A Magical Weekend in York: History, Hogwarts Vibes and Milestone Birthday Celebrations
From quirky Airbnbs to fiery brisket sandwiches, Remembrance Day tributes to live music, York served up a blend of history, good food, and unforgettable memories.
York: A City with a Lot of Charm (and Quite a Few Surprises)
If you’ve never visited York, you might imagine it’s all cobblestone streets, towering cathedrals, and medieval buildings—because, well, it is. But what you might not know is that York also delivers quirky Airbnbs, mouthwatering street food, and the kind of local breweries that make you feel like you’ve discovered a hidden treasure.
We recently spent a fabulous weekend in this enchanting city for a friend’s 50th birthday. And let me tell you, it was the perfect mix of history, Harry Potter vibes, and moments of pure joy. But first, let me tell you about the quintessentially York experience.
Check-in: A Wonky Airbnb on College Street
We kicked off our weekend with a stay at a quirky little Airbnb on College Street, which felt like a cosy little nest—and by "nest," I mean a place with more charm than straight walls. In other words, the house had character. One of those wonky, slightly crooked houses you’d see in a movie about wizards or time travel (probably both). It was exactly the kind of spot that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a whimsical adventure.
The Snickleway Inn: A Warm Welcome to York
After checking in, we decided to start our weekend right with a pint at the Snickleway Inn, a cozy pub tucked away in one of York’s winding alleyways. The atmosphere was classic pub: dimly lit, full of friendly locals, and just the right amount of buzz. We sipped our drinks and soaked in the charm, knowing we were in for a memorable weekend.
A Classic York Meal: Yorkshire Burrito at York Roast Company
Our first stop for food was York Roast Company, where the Yorkshire Burrito was calling our names. This wrap is a genius invention that combines all the best bits of a roast dinner—Yorkshire pudding, tender roast meat, stuffing, potatoes, carrots, peas and gravy—all wrapped up in a big old Yorkshire pud. It’s a carb lover’s dream, and after a day of travel, it was just what we needed to fuel our next adventures.
The 50th Bash: Partying in York Style at Impossible Bar
After refueling, we set our sights on the main event: celebrating our friend’s 50th birthday at The Impossible Bar. With a lively atmosphere, great music, and a crowd that was clearly in the mood to party, it was the perfect spot to mark such a milestone. Drinks flowed, we danced, and it didn’t take long for the whole group to forget what time it was—until we made our next stop.
What’s a birthday celebration without a late-night snack, right? After dancing at Impossible Bar, we were craving something delicious and decidedly unglamorous. Enter Middle Feast, a kebab shop that makes the kind of food that seems even better at midnight. Think fresh, flavorful kebabs that hit the spot just when you need them. With a wrap in hand and a satisfied smile on our faces, we called it a night—but not before a good sleep and an early start.
A Bit of Fun: The Last Rubber Stamp Shop and More
The next morning, we set off to explore more of York’s quirky side and stumbled upon the last rubber stamp shop for 349 miles. If you’re wondering where rubber stamps go when they retire, this is the place to find them. From here we wandered through York’s charming streets, admiring the historic architecture and soaking in the local atmosphere.
Fuel for the Day: Coffee at The Vanilla Pod
Before heading to York Minster for Remembrance Day, we needed a little pick-me-up. So, we popped over to The Vanilla Pod, a traditional tea house that serves some of the best coffee in the city. It was the perfect stop on a crisp November morning, with their smooth, robust brews warming us up for the day ahead. The quaint, cozy setting made it feel like we were experiencing something straight out of a storybook—an ideal way to fuel up for the reflective moments to come.
A Moment of Reflection: Remembrance Day at York Minster
With coffee in hand, we made our way to York Minster for Remembrance Day. We took a moment to observe the two-minute silence in front of this magnificent cathedral. As we stood there, it felt like the whole city had paused. The towering spires above us felt even more imposing, and the reverence in the air was palpable.
Then, as if on cue, a group of majestic white doves suddenly soared past the Minster during the silence. Their graceful flight was a poignant reminder of peace, and it felt like the perfect tribute to all those who have given so much. It was one of those rare, unforgettable moments that stays with you forever.
Brew York, Brew York: Time for Hair of the Dog
After the solemnity of Remembrance Day, we decided it was time for a little "hair of the dog." We made our way to Brew York, a local brewery on Walmgate, known for its exceptional craft beers. The Fairytale of Brew York stout, a rich, smooth dark beer, was exactly what we needed to shift gears. It had the power to turn around even the foggiest of heads. Brew York has a fantastic atmosphere—industrial, laid-back, and just the right place to enjoy a pint and chat with friends after a reflective morning.
A Fiery Feast: The Shambles Kitchen’s Guy Fawkes Special
With our spirits lifted and our bellies growling, we made our way to The Shambles Kitchen for lunch. We could smell the deliciousness of the Guy Fawkes smoked beef brisket barbacoa before we even saw the sign. This sandwich isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience. Smoked beef, blow-torched cheese, spicy Sriracha, and chipotle gunpowder, all served in a fresh sourdough focaccia with a sparkler on top for extra flair. If you're in York, this is an absolute must-try. Your taste buds will thank you, and you might even find yourself staring at your sandwich in awe for a minute before diving in.
Why York Is Worth the Trip (and Then Some)
York is one of those cities that feels like a charming mix of ancient history and modern-day magic. Whether you’re wandering the medieval streets, raising a glass at a local pub, or pausing for reflection at the Minster, the city is full of moments that will leave you with unforgettable memories. It’s not just the beauty and history that make York special, but the quirky, hidden gems around every corner—from rubber stamp shops to mouthwatering sandwiches with sparklers.
So, if you're looking for a weekend getaway that offers everything from heartfelt moments to epic food and drink, pack your bags and head to York. It’s a place that’s sure to enchant you, whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth.
Tips for Your York Weekend:
Must-See: York Minster, The Shambles, Brew York Brewery
Best Eats: Yorkshire Burrito at York Roast Company, Guy Fawkes Special at Shambles Kitchen
Where to Stay: Look for a quirky, wonky Airbnb on College Street
Where to Drink: Brew York, Impossible Bar, Snickleway Inn
For a Bit of Fun: Visit the last rubber stamp shop (because who knows when you’ll get another chance?)
