A daytime photo looking over The Minster and gardens in York. A city where you can find unusual things to do in York

Unusual Things to Do in York:

Ideas Beyond the Tourist Trail

A mesmerising city with history on every street, beautiful buildings, gorgeous green spaces and more than its fair share of cosy coffee shops and delicious dining experiences, York is the place I call home.

If you’re visiting for the first time, it’s a stunning city that’s not too big in size but mighty in content. There are plenty of blogs and resources covering the essential tourist sites, and there’s a very good reason they’re popular.

But what if you’ve already seen the Minster, wandered the Shambles and walked the city walls? What if you’re looking for something a little different?

That’s where Challenge Fifty-Two comes in.

Trying unusual things in York

Since 2018, I’ve set myself the challenge of trying 52 new things every year. And because I live in York, quite a few of those adventures have happened right here on my doorstep.

Some have been delicious. Some have been downright bizarre. Whilst some have pushed me well outside my comfort zone. And a few have left me thinking, well… that was different!

So this isn’t a list of the usual things to see in York. It’s a collection of unusual experiences you can actually take part in – from making chocolate and creating your own gin to throwing axes and playing underwater hockey.

Whether you’re visiting York and fancy doing something different, or you’re a local looking for something new to try, I hope you’ll find something here to tempt you.

And yes, I’ve tried a fair few of them myself.

Looking for something I've personally tried?

I’ve tried quite a few of these recommendations myself, and where I have, you’ll find a link to my experience so you can discover what I thought, what surprised me and how you can give it a go yourself.

Others are still on my list – which means this page will hopefully continue to grow as my own Challenge Fifty-Two adventures do.

Search the ideas

Below you can scroll through each idea.

Alternatively, you can click one of the topics which will take you straight to those recommendations.

Eat, drink and make something delicious
Get spooky and step into the strange
Things to make, create and get crafty
Things you can watch, listen to, and join in
Get moving and try something different
Explore York differently

Eat, drink and make something delicious

Take a class at a cookery school

For a hands-on foodie experience in a state-of-the-art kitchen with a professional chef, you can follow along to make ridiculously delicious meals.

With all the prep and washing up taken care of, you get to focus on the method, learning hints and tips that will take your culinary skills to the next level. There are a variety of mouthwatering classes available from The Grand Cooking School.

Challenge Fifty-Two, a white woman with dark hair at a cookery class in York
I made one of the best meals of my life at a cookery class

Make your own chocolates in a masterclass

Known as the home of chocolate, it shouldn’t come as a surprise to find that you can learn how to make an enticingly sweet treat in York.

From making your own delicious thick solid bar, to a masterclass in creating decadent fondants, rich truffles, silky caramels and more, York Cocoa Works offers a variety of hands-on delicious experiences throughout the year.

  • Good for: individuals | couples | small groups | families
  • Cost : prices start from £6.50 per person for chocolate lollipop making, and go up to £195 for a full days masterclass, with seasonal experiences available too.
  • Find out more : Visit York Cocoa Works for more details
  • My experience : From tasting the fruit, to discovering an unexpected but essential piece of kit, here’s what it’s like at a Bean to Bar Masterclass.
A thick slab of chocolate made in a beans to bar chocolate making masterclass. An example of an unusual thing to do in York
Try a chocolate masterclass with a bean to bar workshop

Discover York Gin through tastings or by making your own

Since establishing in 2018, York Gin has garnered a strong reputation in the drinks world having won numerous awards for their spirits.

Offering gin tasting sessions in their beautiful boutique working distillery in the heart of York, you’ll be guided through the fascinating history of the drink, learn tips for tasting, and of course get to sample some of their fabulous range.

Or why not make your own gin in a two and a half hour class? Discover the wonderful world of botanicals as you learn how to use a mini copper gin still to create your own unique bottle.

  • Good for: individuals | couples | small groups

  • Cost : Gin tasting costs £35 per adult. Gin school make your own gin costs £95 per adult, or £120 for two people sharing.

  • Find out more : York Distillery
  • My experience : Discover what it was like to try a York Gin tasting event.
A variety of different bottled gins which may be tried during a gin tasting
Try a variety of local gins at a gin tasting

Go on a brewery tour

Brew York have been crafting beer since 2016, and their brewery tours take you behind the scenes to discover how some of their best-selling tipples are made.

With a love for quirky names and unusual flavours, you’ll find out how their passion for playful perfection has been inspired by Yorkshire and beyond.

