Bridget (NOT) abroad: York guides

York is a home from home for so many. You can’t deny it’s beauty and softening architecture which cascades through the l winding streets. It’s easy to see why so many fall in love with its charms and quirks. For all that it has, I’ll undeniably still refrain from indulging in the Harry Potter tourism which populates the area. The people may have a point, they may not, but I’m not wielding to it. Therefore this is not a guide for the budding Harry Potter fan turned tourist, however a love letter to the rest of York if you’re passing through and looking for something to savour.

Flori. Flori will always have my heart for buttery pastries and frothy lattes. If I could do anything in life I would work at flori and spend the days cycling and picking wild flowers. Dreamy. A close second is Little Arras who produce delightful coffee and freshly baked sourdough. Huge cookies and low prices are a solid talking point. Another conversation start is Kiosk, situated on Fossgate. Plenty of vegan options and fresh coffee grind daily. Top tier.

Restaurant wise Yak and Yeti is a Nepalese restaurant hidden from view. Go upstairs to be treated to some fine cuisine. Don’t be deceived by the small entrance, the room quickly opens up and if you don’t book you are near guaranteed disappoint when trying to secure a seat. Spark is fun for all ages and just joy in shopping container form. They do Quingo (quiz cross bingo), beers, pizza, yoga, tattoos, gel nails, aromatherapy, co working and burrito’s. Normally I would disdain at such a combo. This works. And you can bring dogs.

Activities ossie yoga is a winner and strawberry picking in the summer in the fields of Balloon Tree Farm. I like wholesome things if you can’t tell. Red goat has a super cool climbing wall - you need to do a crash course but it’s certainly a skill. Agility is like ninja warrior and you’ll break the age limit, it’s fun and pure.

Last but not least watering holes. Dusk for cocktails and excellent deals (2 for 1 before 10 Thursday to Sunday and every other day all day). Pub vibes head to market cat or guy Fawkes. Wholesome and not too studenty. For a cool bar and cocktail conesuir evil eye is your jam. All independent and Johnnie Depps to bar. Boom.