Updated on March 12, 2023
Are you planning a romantic weekend in York? Here is your guide to the most romantic things to do in York for couples. Don’t miss these highlights off your itinerary!
In this guide you will find a roundup of the most romantic things to do in York including places to visit, where to eat in York and the best hotels in York for couples.
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Romantic Things to do in York for Couples
Whether you’re looking for a Valentine’s break, an anniversary getaway of simply a romantic day out, York is the perfect city for couples.
The historic charm of the city makes it the ideal place for a romantic outing. So next time you are looking for a date night escape, consider adding York to your list.
With so many romantic things to do in York, you will be spoiled for choice when it comes to things to do and where to eat. So, to help you plan the perfect getaway, here is a roundup of the most romantic things to do in York for couples.
Things to do in York for Couples
Here are some of the most romantic things to do in York for couples, which you can enjoy on your next visit.
York Minster
York Minster is the most iconic building in the city. You can see the towers stretching high from almost every street. But you still can’t fail to be impressed when you finally reach the minster and really take in the sheer scale of the building – no matter how many times you have seen it!
The minster is blessed with the quiet and reflective aura that surrounds many churches. This makes it the ideal spot to retreat the bustle of the city streets and enjoy a quite stroll through the building as a couple.
The most romantic spot in the minster is the Chapter House, where you will be surrounded by some of the 128 incredible stained-glass windows the minster is famous for.
York Chocolate Story
If you have a sweet tooth, York Chocolate Story is the perfect place to visit.
York has a history of sweet treats. It is the home of names such as Rowntrees and Terry’s. And at York Chocolate Story, you can revel in the chocolate history.
This interactive museum takes you through the history of chocolate, and how it made its journey to York. It explains how the city established itself as the home of chocolate when the surrounding cities relied on wool, cotton, and steel.
There are also demonstrations on the chocolate-making process. Try your hand at making your own sweet treats, or for a romantic twist, you can your partner could make a chocolate treat for each other.
Treasurer’s House
The grand historic house of Treasurer’s House is tucked behind York Minster. Now owned and maintained by the National Trust, the house and gardens welcome visitors through the spring and summer months.
This historic building was bought by Frank Green in 1897. He elaborately decorated the town house in anticipation of a particularly important royal visitor.
Today you can explore this beautiful building and gardens or take a tour to learn the history in more detail. It is a charming place with a distinctly romantic feel – perfect for visiting couples!
Theatre Royal
If you are looking for romantic things to do in York on an evening, a visit to Theatre Royal is the best place to start!
This grand theatre dates back to 1744 and is the home of live performance in York. You can catch anything from comedy, music, and dramatic performances all under this one roof.
Be sure to check out what’s on during your visit, and book your tickets for a cosy night in this spectacular setting.
Fairfax House
Fairfax House is a magnificent Georgian town house located on Castlegate.
As you step through the doors of this incredible building you find yourself soaking up the grandeur. The property has been lovingly and carefully restored to its former glory.
Discover how York’s wealthy merchants once lived while admiring the magnificent decor. It is a beautiful place to learn more about the history of York and a great attraction for couples to visit.
Clifford’s Tower
Clifford’s Tower is an imposing sight perched on a mound, watching guard over the city. It is almost all that remains of York Castle, which was built by William the Conqueror in 1068.
English Heritage maintains the remains of the tower. You can pay to enter to discover more of the building’s history.
For the most romantic experience, however, climb to the top of the monument and take in the stunning panoramic views of the city. It is a beautiful and exhilarating spot to enjoy as a couple.
York Art Gallery
No matter where you are in the world, art galleries always have a romantic feel, and York Art Gallery is no different!
The collection at York Art Gallery features paintings from 14th-century to contemporary prints, watercolours, drawings, and ceramics.
You could easily pass an hour or two here, admiring the artwork. It is a wonderful place for couples to visit. Find your favourite pieces and share them with one another!
Castle Howard
Although located 15 miles north of York, the grand stately home of Castle Howard is one not to be missed!
The home has been the private residence and home of the Howard family for more than 300 years. But they open their doors to visitors throughout the year so you can experience the beauty of the house for yourself.
Whether it is a fascinating tour of the home, or a romantic stroll through the gardens, Castle Howard is the perfect day trip from York for couples.
If you are visiting during the winter months, Christmas at Castle Howard is an especially enchanting experience!
Romantic Walks in York
The pretty streets of York are the ideal place for a stroll. And, for couples, there are some really romantic walks in York. Here are some of the best ones to try.
Walk York City Walls
To get the best views of the city, you need to take a walk along the York City Walls.
York has more miles of intact Medieval wall than any other city in England. Today, you can still walk an almost complete circuit right around the heart of the city walls.
The walls are accessible from 8am until dusk and are free to walk. The whole route will take around two hours to complete, or you can choose to walk a just a single section of the walls in a shorter time.
The most romantic time to walk the walls is shortly before the close. In the soft light of dusk, the walls have fewer tourists, and you can soak up the beauty of York in the golden hour light.
The Shambles
The Shambles is a postcard-ready street with overhanging timber-framed buildings, dating back as far as the fourteenth century. This iconic street where the buildings on opposite sides almost touch is one of the most recognizable spots in York.