Why not hop on to their website to find out more.

  • Good for: individuals | couples | small groups

  • Cost : £22 per adult

  • Find out more : visit the Brew York website

Rum tasting with Villains Rum

Mixing some of York’s darker characters with some seriously lip-smacking flavours. Villain’s Rum introduce you to some of the notorious nasties from the city’s past, whilst sampling some unusually tasty rums.

Deliciously different flavours and a story with every sip, this is an entertaining taste exploration through the murky past of some of York’s infamous characters.

A certificate and a lanyard given for attending a rum tasting - an example of an unusual thing to do in York
Will you succeed in a rum tasting?

Food and Drink Festival

This is a must-do for any foodies. There is so much going on during the 10 day festival in September which showcases local producers and York establishments.

From food stalls to talks, demonstrations to samples, there is plenty going on for you to sink your teeth into.

The taste trail is a particular favourite – even as a local it’s likely that you’ll discover places you’ve never tried before.

A booklet showing a map of York with numbers indicating locations to stop at.
Lots of places to visit on the food and drink festival taste trail

A beer and crisp tasting

You’re probably familiar with the idea of a wine and cheese tasting, but what about a beer and crisp tasting?

For a relaxed and informative evening you can discover some seriously good beers, and the salty snacks that pair perfectly with them.

With a perfect blend of science and good taste, you’ll find out why certain flavours do (and don’t) work well together. 

A flight of three glasses of different beer on a wooden board at a beer and crisp tasting event, an unusual thing to do in York
Discover your favourite pairing at a beer and crisp evening

Indulge in a Medieval Feast in the Grand Hall

Barley Hall is a medieval townhouse tucked away down a snicket in the centre of the city.

It’s a popular tourist attraction, but you might not know that each year they invite people to join them for a three course feast in the Great Hall, bringing history to life with food, music, games and entertainment.

Think feasting by candlelight under the grand timber beams on a menu of medieval themed dishes, with plenty of merriment to be had.

  • Good for: individuals | couples | small groups
  • Cost: £80 per person
  • Find out more: visit the Barley Hall website for updates and bookings on events.

Try a foraging walk

You might be like me, and think that surely you can’t go foraging in the city centre?

After a comprehensive introduction, you’ll go on a guided walk to discover plants you might easily walk past that you could actually eat.

With a focus on how to forage safely, there will be nibbles and tastings and you’ll be amazed at the abundance of edible plants right under our noses.

Close up of some blackberries growing outside
Discover what you can eat on a foraging walk

Take Tea With Cats

A purrr-fect paws in the itinerary for fans of felines.

The Cats Whiskers offers you drinks and an array of scrumptious locally made cakes which you can enjoy in the company of cats.

Coming from rescue centres, or given away by previous owners, the cats in the cafe have made the grade II listed building their home and are happy mingling amongst the customers.

  • Good for: individuals | couples
  • Cost: from £9 per person. Food and drinks are additional.
  • Find out more: visit The Cats Whiskers website for more information and bookings
  • I tried it: Were the cats happy for a fuss, or too busy sleeping? Full write up coming soon.

Make, create and get crafty

Pub painting

Whatever your artistic ability, these sessions are expertly delivered to ensure you leave with a painting to be proud of.

Friendly and fun teachers provide all the kit and guide you through the steps to create your masterpiece. Alcohol is optional, as you buy your own drinks at the bar.

With regular events and different images throughout the year take a look at their site for more details.

A canvas with a partly painted image during a pub painting event. An unusual thing to do in York
Create a masterpiece at a pub painting event

Have a go on a potters wheel

Bish Bash Pot is a cosy little spot on Walmgate offering pottery painting in their shop front studio.

They also have pottery wheel experiences and courses so you can try your hand at throwing the clay and creating your own perfectly individual pot pieces.

  • Good for: individuals | couples | small groups |
  • Cost: The wheel experience costs £64 per person
  • Find out more: Bish Bash Pot
  • I tried it: Full write-up coming soon

Terrarium making

Get your hands dirty for a boost of serotonin and learn something new in the calming green plant studio of Outside In.

Whether you’re green-fingered or green thumbed, Alice will skilfully guide you as you create your own gorgeous green miniature world and you’ll get an aftercare guide so you can keep your terrarium in tip-top shape at home.

