You’ve probably seen the pretty pictures of York Minster and you might even have visited the JORVIK Viking Centre on a school trip, but there’s a lot more to York than just heritage and tourism. If you’d like to know more, click here to read the new Little Vikings Guide to Moving to York for families. It’s an indispensable resource for anyone thinking about moving to York with kids (or starting a family in mind), with guides to family-friendly areas, information on moving in and setting up, and our highlights of the best things to do in and around York with kids.
As a little taster, here are ten reasons why York is a great place to raise a family.
1. York was voted Best Place to Live by the Sunday Times in 2018, was shortlisted again in 2021, and it’s the 8th most popular destination to move to in 2021 according to Rightmove. It’s regularly voted as a top staycation destination, too, so it’s certainly the place to be!
2. It’s a compact city that’s small enough to be walkable and have a good sense of community but large enough to have plenty going on. You won’t be short of something to do, with children or without.
3. There’s always something to do, with festivals and events throughout the year, from the JORVIK Viking Festival to York Ice Trail and the Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta
4. There are oodles of children’s classes and activities to choose from, whatever your little ones are into: dance, drama, languages, swimming, sport, STEM, martial arts – there’s something for everyone. Take a look at our pick of the best classes in York for kids here.
5. There’s lots for adults to enjoy too, from Michelin starred restaurants (Roots York) and amazing street food (Shambles Market) to pubs, wine bars and unique retail experiences, from the amazing independent businesses to York Designer Outlet.
6. It’s a very commutable city, with easy and fast transport links to London, Leeds, Hull, Edinburgh, Harrogate, Newcastle and Middlesborough among other destinations.
7. York has a very good range of state schools for all ages, and outstanding independent schools too (find a selection of York’s independent schools and private nurseries on our website). There are also two excellent universities.
8. There are green spaces galore to enjoy free of charge, from beautiful parks to the lovely riverside. Rowntree Park, Homestead Park and West Bank Park are our favourites.
9. It’s an easy drive to the Yorkshire Dales, Moors and Coast for day trips and staycations.
10. There are numerous world-class attractions on the doorstep, from the National Railway Museum to Castle Howard, and you don’t have to be a tourist to enjoy them!