The quaint street of The Shambles is the perfect place for a romantic stroll. If you visit during the day you can pick up some souvenirs from the independent shops that line the street.
However, the most romantic time to visit The Shambles is early morning. If you arrive before 9am you can take in the street without the bustle of tourists. There is something very magical about having The Shambles to yourself!
Museum Gardens
Museum Gardens is a quiet oasis hidden right in the city centre.
Be sure to take a stroll past the ruins of St Mary’s Abbey and admire the natural beauty of the park. In summer, don’t forget to pack a picnic for an extra special romantic treat!
The best time to visit Museum Gardens for a romantic walk is shortly after the park opens or just before it closes. On a sunny day, the park is a popular spot to unwind, so a visit at either end of the day helps to avoid the crowds.
Romantic Places to eat in York
And to round off your visit, here are the most romantic places to eat in York. You are sure to have worked up an appetite after visiting so many sights!
Afternoon Tea at Betty’s Tea Rooms
Afternoon tea at Betty’s Tea Rooms is possibly the most romantic dining experience in York!
The York tea rooms first opened in 1936 and its beautiful interiors were inspired by the Queen Mary ocean liner. The decor is still true to the design today and walking through the door is like taking a step back in time.
Betty’s is a delicious and popular treat when visiting York. During peak hours on busy weekends, you can expect to queue for a spot! It will be well worth the wait though for a romantic afternoon tea in such a unique setting.
Evening Dinner Boat
For a totally unique dinner experience, hop aboard an evening dinner boat cruise.
Enjoy wining and dining as you tuck into a delicious three course meal and a glass of house wine, while watching the city sail by.
As you soak up the impressive riverside views, you can enjoy a live sightseeing commentary of fascinating facts and history of York. Your voyage last for two and a half hours and is the perfect way to wrap up your romantic day!
Yorkshire Heart Vineyard
Less than 30-minute drive from York city centre you will find Yorkshire Heart Vineyard.
This vineyard is renowned for its delicious wines and craft beers, which you can enjoy on your visit.
There are a range of experiences available from wine tastings to a vineyard picnic. I don’t know about you, but you can’t get much more romantic than a picnic in a vineyard in my eyes!
Romantic Places to stay in York for Couples
If you want to extend your romantic trip to York, you can stay at one of the many hotels in the city. When it comes to a romantic getaway, here are the best places to stay in York for couples.
The Grand
The Grand is a hotel that lives up to its name. This 5-star luxury hotel and spa offers a relaxing stay in a beautiful Grade II listed building.
It is ideal for an indulgent escape for a special celebration. It is the perfect way to treat your loved one for Valentine’s Day or an anniversary.
Middletons
Middletons is the ideal hotel for couples looking for a quiet retreat. It is located close to the city centre, just a short, romantic walk away along the city walls past Clifford’s Tower.
It is perfect for couples who are keen to explore the York sights before settling down for a cosy night in.
Are you planning a romantic stay in York?
So, are you planning a romantic trip to the city? Which of these romantic things to do in York for couples are you most excited to visit?
If you’re looking for a little gift to make your trip even more romantic, check out these gift guides for inspiration:
- Romantic Valentine’s Day Ideas: 15 Gifts for Travel Lovers
- The Best Yorkshire Gifts for Yorkshire Lovers
- The Best Gifts For Leeds United Fans
- Care Package Ideas For Travel Lovers: Thoughtful Gifts They’ll Love
And if you want more York inspiration ahead of your visit, download your free York Quick Start Planning Guide for a list of the top 10 attractions in York, plus a guide to where to stay, when to visit and more!
Plus, you’ll get four bonus travel planning printables you can use when it comes to planning and packing for any trip!
Until our next adventure,
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Hello, I’m Hannah! I’m a writer and photographer who loves experiencing the wonders of Yorkshire. My guides will help you escape from your daily routine by showing you that you don’t have to go far to find an adventure.
So many romantic things to do in York as a couple! Would love to experience all of them!
York is a beautifully romantic city. I hope you get an opportunity to visit and try them out!
York, England has so many fun and romantic things to do! I would love to go to York Chocolate Story and then take a walk along the shambles. That sounds like a perfect day!
York certainly is a romantic city! Chocolate and a stroll down the Shambles sounds like a lovely romantic day out. I hope you get an opportunity to visit and try it out one day! Thanks for reading!
WOW!York looks like an incredibly Romantic place to visit! Adding this my ever-growing list of places to go and I love the idea of going in February- things are a bit quieter and though it can be cold- that allows for more hand- holding!
York is such a romantic city. It’s definitely a place worthy of a bucket list spot! You can’t go wrong with a visit any time of year although February is likely a little quieter than most months. I hope you get an opportunity to check York off your bucket list!
I had never really looked closely at the beauty of York, but now that I have, I’m definitely adding the city to my bucket list! The castles especially seem worth the trip (Canadian here!) Thanks for the suggestions 🙂
York is a spectacular city! The architecture is really beautiful and the history is fascinating. I think it is definitely worth a visit when you’re next in the UK! Thanks for reading!