Looking down at an open topped terrarium full of green leafy plants
Bring the outside in and try making a terrarium

Take a street photography walk

Whether you take photos on a phone or a camera, why not capture some epic snapshots of York’s bustling centre.

With guidance from a fantastic tutor, you’ll be taking home immersive memories from the busy heart of the city. 

Whether you’re starting from scratch, looking to brush up your skills, or trying to move away from the auto settings, this is a walking workshop for all abilities and all cameras.

Try willow weaving

If you like working with your hands to create something pretty and unique, why not try working with willow?

Offering sessions throughout the year at a variety of different locations, you can discover the creative process of working with this tactile and natural material. You’ll make something beautifully rustic you’ll be able to proudly display at home and say ‘I made that’.

  • Good for: individuals | couples | small groups

  • Cost: £25 per person

  • Find out more: L&S Crafts

  • My experience: of a gorgeously mindful session

Two nordic stars made from willow.
Get creative and try willow weaving

Try paper crafts

Indulge in mindful creativity and prepare to be amazed at some of the incredible crafts you can make with paper.

Discover how to make flowers from paper, brighten up your space by hand-crafting some origami fairy lights, discover the relaxing art of marbling or how to make a paper cut lantern. 

With expert tutors and all materials included, you can find these workshops in various locations across York throughout the year.

A string of hanging origami stars
Discover some of the amazing things you can make with paper

Discover the world of print

Thin Ice Press is a wonderful space that is the York Centre for print.

Combining craft, design, heritage and creativity, they are all about preserving traditional printing techniques, and regularly host workshops to share their love of the craft.

From letterpress workshops to pressure printing, lino print lessons to bookbinding and many other hands-on experiences, you can discover the tools, techniques and skills involved, and make your own unique creations.

Join a Lush workshop

You usually smell the Lush shop before you see it. The intoxicatingly intense blend of natural fragrances seep out of the shop door.

But did you know they also offer workshops in store where you can make your own versions of some of their products?

From face scrubs to bath bombs, you can discover the fresh ingredients and hands on processes that are used to make some of their range.

A pot of face mask and a colourful bath bomb in front of a Lush carrier bag
Have a go at a Lush workshop

Get moving and try something different

Axe throwing

Within the city walls you can try your hand at this extraordinary skill.

Regardless of the outdoor elements, you can unleash your inner viking (safely tutored by a modern day coach of course), and try indoor axe throwing at The Hilt.

Great for groups, you’ll have a few training rounds before entering the tournament where the competition begins.

  • Good for: individuals | couples | small groups

  • Cost: prices start from £21 per person

  • Find out more: The Hilt

  • My experience: I tried outdoor axe throwing and discovered that it’s actually much harder than it looks.

A wooden target with an axe stuck in the bullseye.
Channel your inner viking and try axe throwing

Try bouldering

York is notoriously flat and free of boulders, however, the brilliant Red Goat Climbing Company hasn’t let that stop them from offering climbing experiences.

They have an amazing space where you climb without ropes or a harness. Hefty crash mats cushion any falls, and professional instructors teach you the basics as you give your mind and muscles a workout.

It’s also where my challenge of trying 52 new things a year began!

  • Good for: individuals | couples | small groups | families

  • Cost: Inductions are £20 | one off sessions cost £10 | monthly and annual memberships are also available.

  • Find out more: Red Goat

  • I tried it: But I’ve not written up the experience yet – it’s coming soon!

Learn to play Octopush

You wouldn’t ordinarily associate York with snorkels, but here’s an activity you can try that requires them.

Also known as underwater hockey, Octopush is a sport that deserves more recognition. It’s flipping fast!

Hold your breath for this incredible game. It’s a low contact sport which sees players swim along the bottom of the pool, pushing the puck with a small stick, and attempting to get it into the goal.

The York Octopush team regularly hold free taster sessions for all ages to join, and they are the perfect way to learn the game with other beginners, no experience needed.

Challenge Fifty-Two, a white woman underwater trying Ocotpush, one of the unusual things to do in York
Have a go at Octopush, also known as underwater hockey

Try Tag Rugby

If rugby league or rugby union look a bit too hardcore, then Try Tag Rugby might be for you. It’s a minimal contact game, with mixed teams playing 7-a-side.

It’s easy to pick up the rules of the fast and energetic game, with plenty of running, dodging, and swerving as you attempt to de-tag the opposition.

It’s a brilliant sport if you want to push yourself to your limit, get fit, or meet new people, community is a really important part of the club.

