We’re putting it out there: York is the best place in the UK for a Christmas family break. An amazing family-friendly destination at any time of year, York’s even more special at Christmas. From November onwards, the city transforms into a winter wonderland, with a festive atmosphere, Santa experiences, seasonal shows and pantomimes and wonderful day trips and winter walks.
Our handy guide to Christmas 2024 in York has everything you need to make your yuletide merry and bright, and follow us on Instagram/Facebook/TikTok and sign up to our newsletter so you never miss a thing. Here’s why you need to visit Christmas in York with your family.
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1. There are so many places to meet Santa
York has more places to meet Santa than there are toys in his sack, so whatever your child is into, and whatever their age, there’ll be an experience to suit. How about meeting Father Christmas on a boat or in a windmill, on a steam train or on the farmyard? Some of York’s top attractions go full-on festive from November, offering incredible Santa experiences that you’ll never forget. Our favourites include the iconic Father Christmas experience at Castle Howard, taking a river cruise with Santa and City Cruises, making chocolate with Santa at York’s Chocolate Story, taking a ride on Santa’s sleigh at Piglets Adventure Farm and even meeting Santa on a plane (sort of) at Yorkshire Air Museum! Find our pick of the best places to meet Santa in York here.
Top tips – Book early! Tickets for many of York’s most popular Santa experiences go on sale in August and September. Don’t panic if you miss out though, as there are some that you can pop into on the day.
2. There’s an award-winning York Christmas Market
One of the most popular things to do in York at Christmas is to visit the award-winning York Christmas Market which runs from November to just before Christmas day. Follow the scent of mulled wine and roast chestnuts to Parliament Street and St Sampson’s Square, where you’ll find lots of chalets selling a selection of locally sourced products that will help you finish your Christmas shopping list. If you go, go hungry! There’s no shortage of delicious food and drink on offer, from comforting crumble to Scandi sausages, and the obligatory mulled wine and hot chocolate.
Top tips – Avoid peak times (Saturdays and afternoons) for the most relaxed, child-friendly experience.
3. York has amazing pantomimes and festive shows
Nothing brings the family together at Christmas like a trip to the theatre, and York’s home to some amazing festive shows for all ages. The York Theatre Royal pantomime has legendary status, and York’s Grand Opera House is home to a popular panto too; expect sequins and silliness galore at both. If panto’s not your thing, there’s always a selection of entertainment for younger children and plenty of Christmas concerts too.
4. There are lots of lovely Christmas day trips
If ever there was a reason to stay a bit longer, it’s the array of festive day trips right on York’s doorstep. Head to Knaresborough for Mother Shipton’s Christmas experience, see Castle Howard’s legendary Christmas tree, embark on a winter walk or buy your Christmas tree at Dalby Forest or wander through the enchanted forest at Stockeld Park.
5. York’s the best place to do your Christmas shopping
Internet shopping might be convenient, but nothing beats the sights and sounds of York’s medieval shopping streets at Christmas. The city’s bursting with unique independent shops that you won’t find anywhere else, with everything from wonderful hardware stores to shops devoted to cats, ghosts and crime books! Visit the Indie York website for details of the best independent businesses in the city.
6. There are lots of family-friendly places to stay in York
If you’re staying in York for more than a day (which you definitely should), you’ll need somewhere to rest your heads. Good news, then, that there are lots of lovely family-friendly places to stay in York. Middletons is a gorgeous hotel that’s in a brilliant location but still feels like a peaceful haven from the hustle and bustle. If you’re looking for a swimming pool, Delta Hotels by Marriott or Novotel York are both good options. For a full-on luxury experience, The Grand is York’s only 5 star hotel and also happens to have a pool and gorgeous festive afternoon tea offering. In terms of self-catering, Harry Potter fans should check out 101 House at the End.
7. There are lots of things to do in York for free
The cost of Christmas can mount up, so it’s good news that there are plenty of things to do in York for free. Visit the Railway Museum, walk York’s city walls, do the Little Vikings I Spy Trail, take a stroll down the Shambles, see the magical Christmas lights, explore York Museum Gardens and take a walk by the pretty riverside. Find more ideas for things to do for free in York here, and ideas for things to do in the North York Moors for free here.
8. York’s a great place for a New Year break
Can’t make it to York before Christmas? Why not visit after Boxing Day? Everything is quieter, but you’ll still be able to enjoy the festive atmosphere, Christmas shows and lots of the Christmas activities. It’s a great time to see everything without the crowds, and the perfect base for a New Year walk in the North York Moors, Dales or Yorkshire Coast.
