Visit Foss Islands
Popular places to visit
York Minster
The city’s emblem is known for its superb stained-glass windows, underground treasure chambers and tall tower with spectacular views.
Shambles
This picturesque cobblestone street has a fascinating medieval history and crooked buildings that appear to almost fall into one another.
York Racecourse
You can take time to visit York Racecourse during your travels to York. Check out the shops and lively bars in this family-friendly area.
University of York
Enjoy the collegiate vibe at University of York during your stay in Heslington. Discover the lively bars and fascinating museums in this walkable area.
Jorvik Viking Centre
Imagine yourself as a Viking in this museum that allows you to dig up Norse artifacts and witness reenactments, while you learn about York’s Scandinavian settlers.
Castle Howard
You can find out about the history of Henderskelfe with a visit to Castle Howard. Check out the top-notch restaurants or lively bars in this relaxing area.
Things to do
City Sightseeing York Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
York: Witches and History Old Town Walking Tour
Nth York Moors Steam Train (incl) & Whitby Small Group Day Trip.
Foss Islands Hotel Deals
The Waggon & Horses
Great location, just outside the York wall.
Reviewed on May 10, 2026
Malmaison York
Beautiful property in the city centre - amazing bedrooms
Reviewed on May 12, 2026
Radisson Hotel York
Good location close to the station and the city centre. We booked to stay 3 nights and checked out after just one. Had upgraded to a minster view room, which did have a nice river view and the room looked nice enough. However, the mattress was so hard that we might as well have been sleeping on the ...
Reviewed on May 15, 2026
The Milner York
Nice room in lovely elegant surroundings, good service and food. Enjoyed stay
Reviewed on May 15, 2026
Delta Hotels by Marriott York
Room was clean. Breakfast was fresh and replenished quickly. Easy to use coffee machines and could order scrambled or poached eggs. Fried eggs out. Pool was great
Reviewed on May 12, 2026
The Grand, York
Dinner service was a disaster but we did get the bill cut in half, no questions. Hard mattress, and I normally like a hard mattress. Lovely hotel though
Reviewed on May 14, 2026
Other neighborhoods around Foss Islands
Layerthorpe
Layerthorpe might not have many top sights, but Merchant Adventurers' Hall and Shambles are two attractions nearby that you can check out.
City Centre
If you're spending some time in City Centre, Merchant Adventurers' Hall and Shambles are top sights worth seeing.
Hull Road
If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Hull Road and surrounding area, you can visit Walmgate Bar and York Barbican.
Fishergate
While visiting Fishergate, you might make a stop by sights like York Barbican and Kohima Museum.
The Groves
If you're spending some time in The Groves, Clarence Gardens and Yearsley Pool are top sights worth seeing.
Bishophill
While visiting Bishophill, you might make a stop by sights like Micklegate Bar and Yorvik Brass Rubbing Centre.