Close up of a ribbon on a pair of shorts that reads Try Tag Rugby
Pick up the sport of Try Tag Rugby

Try Hot Yoga

For an experience that uplifts the mind and body, a warming flow at YogaBomb can feel almost spiritual.

It’s a friendly and welcoming space just outside of the city walls, where you can enjoy blissful stretches, relaxing poses, and a moment of slowing down and focusing on yourself.

With classes to suit all levels and abilities, the heat helps with mobility and deeper stretches as dedicated and passionate instructors guide the session.

  • Good for: individuals | couples | small groups
  • Cost: Taster sessions are £10 | £15 for a drop in class | Introductory offers and block booking are also available.
  • Find out more: I have tried hot yoga with Yogabomb. You can also try it with Hotpod yoga
  • I tried it: I went along for a wonderfully relaxing session – full write up coming soon.

Play padel

If tennis and squash were blended together to make a cocktail, this would be the result.

For longer rallies and more action, padel is really easy to pick up and addictive to play. There’s less chance of the ball going out of play like it does in tennis, and it’s less vicious than squash.

A fun and friendly (unless you’re with someone particularly competitive) active experience.

  • Good for: individuals | couples | small groups | families

  • Cost: Prices start from £20. The cost varies from peak to off-peak and duration of booking.

  • Find out more: Take a look at Pure Padel for details

  • I tried it: I went along to the opening night and learnt how to play the game. Full write up coming soon.

Challenge Fifty-Two, a white woman with dark hair wearing sportswear and holding a padel racket.
Why not try your hand at a game of padel?

Ludosport

Don’t worry, I hadn’t heard of this one either.

Originating in Italy, Ludosport is actually Light Saber Combat. Yes, like in Star Wars!

The light sabres are super cool, and a significant advancement from the roll or wrapping paper you might have swung around in your bedroom, (surely that wasn’t just me?!) They even sound fantastic.

The sport focuses on control and set moves, and is a brilliant way to get moving with a fabulous group of people.

  • Good for: individuals | couples | small groups

  • Cost: A 2 hour discovery session costs £10

  • Find out more: follow LudoSport York on Facebook for the latest details

  • I tried it:– Did I fully embody a Star Wars character? full write up coming soon

Challenge Fifty-Two, a white woman with dark hair holding a light saber above her head as she tried Ludosport
Trying a sport I'd never heard of before - Ludosport

Roller disco

Whether you are new to rollerskating or you’ve dabbled before, get your groove on for a wheely fun evening!

You don’t need your own skates as they are available for hire, and if you need any pointers or advice then the friendly team are on hand to give you some guidance.

Definitely not just for kids, this is a balancing act with good beats for all ages.

  • Good for: individuals | couples | small groups | families

  • Cost: Tickets cost £8 per session and include skate hire

  • Find out more: visit the Yorkshire Roller Disco website for the latest event details

  • I tried it:– I gave it a go and discovered my roller ability might need a bit of practice! Full write up coming soon.

Go Coffee Raving

Possible THE best way to start your day.

Rant and Ramble presents Coffee Raves at various locations. Think huge tunes, live percussion, dynamic DJs and  if you still need perking up, coffee. All before 9am!

You’ll be warmly welcomed at the event, full of infectious, feel-good energy and bangers you can’t help having a bop to, for a massive dose of unbridled joy.

  • Good for: individuals | couples | small groups 

  • Cost: Tickets cost £12 per person

  • Find out more: visit the Rant and Ramble website for the latest details

  • I tried it: I absolutely loved kick starting my day with this. Full write up coming soon.

A room full of people dancing
Kick start your morning with a coffee rave

Try a Georgian dance class

York hosts an annual Georgian festival where you can discover many things from the period in history, including some of the dances.

Whisk yourself away to the time of Bridgerton and Pride and Prejudice, as you walk through the steps before putting them to music.

Will you be graceful and elegant, or will you have a case of  two left feet?

Try ice free curling

No brushing or ice required for a fun game of ice free curling regardless of the weather.

It’s a bit like bowling crossed with shuffleboard. Easy to pick up, and play can get very competitive.

Located at Roxy Ball Room which is like an adult play park, featuring booze and ball games, and, ice free curling. There are plenty of other activities to try there too.

