Although small, York was one of my favorite places in the UK. I could have stayed weeks in York’s city center, exploring the historic streets and buildings, learning about its very long history and finding new writing spots in quaint cafes and pubs.
This is the first Writer’s Travel Guide in my UK series, and for good reason. York is one of the most ideal destinations for a writing retreat, in my opinion.
And this guide is here to help you plan your own writing retreat in York!
As in all my Writer’s Travel Guides, you’ll find the best writing spots, the best spots for writing breaks and inspiration and best places to stay while in York.
There are so many cute cafes and cozy pubs in York! But these are the ones I went to that I can personally vouch for as great writing spots.
This cute café is located off of The Shambles, and it has hands down the best scones I’ve had in the entire UK. After wandering around the historic and charming Shambles, stop by here for cream tea and get some writing done upstairs.
If you prefer writing with a beer in hand, this charismatic pub is ideal for writing. It even has a little room called The Library, complete with bookshelves. The whole pub has a lot of character, with quotes written on the walls, hopefully inspiring you to write your own words that will be worthy of being displayed on a wall!
Looking for a cozy place to write a paranormal story? York is known as one of the most haunted cities in the UK, and this place is reputed as the most haunted pub in the UK, so it’s perfect if you’re writing a book about ghosts. It’s only for the bravest of writers though, so enter if you dare!
If you prefer writing outside, I found this was the best place for it. Beyond the nature paths and pretty gardens with benches to sit on, there were lots of interesting structures here. My favorite was St. Mary’s Abbey ruins. It’s interesting exploring the ruins of a once impressive building and using your imagination to wonder what it used to look like.
This adorable little street has a lot of history, and you can easily imagine it because it’s preserved to look as it did in around 1400. Originally the butchers’ street with stalls selling meat, this quaint street now houses expensive and cute little shops and tea rooms.
Also, it’s a must-see for any Harry Potter fan because there are several Harry Potter stores on this street. (Did I originally want to go to York only for this reason? Maybeee…) The most famous one is The Shop That Must Not Be Named, and especially in COVID times, you’ll have to wait in line to enter due to restrictions on shop capacity. But that’s okay; The Shambles offers great people watching (a.k.a. character idea collection) possibilities.
This ruin is quite striking, looking a tad out of place on its grassy hill in front of a modern city street. Once the execution spot of Roger de Clifford, it’s now a nice place to get views of York.
Also worth mentioning is the castle behind it, which you can also visit!
For another dose of history (perfect if you’re writing historical fiction) dating all the way back to Roman times, one of the best wanders around town is to walk on top of the city walls that circle York. There are lots of fascinating stops along the way, and I found that there were many signs explaining the history and significance of many structures.
Looking for some inspiration for a book with a darker theme? The York Dungeon explores the city’s darker history, and this immersive experience with actors, shows and special effects will make writing about it easy!
Alternatively, if you’re interested in writing a book about Vikings, York is the place to visit. The city was invaded by Vikings in 866, and this attraction will give you a very vivid look at what life was like back then.
This is a stunning cathedral, with beautiful architecture and stained-glass windows and lots of history. Also, its central tower will give you a great view of York if you’re willing to climb 275 steps. Who knows, maybe you’ll find some writing inspiration in this gigantic building full of history.
Looking for a cozy place to stay while in York? These two hotels are perfect for writers!
[The following links are affiliate links, which means I may receive commission.]
A charming hotel in a great location, this is an ideal place to stay in York if you want to get some writing in. I always look for accommodation with a desk to write on, which this hotel’s rooms have. It’s located above a pub with character, perfect for writing in, so you can just head downstairs if you need a change of scenery.
For a more luxurious stay, the Judges Court features stunning rooms that you won’t mind staying in all day to write. If you do wish to leave, this hotel is located right in the city center so you can access York easily. Each room is unique and different, but each has a nice spot to write in, whether it’s a desk, couch or luxurious bathtub.
Have I convinced you to choose York as your next destination for a writing retreat?
I hope so, because I’m definitely returning to York the next time I’m in the UK to get some writing done! It’s such a charming little city with so many great writing spots to choose from, and there’s still so much I want to explore there.
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Definitely adding York to my bucket list!
Breathtaking! I don't know that I'd be able to focus; I'd be itching to explore.
My mom grew up not far from York. We went back a lot as kids. Sad to say I haven't been in a few years but need to get back there. York is a lovely area with such a great city center. I do love their shops and pedestrian streets.
York looks like such an awesome place to visit! I'd love to visit the next time I'm in the UK. I love all the architecture, especially of the York Minster. Thanks for sharing these awesome spots to visit!
Amazing!!! I love finding fun places to write, and I have to say that a pub with a library is probably an unbeatable combination. I'm definitely going to have to check some of these out next time I'm in York. As if that city isn't already awesome enough!
Great post! Your photos are beautiful, and it looks like there are so many great places to write in York. I'd love to visit all of these!
What a great and unique guide - I stared at the pictures and imagined myself sipping a cup of tea and writing about my travel adventures. Lovely spots!
The Snickleway Inn looks adorable and not at all haunted (although I totally believe you when you say there may be ghosts). I'd love to visit or stay there. The Shambles sounds like an interesting stop, too. Lots of great ideas!
Us bloggers are always looking for great writing spots! I'm a coffee shop kind of gal, so Parlormade looks perfect for me. Also, while I have been to the UK, I haven't made it to York yet - it's on my list! It looks so adorable!
I love these guides on places to sit, write and find inspiration. It's one of the things I'm always looking for in cities, and surprisingly difficult to find. York is such a pretty city to explore, and this has certainly added a few more places to seek out. thank you.