The evening dinner boat sounds so romantic! I would love to experience that!
A delicious meal on a river cruise sounds so magical, doesn’t it? I hope you get an opportunity to visit and try it out!
Wow, such a beautiful place! And there’s a York chocolate story?! Count me in! adding to my bucket list for the UK in the future.
York is such a beautiful city. And the Chocolate Story is a great attraction to visit! I hope you get an opportunity to visit soon!
So many fun things, this is why York is one of my favorite places. I went in the Chocolate Story shop but didn’t go any further so that’s one for the next trip for sure. And a walk along the walls or down the Shambles is always fun – especially before the crowds get there
York is a great city, isn’t it? I’d definitely recommend paying a visit to York Chocolate Story! It is such a fun attraction! I found it really interesting and immersive. It is well worth visiting when you are next in York!
Always looking for ideas for my husband and I. We will be empty nesters in a year and a half and a little more free to come and go as we please then.
York is a beautiful city for couples. I hope you get an opportunity to visit and experience it for yourself!
Always looking for couple things to do when I’m away! 💕💕
We are too! I hope you get an opportunity to visit and try out these romantic things to do in York!
Castle Howard is such a pretty place to visit, so I definitely agree that it’s a nice spot for a date. Love your other ideas in York as well!
Castle Howard is such a romantic place to visit! Although it is a short distance from the city centre, I couldn’t possibly miss it off the list! I’m glad you like the guide to romantic things to do in York for couples!
What a great collection of romantic ideas to do in York. We would certainly not pass on the York Chocolate Story. And check out a walk or two.
York Chocolate Story is one of my favourite York sights (but I do have a very sweet tooth!) It is such an interesting place to learn about York’s chocolate history and to have a go at making your own. It is such a beautiful place to just stroll the streets and admire the beautiful buildings – I love every trip to York!
Betty’s Tea Rooms look spectacular! I’d love to go one day!
Betty’s is an absolute must-see spot in York! The tea rooms are so enchanting! I hope you get an opportunity to visit!
York is one of my favourite cities in the UK. You saw a lot more than I did, so looks like Ill have to return. I had no idea you could do a dinner boat cruise – I’d love that.
There is a lot to see in York! Luckily, I only live a short drive away, so I’ve had the opportunity to see everything on multiple visits. A dinner boat cruise is such a special experience. I hope you get an opportunity to try it out on your next visit!
Love these ideas! Chocolate making, wineries, and theatre? That’s like my perfect trifecta!
Haha York does have the winning combination with wine, chocolate and shows, doesn’t it? There’s no wonder it is such a popular place to visit!
Ooh going to a show at the Theatre Royal would be a great way to switch things up for a date! I think I’d also like to walk around the Castle Howard grounds 🙂 thanks for sharing!
I love going to the theatre and there always some great shows at Theatre Royal! Castle Howard is stunning too and a very romantic place for a stroll. Thanks for reading!
Thank you so much for this guide. For quite a while now I’ve been saying I really want to visit York and now I have the perfect guide! Saved for when I make it!
Hi Bea! I’m so glad you like the guide! York is such a beautiful city, I hope you get an opportunity to visit soon! Thanks for reading!
You had me chocolate! The York Chocolate Story is calling my name! It would be fun to visit York Chocolate Story one day and have high tea another. I love trying different flavors.
York Chocolate Story is a great attraction! It is really interesting and interactive. I loved learning the chocolate making process then trying it out for ourselves!
York looks like such a lovely place to spend the weekend! I’d definitely love to check out the chocolate museum 🙂
York is a beautiful city with so much to see and do! The chocolate museum is one of my favourite sights – I’d definitely recommend a visit when you are in the area!
This is such a great list with so many creative ideas of things to do for couples! I would love to see a show at the Theatre Royal and go on a dinner cruise. Those activities both sound like so much fun! Thanks for sharing 🙂
Hi Brittany! I’m glad you like the guide to romantic things to do in York for couples! Theatre and a dinner cruise sounds like the most perfect date night! And York is such a magical setting for it! Thanks for reading!
York is one of my favourite cities in the UK! I like to visit every year during the Christmas holidays but also during Valentine’s day it’s a good idea!! I always find new corners to photograph and add to my list!
York is such a beautiful city, isn’t it? It is so beautiful at Christmas but perfect for a Valentine’s getaway too! I hope you get an opportunity to visit and discover somewhere new soon!
To a California girls, these places in York look so magical and romantic! We have a big anniversary coming up and are looking for a romantic trip. Thanks for the ideas!
Ah I love California but it is very difference to York! Congrats on the big anniversary! I’m biased but I definitely think York is the ideal place to spend it! Thanks for reading!
That’s a perfect guide. I am saving it for when I visit the city with my hubby.
I’m glad you like this guide to romantic things to do in York for couples! I hope you get an opportunity to visit soon!
Can we agree that Castle Howard looks straight out of a storybook! I never realized York was so pretty. Thanks for highlighting and allowing me to place it on my bucketlist.
Castle Howard is such a dream! I love it there! York is such a beautiful city and well worth a visit! I hope you get an opportunity to visit! Thanks for the great guide!