Close up of stones on a rink for ice free curling, an example of one of the unusual things to do in York
Give ice free curling a go

Try morris dancing

A familiar sight at traditional fetes and fairs, morris dancing has been around for centuries combining patterns with movement. Did you know that you can give it a go?

York group, Acorn Morris, have been dancing since 1977.  They are a friendly bunch who dance the stick and handkerchief style, and you might spot them at events across York and beyond.

Get spooky and step into the strange

Go on a paranormal investigation

York is well known for its ghostly tales and haunted happenings. There are numerous tours snaking through the streets on an evening that you can join.

However, if you want to investigate further into the witching hour in some of the eerie and old buildings in the city, why not join a paranormal investigation?

Whether you’re a cynic or a believer, you’ll get hands on experience with tools and techniques as you attempt to connect with the unknown.

Interior of an old house with beams and an old fire place, and a paranormal investigation is taking place
Dare you make contact with the other side at a Paranormal investigation?

York Dungeon Lates

All of the gore and more. This is an adults only tour of York Dungeons. Your guides will lead you through the maze of mirth as you meet some of the truly despicable York residents from the past.

Be on your guard, as you never know who might pop up where, and be on your best behaviour, or you might be accused of some dastardly deeds too.

Balancing a fine line between entertainment and scares, you’ll discover the more grown-up tales from the dungeon after dark.

Take a Ghost Bus Tour

If you prefer to be scared silly, rather than scared stiff, the Ghost Bus Tour is a fantastically fun phantom spotting tour. 

Driving around the city on an old route master bus, your guide will tell you terrifying tales, stopping off at the sites of some horrible historic incidents, and trying to keep the passengers safe from any wayward spooks. Audience participation is fully encouraged.

  • Good for: individuals | couples | small groups | families
  • Cost: £18 per adult | £14 for children aged 5-15 | £49 family ticket | £15 for students, seniors & concessions
  • Find out more: York Ghost Bus Tour
  • I tried it: A brilliantly entertaining evening – full write up coming soon
A double decker black routemaster bus which has a sign on reading 'the ghost bus tour'
Dare you ride the Ghost Bus Tour

Make some potions

Potions cauldron is an intriguing little spot on the Shambles where the whimsical meets the magic.

Enter through the olde world apothecary as the ‘chemists’ cook up fanciful potions.

Make your way through to the interactive displays that deliver the story of the potion hunters whilst you sample some intriguing concoctions; glitter and sparkle, smoke and fog, whirling, swirling colours and exotic flavours, these are drinks with a difference. Including some adults only tipples!

  • Good for: individuals | couples | small groups | families

  • Cost: Adult tickets start from £8.99 | Children’s tickets start from £7.49

  • Find out more: at the Potions Cauldron website

  • I tried it: How did we get on experiencing some utterly bonkers liquids? Full write up coming soon.

Tarot reading and cocktails

Which cards will your tarot reading reveal?

Whether you believe someone can see your fortune, or you are just interested to discover it for yourself, you can combine a tarot reading with cocktails at York’s only speakeasy bar. Just make sure to sign up as a member before you go, (it’s free), so that you’ll receive the password to enter.

Tarot cards on a table
What does your fortune hold?

Visit A Puzzling World

If you like to give your brain a work out, challenge your perception, and boggle your mind, then you should definitely visit The Puzzling World of Professor Kettlestring.

This indoor attraction is a place where things are not quite as they seem, and perfect for some hilarious photo opportunities as you follow the life and times of Professor Kettlestring.

Watch, listen and join in

Aesthetica Short Film Festival

A truly phenomenal week in the York calendar each November. With screenings, workshops, interactive exhibitions, masterclasses, Q&As and plenty more, there’s something here for every film fan.

York is the first and only UK UNESCO City of Media Arts, and the festival is an amazing celebration of that.

With screenings across genres such as animation, comedy, drama, fashion, music, thriller, advertising, and many more, the festival is a destination for independent cinema. It’ll leave you feeling inspired and will spark your creativity. And, it happens in venues across the centre of York.

Lanyards and a booklet for the York Aesthetica Short Film Festival, one of the unusual things to do in York
The Aesthetica Short Film Festival is an incredible event in the city

Go behind the scenes of York Theatre Royal

Tread the boards and get to see parts of this historical building that many people seldom see.

The Theatre Royal was the first permanent theatre in York, established in 1734, and it’s seen a lot of change and a lot of performances. Discover some of the big names who’ve acted on the stage, why the green room has its name, and the ghost in the basement.

