Located 10 minutes from York city centre, the Elmbank Hotel is the perfect base from which you can discover York's hidden stories and attractions
York Minster
York Minster is one of Europe’s finest medieval buildings and the oldest Gothic cathedral in Northern Europe. Famous for its violent history, fine architecture, and expansive collection of stained-glass windows, the Minster welcomes over 2 million people from around the world each year.
City Walls
Less than 10 minutes walk from Elmbank Hotel stands Micklegate Bar, one of four Bars along the beautifully preserved City Walls outlining York. Lined with daffodils and wildflowers along the 3.4km route, the walls are open for you to tour and explore, for free, year-round.
Shambles
One of York’s most famous family attractions and one of the best-preserved medieval shopping streets in Europe. Dating back to the 14th Century, ‘Shambles’ is characterised by its overhanging timber-framed buildings and cobbled street. Formerly, home to York’s medieval butchers, Shambles is now filled with independent boutiques and cafes. Tours are available daily.
York Museum Gardens
Set against the backdrop of the medieval St. Mary’s Abbey ruins, York Museum Gardens are famous for their collection of botanical plants, trees, and shrubs. A former home for 70 years to a family of wild peacocks, the gardens now host over 40 species of bird, hundreds of butterflies and moths, and the beautiful, endangered Tansy Beetle.
York Castle Museum
Discover over 400 years of York’s history through interactive galleries and York Castle Museums exhibitions featuring displays and innovative new ways of learning about York’s past.
York's Chocolate Story
York’s Chocolate Story, located in the heart of York, is an entertaining and informative guided tour through the history of York’s most famous chocolate-making families and their finest creations. You’ll discover chocolate’s origins, how to make it, how to taste it like an expert and even the sustainable future of chocolate.