Visit Foss Islands
Popular places to visit
Shambles
This picturesque cobblestone street has a fascinating medieval history and crooked buildings that appear to almost fall into one another.
York Minster
The city’s emblem is known for its superb stained-glass windows, underground treasure chambers and tall tower with spectacular views.
York Racecourse
You can take time to visit York Racecourse during your travels to York. Visit the shops and lively bars in this family-friendly 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.
York St. John University
Explore the campus of York St. John University as part of your travels around York. Discover the area's shops or seek out its local tours.
York City Walls
See some of York’s most impressive sights on a walk around the historic perimeter wall that has its origins in the Roman era.
Things to do
City Sightseeing York Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
York: Witches and History Old Town Walking Tour
York Audio Tour: Ghosts, History, and Chocolate
York: Golden Tours Hop-on Hop-off Open Top Bus Tour- 24 Hours Ticket
York Historical Gems Tour & A Taste of York Chocolate
Top hotels in Foss Islands
The Milner York
Hotel was wonderful, very well set out junior suite with a great aspect towards York cathedral.
Reviewed on 1 Jan 2026
Moxy York
First time staying at a Moxy hotel and we will definitely use this brand in the future
Reviewed on 27 Dec 2025
Malmaison York
Excellent stay. Couldn't fsult the place
Reviewed on 29 Dec 2025
Delta Hotels by Marriott York
Staff were excellent and couldn't done enough. Yes, rooms are tired looking, but you can overlook that if staff are accommodating.
Reviewed on 29 Dec 2025
Hampton by Hilton York Piccadilly
I stayed here with my partner for 1 night. It was located very near to a venue we were attending so that is how we came to choose this hotel. The room was a good size with a very nice shower room. The water pressure was quite weak however but for one night it wasn’t a problem. Sleep quality was good ...
Reviewed on 1 Jan 2026
Hotel Indigo York by IHG
clean room thank you
Reviewed on 1 Jan 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Foss Islands
Layerthorpe
When in Layerthorpe, you can plan a visit to Merchant Taylors' Hall and Monk Bar, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.
City Centre
If you're spending some time in City Centre, Merchant Adventurers' Hall and Shambles are top sights worth seeing.
Hull Road
Hull Road might not have many top sights, but York Barbican and Walmgate Bar are two attractions nearby that you can check out.
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
If you're spending some time in Bishophill, Micklegate Bar and Yorvik Brass Rubbing Centre are top sights worth seeing.