  • Good for: individuals | couples | small groups | families
  • Cost: £20 per person
  • Find out more: York Theatre Royal
  • I tried it: I loved discovering the history and the detail. Full write-up coming soon
Exterior of the old stone building that is York Theatre Royal
Visit York Theatre Royal and go behind the scenes

Innovation Supper

Ever fancied yourself on Dragon’s Den or SharkTank? If you have then get yourself along to an Innovation Supper.

These events give new businesses the opportunity to showcase their idea and pitch for an investment.

You’ll discover amazing ideas from local people, and meet inspirational entrepreneurs, and find out about new initiatives happening in the city.

Play open decks

Whatever format your play, why not have a go and play at open decks?

If you want to make the step from mixing your music at home to playing in public, the Crescent offers a weekly open decks session. Half hour slots can be filled with any genre and any level of dj-ing, making it a fantastic place to practice in public.

This former working men’s club has friendly staff,  and a welcoming audience on hand if you need any help with the kit. Free entry and cheap drinks.

Challenge Fifty-two, a white woman with dark hair on a mixing desk
Why not have a go at an open decks night?

Play Quingo

If a quiz and bingo had a love child, this would be it.

Spark is a fantastic venue to visit for food and drink, but when there’s the added bonus of Quingo on the card, then that’s even more reason to call in.

Teams of up to six people tax their brain with trivia in the hope of winning one of the prizes, and of course the bragging rights. Answer questions like a quiz, score points like bingo.

A fun Wednesday evening out.

Challenge Fifty-Two, a white woman with dark hair standing next to a sign advertising Quingo
If a quiz and bingo had a lovechild it would be Quingo!

Watch live snooker

The annual UK Championship snooker tournament is held at The Barbican in York. It’s a nail biting event in November that sees the last 32 competitors battling it out for the top prize and trophy.

If you’ve never been to watch live snooker before, the experience is incredible, with cat and mouse tactics and edge-of-your-seat moments.

If you’ve never seen live snooker before, I’d encourage you to give it a go. I was really surprised by how much I enjoyed it.

A live indoor snooker match in progress
If you've never watched live snooker before why not give it a go?

Watch a live football match

The York Minstermen moved into the LNER stadium a few years ago, and it’s a brilliant venue to watch the team.

York City have had many ups and downs, from promotions and relegations, to the ins and outs of being in a football league. With a capacity of 8,500, you can join the supporters at a home match, and give the boys your encouragement.

With plenty of opportunities for shopping and eating, and regular buses from the city centre, it’s easy to be a part of the action.

  • Good for: individuals | couples | groups | families
  • Cost: £24 for Adult match day tickets | £20 for concessions | £13 for 12-16 year olds | £10 for under 11s
  • Find out more: York City Football Club
  • I tried it: I watched my first ever live football match when they played at their old ground.  Full write up coming soon.

Watch a live rugby league match

York has two top flight teams and watching them play on their home turf really is a genuinely thrilling experience.

Soak up the atmosphere at the LNER stadium and enjoy the mighty York Knights or the magnificent York Valkyrie as they tackle, try and make running straight at people look easy.

A view of a rugby ground from the seats
Watch one of the top flight rugby league teams

Watch the Dragon Boat Race

The river Ouse runs through the centre of the city, and each July plays host to teams of up to 16 fancy dressed rowers in Dragon Boats, paddling hard to be crowned the winner.

Hosted by the York Rotary, this gala day supports local charities whilst providing a fun family friendly day out.

Printed race cards are available too so you can check who’s in which heat, and cheer on your favourites.

Explore York differently

Take a hot air balloon ride

Explore York from a different angle, and see the sights from the skies.

Experiencing a hot air balloon flight is on many people’s bucket lists, and rightly so. It’s an unforgettable journey that will take your breath away as you soar above the city.

Gliding smoothly through the sky at sunrise or sunset, and trying to spot the York landmarks from above is one of the most phenomenal things to try.

A red hot air balloon taking off on a misty morning
Seeing York from the air is a magical way to explore the city

Try Toastmasters

Toastmasters International is all about developing public speaking and leadership skills, and we have a friendly and encouraging club right here in York. It’s a brilliant way to explore different ideas.

The regular meetings include plenty of opportunities to learn tips and techniques, practice speaking in front of a supportive audience, and hear from others as they deliver their presentations.

There is a course you can work through if you are interested, or you can go for a visit to see what it’s all about before you commit.

