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. Visit the shops and lively bars in this family-friendly area.
University of York
Explore the campus of University of York during your visit to Heslington. Discover the lively bars and fascinating museums in this walkable area.
York Barbican
Enjoy a show at York Barbican, a theatre with a story to tell in York. Make time for the shops and local tours 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.
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
Top hotels in Foss Islands
The Waggon & Horses
Room clean,nice bathroom,staff helpful.
Reviewed on 10 Feb 2026
Radisson Hotel York
Great location. Staff friendly and welcoming. Big roomy beds. Rooms clean and with all accessories as required.
Reviewed on 26 Mar 2026
Hampton by Hilton York Piccadilly
Lovely large clean room, friendly staff and very helpful, used just park for parking which was just across the road
Reviewed on 26 Mar 2026
The Milner York
This beautiful old building is such a lovely place to stay in York. The staff can’t do enough for you and the bedrooms are well equipped and very comfortable. The location for the Train station is perfect and It’s just a short walk into the city. Would highly recommend.
Reviewed on 26 Mar 2026
The Grand, York
Best hotel we have stayed in in the UK. First class. Best staff ever.
Reviewed on 26 Mar 2026
Hilton York
Good central location. Lots of restaurants and shops nearby. Room was clean I found the bed a little uncomfortable. Small bathroom.
Reviewed on 26 Mar 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Foss Islands
Layerthorpe
When in Layerthorpe, you can plan a visit to Merchant Taylors' Hall and Walmgate 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 Walmgate Bar and York Barbican 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.
