With its Roman beginnings and medieval trimmings – York may be old, but this vibrant city still knows how to have a good time.
York has a long and unique history. Its Roman and Viking heritage is celebrated with the annual Eboracum and Jorvik festivals featuring craft stalls, street musicians, and battle reenactments. The small, twisting streets – The Shambles [is] a standout – and opportunity to walk along the walls make the city an exciting and interesting place to explore. Even as a third year, I'm always finding something new around every corner! It's a very small city centre, and can easily be walked end to end in about 15 minutes. (Third year student, University of York)
What York's famous for...
Festivals
From Shakespeare and Fringe theatre, to gardening and food, York has festivals throughout the year, making it a vibrant city in every season.
York nightlife, according to students
The Lowther and Stone Roses are student favourites for a cheap pint and some good chat. But, if you want to get adventurous and try some cocktails, head down to quirky Evil Eye, take a trip from old York to New York in Manahatta, or head to the riverside and go to Revolution before dancing the night away there on Sunday. (Third year student, University of York)
Walls
Majestic medieval walls enclose the city's spider web of streets.
York nightlife, according to students
If you’re not into drinking, York’s fantastic live music scene is surely right for you. Boasting everything from Grime to Indie rock, live music venues offer some of the biggest names in music, performing intimate gigs all year round. In York, there is something for everyone. (Third year student, University of York)
Shambles
The Shambles in the heart of the city is one of the best-preserved medieval shopping streets in Europe. It's the bustling home of York’s largest group of independent traders.
Student life in York
Local gems, tips, and things to do, as recommended by students.
Low on cash
I love just walking around the city. Explore the city walls, and the world-famous Shambles before getting into the Minster for free with your student card. (Second year student, University of York)
Friday feeling
Club Salvation, or ‘Salvos’ as you will come to know it, is the place to be if you’re looking for a night out. (Second year student, University of York)
Sunday chilling
The Museum Gardens are always lovely to walk around. Gatehouse Coffee is a cafe on the historic wall, with a really nice view from the outdoor seating area. (Third year student, York St John University)
When family visit
Bettys Café Tea Rooms is quite famous, and does really nice cakes and other food. The JORVIK Viking Centre and The York Dungeon are also really good to visit. (University of York student)
Grab a bite
The York Roast Co is a favourite among locals, students, and tourists, as it is home to the Yorkshire Pudding wrap. (Second year student, University of York)
Feeling cultural
One of the most haunted cities in Europe, you can take the York Ghost Tour. On a lighter [note], there are experiences such as the York's Chocolate Story, and the National Railway Museum is a beautiful place to visit and learn from. (Second year student, University of York)
Treat yourself
Evil Eye! The bar is set up in a three-storey Tudor house. The owner would travel around places in India and China, buying objects from local markets, and shipping them to his bar. (Second year student, York St John University)
Catch up with mates
Bison Coffee House and Brew & Brownie are both fantastic! Make sure you get to Brew & Brownie before lunchtime though, especially on the weekend as there will be queues. (Second year student, University of York)
York in pictures
York Minster
A view of York Minster on a sunny day, and the photo that makes me miss York when I'm not there. (Second year student at York St John University)
Living in York, according to students
My flatmates and I go for walks together on an almost-daily basis. It’s the perfect way to take a break from my studies and enjoy some nature. There are beautiful trails and paths close to uni, but if nature’s not your thing, you can always walk into town (to enjoy the beautiful city centre) or around it on the historic walls! (First year student, University of York)
Stone Roses Bar
The best bar in York, with great music and cheap student drinks. (Leah, York St John University)
Living in York
With great bus links throughout the city, it’s easy – and sustainable – to use public transport to travel around. Lots of York students use bikes; there are plenty of cycle paths and bike lanes, and not many hills! You can also rent an e-scooter or e-bike and shuttle around the city. York is a great base from which to explore the stunning scenery of Yorkshire. Great rail and transport networks also connect you with the major cities of the UK, and friends at other universities.
Living in York, according to students
Hull Road – lots of students live here. It's close to both [University of York] campuses – a 15-minute walk to either Campus East or West. There are a couple of pubs on Hull Road, but neither is particularly nice or friendly. Houses are nice, and a good price, but [have] no character – especially for one of Britain's oldest cities. Would recommend living in the Wellington Street/Wallis Street area [instead]. [It’s] only [a] five-minute walk from [the] city centre, and 15-minute walk to Campus West. Lots of buses going to Campus East as well (free for students). (Third year student, University of York)
Local transport*
- £12 a week
- York FirstWeek
- (Bus)
Where you'll find students*
- Hull Road
- Heslington Road
- Fulford
*Average mean rents via Spareroom.co.uk (Feb 2017). Value for money via Which? University Survey 2016. Local transport via local operators' website.
Student money tips
If you go to the University of York, buy First Bus' student saver singles. They will be a lifesaver. It's £1 for a single anywhere around York. (Second year student, University of York)
The cost of living as a student soon adds up. Use our budget calculator to find out roughly how much you'll need each month.
Discover more savings on student life in York with
UCAS student discounts. Find the latest deals, from fashion brands and eating fresh, to big discounts on tech and travel.
Chat to current students!
Want to find out what life is really like at university and college? Chat with students and find out what living at uni is like.
