22 Cool and Unusual Things to Do in York - Atlas Obscura

Unusual Attractions in York

Shambles of York

Follow the original medieval paths that wind through this intriguing section of the city.

Cat Statues of York

A century-old tradition has culminated in a small but singular collection of feline effigies.

The Snickelways of York

This network of narrow, medieval passages has the most delightful name.

York Cold War Bunker

This disused Cold War bunker has been restored to all of its early 60s glory.

Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma-Gate

One of the shortest streets in York has an especially odd name.

The York Ghost Merchants

Makers and sellers of the original and finest York Ghosts.

National Railway Museum York

The National Railway Museum in York is the largest railway museum in the world, attracting almost 1 million visitors per year.

Baile Hill

The little-known second castle that William the Conqueror built in York.

See All 22 Things to Do in York See All 22 Places

Want to see fewer ads? Become a Member.

In partnership with Get Your Guide

Guided Tours Nearby

Atlas Obscura Trips

Southern England: Lore of Dartmoor

Explore York, England

Launch Map

York Leaderboard

Places Added

Places Edited

Places Visited

Recent York Activity

thecraftytype has been to Baile Hill

thecraftytype has been to The Snickelways of York

thegoodfaith wants to go to Cat Statues of York

vmhenshaw wants to go to 'Printer's Devil'

vmhenshaw wants to go to Hidden Wonders of York Minster

Stories About York

The top of a Strickland spoon.

The Macabre Mystery of a British Family's Skull-Topped Spoons

The 17th-century artifacts were likely christening gifts.

A fragment of the old York station.

Found: York’s First Railway Station

Workers uncovered evidence from a pivotal moment in the city's modern history.

by Jonathan Carey

The note scribbled by William Melton of Joan's ruse and escape.

How a 14th-Century Nun Faked Her Own Death

Her escape was documented in the margins of a medieval manuscript.

by Jonathan Carey

February 18, 2019

Want to see fewer ads? Become a Member.