Romantic Weekend in York: 10 Activities to Fall in Love With

York could be somewhere from a fairytale, with intimate cafés and restaurants tucked away among the medieval streets. The idyllic Yorkshire city also offers evening entertainment, shopping and plenty of greenery. With this itinerary for a romantic weekend in York, you'll start to fall in love with the place before you even arrive.

Many of the recommended attractions and activities for couples in York are entwined with the city's history, so dive right in and explore the heritage on the first day of your romantic getaway.

Let the ancient walls lead you on a romantic walk in York. With origins dating back to the Roman period, York’s city walls are accessed by the famous medieval bars, or gates. While you walk, learn more from informative plaques or immerse yourself in history on a guided tour. The walls are narrow in parts, literally bringing couples closer together, and gardens below provide floral scents and colourful scenery.

Delve into York's Castle Museum, just across the street from Clifford's Tower. The museum has world-class exhibits on the social history of the area, from fashion to toys. But perhaps the most enchanting exhibit for couples on a romantic getaway is the collection of historical Valentine's cards, including one of the oldest printed Valentine's cards still in existence.

York Castle Museum

• Eye of York, York YO1 9RY
• Open 11am–5pm Monday; 10am–5pm Tuesday–Sunday (open from 10am on Mondays during school holidays)
• Tickets are available online and cost £17 for adults, with concessions available for children, students and certain other groups

One of the most famous sights in York, The Shambles is a cobbled medieval lane lined with timber-framed buildings. In some places, The Shambles is so narrow that neighbours could shake hands from windows on opposite sides of the street. Historically a street of butchers, it now has little shops where you can pick up a souvenir to remind you of your romantic weekend in York.

No trip to York would be complete without a visit to one of its most famous landmarks, York Minster. The striking Gothic cathedral is a dominant feature of the city’s skyline, featuring huge medieval stained-glass windows. Climb up the central tower’s 275 stairs, and you’ll be rewarded with unrivalled panoramic views of the city. The glow of the Minster in the atmospheric late-afternoon light is unforgettable.

York Minster

• Deangate, York YO1 7HH
• Open 9:30am–4pm Monday–Saturday; 12:45pm–2:30pm Sunday
• Tickets cost £20 for adults, with concessions available for children, York residents and certain other groups

After taking in York’s famous landmarks during the day, top off your day with a show at the city’s renowned Grand Opera House. From musicals and plays to music and stand-up comedy, it’s a great way to spend an evening after a busy day of sightseeing. The theatre is ideally located close to hotels in York city centre.

• Where will you stay for your romantic weekend in York? A night at Novotel York Centre adds sparkle to any romantic getaway, with its riverside terrace and sauna. For a romantic retreat in the Yorkshire countryside, Mercure York Fairfield Manor, set in an 18th-century Georgian manor house, is just 15 minutes' drive from the city centre.

A scenic walk is a must on a sunny Sunday morning, and York’s River Ouse provides the perfect backdrop. There are several routes to choose from, all of which offer picturesque views of the river. While you walk, look out for Millennium Bridge, Clifford’s Tower and the 8-hectare Rowntree Park on the riverbank. Alternatively, a river cruise in York will take you past many of the same sights while also offering live commentary.

Lendal Bridge is a landing point for river cruises and is also the location of The Full Moo ice cream boat, which is open during warmer weather. This colourful canal boat, decorated with flowers, is a lovely spot to pick up an ice cream to enjoy as you continue exploring. If your walk takes you to Rowntree Park, Two Hoots Ice Cream Boat is another option near Millenium Bridge.

With its rich scent, smooth texture and irresistible taste, chocolate has always been the quintessential romantic food. Spend time together at York Cocoa Works, a chocolate factory in the heart of this city with a long history of chocolate-making. Take a tour or join a chocolatier workshop to make your own bar. There's also a warm and welcoming café to grab lunch or a hot drink and recount your chocolate-making experience.

• 10, Castlegate, York YO1 9RG
• Open daily 9:30am–5pm

As one of the most historic and architecturally varied streets in York, Stonegate is an attraction in its own right. Its boutique shops are another big draw, including a shop dedicated to teddy bears. There's also a shop for Christmas items housed inside Mulberry Hall, a delightful half-timbered edifice dating from 1434. Pick out gifts together or choose items to decorate your home as you browse this quaint street.

Many of the best restaurants in York are set in historical buildings, adding extra appeal to a candlelit dinner or fireside feast to cap your trip. Savour classic comfort food at Stonegate's Ye Olde Starre Inne, built in 1644, with its fireplace and stained glass. For fine dining on a special romantic occasion, dine at The Ivy York amid ultra-chic botanical decor.

End your romantic weekend in York with a nightcap at the Gourmet Bar at Novotel York Centre, where the terrace may still be warm enough to sip al fresco.

What will you do together during your romantic weekend in York?