  • Good for: individuals
  • Cost: free for visitors | £35 joining fee and £12 monthly fees for members
  • Find out more: take a look at the York Eborators Toastmasters website
  • I tried it: I joined the friendly group, for a creative, entertaining and informative evening. Full write up coming soon.

Play a digital treasure hunt

Quick and easy to sign up to, this treasure hunt is a brilliant way to explore the city.

From the tourist highlights to the little known corners, you’ll explore York and learn about the history in a fun and engaging way, and find things that are so easily missed.

Even though I’ve lived in York for over two decades, I still discovered something new!

A phone with clues on the screen for a treasure hunt
Can you solve the clues...
...and explore new parts of York?

Make use of a personal shopper

Whether you love or loathe retail therapy, a personal shopper can help you to find outfits for any occasion, explore your tastes, and make recommendations you might not have previously considered.

Taking into consideration your budget and preferences, you’ll be well looked after and shown a selection of items you might not ordinarily consider but be pleasantly surprised to discover suit you well. A fresh pair of eyes can re-fresh your wardrobe.

Available in Browns, Fenwicks and Mint Velvet

  • Good for: individuals | couples
  • Cost: The session is usually free and with no obligation to buy
  • Find out more: Fenwicks offer personal shopping for women and for men.  Brown’s and Mint Velvet also offer a personal shopping experience
  • I tried it: and loved having a fresh pair of eyes pick out some styles. Full write up coming soon.

Go to a lunchtime meditation

Giving yourself permission to pause and reset can be incredibly beneficial, and the York Buddhist Centre offer relaxing sessions to guide you through the practice.

When life is particularly busy, the idea of meditation may feel like a waste of time when you could be doing something which is visibly more productive. You may think you’ve so much going on in your mind that it won’t be able to switch off. That’s when meditation can perhaps be the most beneficial.

A welcoming group and a calming environment in the centre of the city await for your visit.

Exterior view of the York Buddhist Centre
Discover what it's like to try meditation

Join a Christmas walking tour

Obviously this one only runs in a certain season, but you’ll discover the role York has to play in many festive traditions, and how Christmas has been celebrated in the city.

York looks pretty at any time of year, but there’s something especially magical when it’s lit up with the twinkling lights and the shops are festooned with decorations.

This 90 minute winter wander will help you to discover why it has been suggested that York is Britain’s most Christmassy city.

Night time view looking along a narrow cobbled street with shops on either side and Christmas lights hanging between them.
Take a Christmas walking tour and discover why York might be the most Christmassy city

Follow the cat trail

Hidden across streets, riversides, and historic buildings, there are over 30 carefully placed cat sculptures waiting for you to discover them.

The map shows the locations of the cats, but they’re not always that obvious to see when you get there. Look high and low and see if you can find them all.

A quirky way to explore the city, and perfect combined with some cosy cafe pit stops.

  • Good for: individuals | couples | small groups | families
  • Cost: Free
  • Find out more: York Lucky Cats
  • I tried it: Despite regularly passing many of them, I still discovered some I’d never noticed before. Full write up coming soon.

You don't have to travel far to have an adventure

One of the things Challenge Fifty-Two has taught me is that you don’t necessarily need to get on a plane, book a holiday or head off into the wilderness to find something new.

Sometimes, an adventure is waiting just around the corner. Living in York has given me the opportunity to try things I might otherwise have overlooked, from unusual sports to creative workshops and experiences that have made me see my home city a little differently.

York has a wonderfully unexpected side

It’s easy to associate York with its medieval streets, historic buildings and ghost stories. But there’s another side to the city, too.

Where else can you try underwater hockey, learn light sabre combat, attend a Georgian dance class, investigate the paranormal or make your own potions?

That’s what I love about seeking out unusual experiences. They reveal a different side of a place, even somewhere you’ve called home for years.

And I've still got plenty left to try

This list isn’t finished. There are still experiences on my York wish list that I haven’t got around to yet, and I’m sure I’ll discover more along the way.

That’s the beauty of Challenge Fifty-Two. There’s always something new to try, something unexpected to discover and another opportunity to step outside my comfort zone.

I’ll keep adding to this guide as my adventures continue, so do come back and see what else I’ve discovered.

Have you tried any of these unusual things to do in York, or discovered something I should add to the list? I’d love to hear about it. I’m always looking for new ideas for Challenge 52!

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