Battle of the Cities: York

Food

The food options in York are really endless. There is the perfect mix of independent cafés and fast food franchises. On the walk up to York Minister from the train station you will find many places to have a cup of coffee and sweet treat. Move slowly towards the town centre and you will find popular chains like the golden arches. However, to get a real Yorkshire experience there are two options: Betty’s Tea Room and the York Roast Co. 

Betty’s Tea Room is famous. You will be lucky to find the place without a queue as it is nearly always busy. The Tea Room has great food but they provide the experience as well with the staff dressed up in old-style outfits. At Betty’s you sit down and leisurely enjoy your time. 

The York Roast Co. is different. Available to eat-in or takeout, this eatery is all about the Yorkshire roast – meat, potatoes, vegetables, stuffing, gravy, and, most importantly, the Yorkshire pudding. Ready for the next level? Then grab the Yorkypud Wrap. Yes, you read that right. It is a Sunday Roast stuffed into a delicious Yorkshire Pudding wrap. Could there be anything more Yorkshire?

As a historical city, York feels like it has more character and authenticity compared to Newcastle. 

Shopping

York doesn’t disappoint with its range of shopping choices. It has a mixture of small markets, boutiques, and high street fashion. At Coppergate Shopping Centre you are more likely to find the typical high street shops if you want to keep up with the latest trends. There are also other spots with high streets grouped but for the most part York is a little scattered in places. Compared to Newcastle, York’s shopping can be a let-down. However, if you are able to travel a little out of York then you’ll find an Outlet Centre with high fashion brands at discount. 

Activities

York Minister. Clifford’s Tower. York City Wall. Railway Museum. Yorkshire Museum. Jorvik Viking Centre. York Cold War Bunker. That’s is all that needs to be said. There is a more in-depth piece on the York Cold War bunker here. 

Transport

York’s transportation is very good. Easily accessible by train from all over the country with main routes to London and Edinburgh. The transportation around the city is just as easy with many buses running all day, there are also sightseeing buses that take you around the main spots of York if you’re interested. The only reason it doesn’t get 5 stars is because this is a battle and Newcastle wins this battle. 

northeasttour

Read the second part of this series on Newcastle here.

northeasttour

Photo Highlight: