York Museum Gardens: A Historic Botanical Oasis in the Heart of York
Tranquil botanical gardens blending historic ruins and vibrant plant collections in the heart of York, open daily with free entry.
York Museum Gardens is a beautifully maintained botanical garden and historic park located in central York. Spanning over ten acres, it features a rich collection of trees, shrubs, and flowers set against the medieval ruins of St. Mary’s Abbey. Open daily from 9am to 6pm with free entry, the gardens offer tranquil walks, wildlife spotting, and cultural heritage in a serene urban oasis.
A brief summary to Museum Gardens
- Museum St, York, YO1 7FR, GB
- +441904687687
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-6 pm
- Thursday 9 am-6 pm
- Friday 9 am-6 pm
- Saturday 9 am-6 pm
- Sunday 9 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Visit on a weekday morning for a peaceful experience and to enjoy the gardens’ wildlife and plant collections at their best.
- Join the free community bird-watching group held monthly at the bird feeding station behind the rock garden.
- Take advantage of weekend guided garden tours with a suggested donation of £5 to learn about the gardens’ history and plants.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in the many grassy areas and benches scattered throughout the gardens.
- Respect garden rules: dogs must be on leads, no alcohol or barbecues, and avoid climbing on the historic ruins.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train and Walk
From York Railway Station, it is a pleasant 15 to 20-minute walk to York Museum Gardens through the city centre. The walk is mostly flat and accessible, with clear signage directing you to Museum Street or Marygate entrances. No cost involved.
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Bus
Local bus routes serving York city centre stop within a short walking distance of the gardens. Bus travel times vary from 10 to 30 minutes depending on your starting point. Single fares range from £2 to £4. Check local timetables for frequency and accessibility.
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Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services can drop you directly at the Museum Street entrance. Travel time from York Railway Station is approximately 5 to 10 minutes depending on traffic. Typical fare ranges from £5 to £10.
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Car Parking
Nearby public car parks in York city centre offer hourly and daily rates, typically £2 to £5 per hour. The gardens themselves do not have dedicated parking, so walking from parking areas is necessary. Some parking may have limited accessibility.
Museum Gardens location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Museum Gardens
A Living Botanical Heritage in York's City Centre
York Museum Gardens is a registered botanical garden established in the 1830s by the Yorkshire Philosophical Society. It covers over ten acres within the heart of York, just outside the ancient city walls. The gardens are renowned for their extensive collection of trees, shrubs, perennials, and bulbs, carefully curated and maintained to provide year-round interest. This living collection is complemented by the gardens’ status as a protected space that requires attentive care to preserve its unique flora and historic features.Historic Ruins and Cultural Layers
The gardens are set against the evocative backdrop of the medieval ruins of St. Mary’s Abbey, a Scheduled Monument that adds a profound sense of history and atmosphere. Visitors can explore the remains of the abbey, which intertwine with the natural beauty of the gardens, creating a unique blend of heritage and horticulture. The site also includes listed buildings and archaeological features, making it a place where nature and history coexist harmoniously.Spaces for Wildlife and Community Engagement
Beyond its botanical and historic significance, York Museum Gardens is a haven for local wildlife, including birds and small mammals. The gardens host community activities such as monthly bird-watching groups meeting at the bird feeding station behind the rock garden. Seasonal plant sales and a plant bench offer visitors the chance to take home a piece of the gardens. The gardens also feature an Edible Wood and an Artists’ Garden with outdoor exhibitions, fostering community creativity and environmental awareness.Visitor Experience and Amenities
Open daily from 9am to 6pm, the gardens welcome visitors free of charge, although donations are encouraged to support maintenance. A kiosk near the Museum Street entrance offers refreshments including sandwiches, cakes, and hot drinks. Picnic areas with plenty of benches and grassy spots make it an ideal place for a relaxed outdoor meal. The gardens are dog-friendly (on leads) and allow walking on the grass but prohibit alcohol, barbecues, ball games, climbing on ruins, and drone use to protect the environment and visitor safety.Events and Educational Opportunities
York Museum Gardens hosts regular events such as guided garden tours every weekend, with suggested donations supporting the gardens. It also serves as a venue for festivals like the Eboracum Festival and other community gatherings. The gardens provide educational facilities for school groups and corporate hospitality, emphasizing their role as a cultural and learning hub within York.Accessibility and Location
Situated close to York Railway Station and major city attractions, the gardens are easily accessible on foot. Entrances are available from Museum Street and Marygate. The site is wheelchair accessible with clear signage and accessible toilets. The gardens’ central location makes them a peaceful retreat amid the bustling city, offering iconic views of the river and cityscape.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Anglian Tower
0.1 km
Discover York’s rare Anglo-Saxon watchtower, a unique stone relic woven into ancient Roman walls and shrouded in centuries of history.
St. Leonard's Hospital
0.1 km
Explore the evocative ruins of York’s largest medieval hospital, where healing met faith in a grand historic sanctuary.
Bootham Bar
0.2 km
Explore Bootham Bar, York’s medieval gateway with Roman roots, historic portcullis, and stunning views of the city’s ancient walls and Minster.
York Gifts and Souvenirs
0.3 km
Explore York Gifts and Souvenirs for locally crafted treasures and unique gifts that capture the essence of York's rich history and culture.
Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours (formally BOBH)
0.3 km
Discover the enchanting landscapes and rich heritage of Yorkshire with personalized tours from Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours.
The Norman House
0.3 km
Discover York’s oldest medieval house, a Norman stone residence with rare surviving walls and a Norman window hidden behind Stonegate.
Historic England - York Office
0.4 km
Explore the Historic England - York Office, a hub for heritage preservation in the heart of York, where history meets contemporary conservation efforts.
The Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of St Peter in York
0.4 km
A soaring Gothic masterpiece in the heart of York, where 1,400 years of faith, history, and light-filled architecture converge in one of England’s greatest cathedrals.
Roman Column
0.4 km
A 7.6-metre Roman column where Constantine may have been declared Emperor, standing in the shadow of York Minster since 1971.
National Trust - Treasurer's House, York
0.5 km
Explore the grandeur of Treasurer's House in York, a captivating historical museum that unveils the rich tapestry of English heritage.
The Bloody Tour of York
0.5 km
Discover the haunted tales of York on The Bloody Tour, where history and ghostly legends intertwine for an unforgettable experience.
Sundial Column
0.5 km
An elegant 18th-century sundial column on stone lions, quietly marking time just east of York Minster in a peaceful corner of the cathedral precincts.
Medieval Walls
0.5 km
Walk England’s longest medieval walls, tracing 2,000 years of York’s history with stunning city views and iconic fortified gateways.
Robin Hood Tower
0.5 km
Explore York’s Victorian Robin Hood Tower, a striking city wall sentinel with historic charm and captivating views of medieval defenses and York Minster.
York's Chocolate Story
0.5 km
Explore the rich history of chocolate at York's Chocolate Story, where sweet indulgence meets captivating storytelling.
Unmissable attractions to see
York Observatory
0.0 km
Explore Yorkshire’s oldest working observatory nestled in York’s scenic Museum Gardens, home to historic telescopes and star clocks.
Yorkshire Museum
0.0 km
Explore Yorkshire’s rich history from prehistoric fossils to Viking treasures in York’s iconic Greek Revival museum nestled in tranquil gardens.
Multangular Tower
0.1 km
Explore York’s iconic ten-sided Roman tower blending ancient military might with medieval defense, nestled in serene Museum Gardens.
St Olave's Church York
0.1 km
Discover York’s medieval St Olave’s Church, a tranquil sanctuary rich in Viking heritage, stunning stained glass, and centuries of history.
Dame Judi Dench Walk
0.1 km
A peaceful riverside stroll in York honoring Dame Judi Dench, blending historic views with tranquil urban nature.
York Explore Library and Archive
0.1 km
York’s central library and city archives in a striking 1920s building, with books, study spaces, a café and regular free community events.
King's Manor - University of York
0.1 km
A historic Tudor and Stuart manor in York city centre, blending royal heritage with academic excellence since the 15th century.
Black window cat
0.2 km
Explore Black Window Cat in York, a vibrant tourist attraction blending art, culture, and community in a historic setting.
Locked in Games York
0.2 km
Solve puzzles, beat the clock and escape in York’s clever escape room centre near the museum gardens.
Invisible Cities - Walking Tours York
0.2 km
Alternative walking tours of York led by local guides with lived experience of homelessness, blending history, personal stories, and social impact.
Huntfun York
0.2 km
Explore York’s historic heart through a captivating, family-friendly treasure hunt filled with cryptic clues and hidden gems.
Barker Tower
0.2 km
Discover the medieval charm and historical significance of Barker Tower, a must-visit landmark in the heart of York.
Exhibition Square
0.2 km
A bustling cultural hub in York’s historic heart, Exhibition Square connects art, history, and vibrant city life.
York Theatre Royal
0.2 km
Discover York Theatre Royal, a historic gem blending medieval roots with Victorian Gothic and modernist design, alive with over 270 years of theatrical heritage.
The Red House Antique Centre
0.2 km
Discover a treasure trove of antiques and collectibles in York’s historic Red House, where over 60 dealers offer unique finds for every budget.
Essential places to dine
The Star Inn The City
0.1 km
Elegant riverside dining in York offering seasonal British cuisine with a rustic countryside charm and stunning views of the River Ouse.
Roots York
0.2 km
Discover Roots York, a Michelin-starred gem offering seasonal farm-to-table tasting menus in a historic 19th-century setting with warm, refined ambiance.
Brew & Brownie
0.2 km
Cozy family-run café in York serving locally inspired breakfasts, artisan coffee, and indulgent brownies in a rustic, welcoming setting.
Tomahawk Steakhouse York
0.3 km
Savor Himalayan salt dry-aged steaks and vibrant cocktails in the heart of York’s historic city centre at Tomahawk Steakhouse.
The Ivy St Helen's Square York
0.3 km
Elegant British brasserie in York’s historic heart, offering modern classics, vibrant interiors, and a lively yet refined atmosphere.
The Rise
0.3 km
Modern British dining with a Yorkshire twist in York’s only five-star hotel, featuring an open kitchen, terrace views, and award-winning afternoon tea.
The Botanist York
0.3 km
A vibrant botanical bar and restaurant on York’s historic Stonegate, blending fresh seasonal cuisine with live music and lush, nature-inspired interiors.
Kennedy's Bar & Restaurant
0.3 km
A vibrant York hotspot blending modern British cuisine, live music, and expertly crafted cocktails in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Guy Fawkes Inn
0.3 km
Historic inn with cozy period rooms, lively pub, and unbeatable central location near York Minster.
Forage Kitchen & Bar
0.3 km
Refined fire-cooked dishes and inventive Yorkshire cocktails in a lush, intimate setting on York’s historic Little Stonegate.
Bill's York Restaurant
0.3 km
Colourful British comfort food in a historic York building, perfect for brunch, burgers and cocktails in the city centre.
House Of The Trembling Madness // Stonegate (No table bookings)
0.3 km
A medieval ale house with a vast craft beer collection, quirky charm, and hearty Yorkshire fare in the heart of historic York.
Turtle Bay York
0.4 km
Experience authentic Caribbean flavors and vibrant island vibes in the heart of historic York at Turtle Bay.
Las Iguanas - York
0.4 km
Experience vibrant Latin American flavours and lively cocktails in York’s historic city centre at Las Iguanas.
Los Moros
0.4 km
Experience authentic North African cuisine with vibrant flavors and a rustic charm in the heart of historic York.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Imaginarium
0.2 km
Discover York’s enchanting Victorian-style curiosity shop filled with unique art, vintage-inspired homewares, and affordable luxuries.
The Yorkshire Soap Company - York
0.2 km
A fragrant, playful haven of handmade soaps and scented treats in the heart of York – perfect for gifts and a little indulgence.
Käthe Wohlfahrt
0.3 km
Experience authentic German Christmas magic year-round in York’s historic Tudor townhouse on Stonegate.
Rookscroft
0.4 km
Discover handcrafted treasures and local charm at Rookscroft, York’s cozy gift shop on historic Stonegate.
Shared Earth
0.4 km
Discover ethically sourced treasures and handcrafted fair trade gifts in the heart of historic York.
York Minster Shop
0.4 km
Discover authentic souvenirs and specialist books celebrating York Minster's medieval heritage.
Snowhome
0.4 km
Discover Snowhome, York’s premier independent lifestyle store blending exquisite stationery, niche perfumes, and sustainable home accessories since 2001.
Hidden Treasures
0.4 km
Discover unique crystals and spiritual tools in a tranquil metaphysical shop at York’s George Hudson Street.
The Cat Gallery
0.4 km
York's iconic independent gift shop celebrating all things feline since 2001.
SOCTOPUS
0.4 km
Discover York’s playful sock boutique blending British humour, culture, and quirky style in every colourful pair.
Paper Doll
0.4 km
Discover unique, colourful fashion and artisan jewellery in York’s charming Paper Doll boutique, a hidden gem for stylish and distinctive finds.
York Souvenirs and Gifts
0.5 km
Authentic Yorkshire souvenirs and handcrafted gifts in the heart of historic York’s medieval streets.
Cello by Collectables
0.5 km
Explore Cello by Collectables, a charming gift shop in York offering unique handcrafted treasures that embody the city's rich culture.
Fairer World
0.5 km
Discover unique fair trade treasures and support global artisans at York’s dedicated ethical gift shop on historic Gillygate.
Pandora
0.5 km
Discover elegant, hand-finished jewellery crafted with care and inspired by timeless style at Pandora on Low Petergate, York.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
House Of Trembling Madness // Lendal (No table bookings)
0.2 km
Step into York’s medieval gem where historic ambiance meets an extraordinary craft beer selection in a quirky, lively setting.
The Maltings
0.2 km
A quirky, friendly pub in York offering a wide beer selection and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Tanner's Moat.
Eagle & Child
0.3 km
Historic 17th-century timber-framed pub in York offering craft ales, good food, and a charming beer garden in a quaint, lively setting.
Lendal Cellars
0.3 km
Historic underground pub with a quirky atmosphere, diverse menu, and a rare city-center beer garden in York.
Ye Olde Starre Inne
0.3 km
Historic and welcoming pub on York’s Stonegate, serving hearty British classics in a charming medieval setting.
The Punch Bowl
0.3 km
A historic York pub blending traditional charm, eclectic ales, and hearty British fare in a cozy, welcoming setting on Stonegate.
Revolution York
0.3 km
Lively riverside bar and restaurant in York’s historic centre with multiple bars, garden terrace, and a vibrant atmosphere for all occasions.
Evil Eye
0.3 km
Quirky cocktails and lively entertainment blend seamlessly in York’s vibrant Evil Eye Lounge on historic Stonegate.
Bobos Cocktail Bar York
0.4 km
York’s vibrant two-floor cocktail bar with tropical drinks, heated shisha terrace, lively DJs, and unbeatable drink deals in the historic Quarter.
Dusk
0.4 km
A quirky and welcoming bar in York’s city centre, perfect for lively nights and casual drinks in a vibrant atmosphere.
Pitcher & Piano York
0.4 km
Lively riverside bar on Coney Street blending modern British cuisine, vibrant social events, and scenic views of the River Ouse in York.
Slug & Lettuce - Swinegate York
0.4 km
A lively cocktail bar and casual dining spot in York’s historic centre, perfect for social drinks, events, and weekend late nights.
Oscar's Wine Bar & Bistro
0.4 km
A lively and welcoming wine bar in York offering quality food, diverse wines, and a charming atmosphere for all occasions.
Victor J's
0.4 km
Eclectic art-inspired bar and restaurant in York’s heart, offering cozy seating, creative vibes, and lively weekend nights.
York Tap
0.5 km
Discover York Tap, a historic Edwardian pub at York Station, offering 32 rotating craft beer lines and a lively atmosphere for beer lovers.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Flares - York
0.3 km
Experience York’s ultimate retro nightclub with decades-spanning hits, vibrant dance floors, and an inclusive party atmosphere.
BlueBox
0.4 km
York’s premier late-night nightclub, BlueBox pulses with House, Tech House, and Disco beats until dawn in a vibrant city-center setting.
Club Salvation
0.4 km
York’s vibrant nightclub with dual music rooms, lively atmosphere, and fair-priced drinks for an unforgettable night out.
Popworld York
0.5 km
York’s vibrant pop music nightclub with a unique revolving dancefloor and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Ziggy's Bar & Nightclub
0.5 km
York’s iconic student nightclub offering energetic dance floors, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere since the 1980s.
Bar 55 York
0.5 km
York’s exclusive strip club offering sophisticated adult entertainment and premium nightlife in a stylish, historic setting.
Kuda
0.7 km
York’s vibrant nightclub offering diverse music, live DJs, and a lively late-night atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Karaoke Rooms (KTV)
1.6 km
Experience lively private karaoke rooms in the heart of York’s vibrant nightlife at Chuandao Karaoke Bar.
Big Fellas Nightclub
33.5 km
A lively and casual nightclub in Pontefract offering energetic late-night dancing and drinks in a central urban setting.
Arabian Night Lounge
33.8 km
Dive into Arabian enchantment on Leeds' nightlife scene: shisha, beats, and opulent vibes await at this Cherry Row gem.
Quadrophenia Night
34.4 km
Rev up for mod anthems, live ska-soul bands, and 60s film vibes at Leeds' ultimate Quadrophenia tribute night—pure energy and rebellion on the dancefloor.
The Lab Nightclub Leeds
34.6 km
Experience Leeds' electric nightlife at The Lab Nightclub, where music flows smoothly and the party never stops in the heart of the city.
Disco Stu's
34.6 km
Pulse-pounding beats and sticky-floored euphoria on Vicar Lane—Disco Stu's delivers unfiltered Leeds nightlife with affordable drinks and all-night energy.
The Key Club
34.8 km
Intimate, no-frills live-music club in central Leeds where punk, indie and alternative acts play close and loud beneath Merrion Street.
PRYZM
34.8 km
Leeds' multi-themed superclub where futuristic beats meet quirky rooms in the heart of Arena Quarter nightlife.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
