minster. With real ales, comforting gastropub classic dishes and what’s said to be the best beer garden in the city, The Fat Badger just had to make our list.
It’s a popular spot for locals and those visiting for a weekend break, with beer & burger Mondays, tapas plates and indulgent desserts.
Bosuns
It’s a little out of the city centre, but if you and your other half are looking for a luxurious date night then Bosuns restaurant at The Riverfront is the place to be. It offers panoramic views of the river and a dining menu that celebrates the best of Yorkshire’s seasonal produce.
Between their standard A-la-Carte offering, sumptuous Sunday lunch, Thursday steak special, or afternoon tea – there is sure to be something for everyone.
You can even hire a boat at Bosuns to take a leisurely outing on the water or extend to stay at one of their gorgeous riverfront glamping pods or cabins.
The Legacy at the Grand, York
Michelin recommended Legacy at The Grand, York offers a modern British and Yorkshire-inspired menu of carefully curated flavours and locally sourced ingredients.
Situated in York’s only 5 star hotel, Legacy lives up to its name and offers award-winning tasting menus with paired wines for couples looking for a fine-dining experience.
The restaurant’s expertly designed interior pays homage to the pioneering spirit of the inspiring engineers and architects of the city’s past.
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Pearly Cow
Pearly Cow celebrates what hails from the dales, moors, vales, and the nearby North Sea. Headed up by exceptional chef Lawrence Yates, Pearly Cow’s small plates and mains are delicious.
Delve into Waterford Farm’s 45-day salt-aged steak, with herb-crusted bone marrow, chimichurri or peppercorn sauce.
The York site was the first Pearly Cow to be born, and with a stylish interior, it has an intimate but elegant date-night feel which makes it perfect for you and your partner. One of Yorkshire’s most romantic restaurants.
Nola
Next we have Nola, a city centre restaurant and jazz bar, which bases itself on Louisiana food and drink. The building used to be an old congregational chapel and is brimming with character.
Expect a 1920s Art Deco theme, candlelit tables and fantastic small sharing plates. From land to sea, there are plenty of options to choose from. Including garlic chilli prawns, pulled pork arancini and oyster mushroom bao.
One of the highlights however has to be their fantastic live jazz musicians, who play every Tuesday and Sunday between 8 pm – 10 pm and Friday between 9 pm -11 pm. It’s got to be one of our favourite things to do in York for couples.
Heading further afield? We have plenty of other events, news and foodie offers to keep you occupied in Yorkshire.
3-Course Sunday Lunch at The York, Sheffield
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Kelu Sheffield Sharing Board and Bottle of Wine
1294, Shalesmoor Sheffield, S3 8UL- Stunning Sardinian Sky Bar
- Brought to you by award-winning Italian restaurant Domo
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£40 Lavang Sheffield Restaurant Voucher
478-480, Fulwood Rd, Sheffield S10 3QD- High-quality Indian cuisine in a stylish and sophisticated setting
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Rum & Mixer Tasting at Liquor Studio, Leeds
156a Lower Briggate, Leeds LS1 6LY- Taste five premium rums paired with mixers to find your new favourite Caribbean-inspired mix.
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Written by
28/01/2025