York Museum Gardens: A Historic Botanical Sanctuary in the Heart of York
Discover York Museum Gardens: a historic botanical oasis blending medieval ruins, lush greenery, and vibrant community life in the city centre.
York Museum Gardens is a stunning botanical garden set within the city centre of York, England. Established in the 1830s, it features a rich collection of trees, shrubs, and flowers alongside the medieval ruins of St. Mary’s Abbey. Open daily with free entry, the gardens offer tranquil green space, historical monuments, and seasonal exhibitions, making it a perfect blend of nature, history, and culture.
A brief summary to Museum Gardens
- Museum St, York, YO1 7FR, GB
- +441904687687
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
-
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 the weekend garden tours at 12pm for an insightful exploration of the gardens’ history and plants.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in designated areas but remember alcohol and barbecues are not permitted.
- Use nearby public toilets at Bootham Bar or inside the Yorkshire Museum as there are no toilets inside the gardens.
- Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a lead to protect wildlife and other visitors.
- Check out the Artists’ Garden for seasonal outdoor exhibitions showcasing local creativity.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Train and Walk
From York Railway Station, it takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes on foot to reach York Museum Gardens. The walk is on paved city streets suitable for most mobility levels, with clear signage directing to Museum Street and Marygate entrances.
-
Bus
Local bus services connect York city centre to stops near Museum Street. Travel times vary between 10 and 20 minutes depending on route and traffic. Buses run frequently during the day, but check schedules for evening and weekend service.
-
Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central York locations to Museum Gardens typically takes 5 to 10 minutes. This option is convenient for travelers with limited mobility or those carrying picnic supplies. Prices generally range from £5 to £10.
Museum Gardens location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Museum Gardens
Origins and Historical Significance
York Museum Gardens were founded in the 1830s by the Yorkshire Philosophical Society with the vision of creating a botanical haven in the city. The gardens are uniquely set against the evocative backdrop of the medieval ruins of St. Mary’s Abbey, a Scheduled Monument that adds a profound historical dimension. This fusion of natural beauty and heritage creates a space where visitors can connect with York’s rich past while enjoying the serenity of cultivated landscapes.Botanical Richness and Garden Features
Spanning over ten acres, the gardens boast an impressive collection of trees, shrubs, perennials, and bulbs, many of which are rare or historically significant. Registered as botanical gardens rather than a typical city park, the site demands careful maintenance to preserve its diverse plant species. Notable features include the Edible Wood, where visitors can explore a variety of fruit-bearing plants, and the Artists’ Garden, which hosts changing outdoor exhibitions that celebrate creativity in nature.Visitor Experience and Amenities
The gardens are open daily from 9am to 6pm, welcoming visitors free of charge as part of the charitable work of York Museums Trust. While there are no public toilets within the gardens themselves, accessible facilities are available nearby in the Yorkshire Museum and at Bootham Bar. Refreshments can be enjoyed at a kiosk near the Museum Street entrance offering sandwiches, cakes, and drinks. Picnics are encouraged, but alcohol and barbecues are prohibited to maintain the gardens’ peaceful atmosphere.Community Engagement and Events
York Museum Gardens actively engage the community through regular events and activities. Garden tours are held every weekend, offering visitors insights into the botanical and historical aspects for a suggested donation. Monthly community bird-watching meetings take place behind the rock garden, fostering local wildlife appreciation. Seasonal plant sales and a plant bench outside the Yorkshire Museum provide opportunities to purchase plants cultivated on-site.Conservation and Sustainability Efforts
As a registered botanical garden with Scheduled Monuments, the York Museum Gardens are managed with a strong emphasis on conservation and sustainability. The gardens are maintained to high standards to protect both the plant collections and the historic ruins. Visitors are encouraged to respect the environment by following guidelines such as keeping dogs on leads, dismounting bicycles, and taking litter away, supporting the gardens’ long-term preservation.Location and Surroundings
Situated in central York, the gardens lie close to key city attractions including the Yorkshire Museum and York Art Gallery. The peaceful green space offers a scenic retreat from the bustling city streets, with picturesque walkways and picnic areas. The gardens’ proximity to York Railway Station and Lendal Bridge makes them easily accessible for visitors exploring the city’s cultural heritage.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Multangular Tower
0.1 km
Discover the historical Multangular Tower in York, a remarkable relic of Roman architecture nestled within the tranquil York Museum Gardens.
St Olave's Church York
0.1 km
Explore St Olave's Church in York, a stunning Anglican heritage site with rich history, exquisite architecture, and peaceful ambiance, perfect for tourists.
Anglian Tower
0.1 km
Explore the Anglian Tower, a stunning historical landmark in York that captures the city's rich heritage and architectural grandeur.
St. Leonard's Hospital
0.1 km
Explore the rich history of St. Leonard's Hospital in York, a medieval landmark showcasing compassionate care through centuries.
King's Manor - University of York
0.1 km
Explore the historic King's Manor at the University of York, where academic excellence meets stunning architecture in the heart of the city.
William Etty
0.2 km
Explore the artistic legacy of William Etty in York’s Exhibition Square, where history and culture come alive in a stunning sculpture.
York City Sightseeing
0.2 km
Discover York's rich history and vibrant culture through unforgettable tours with City Sightseeing, your gateway to the city's iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
Bootham Bar
0.2 km
Discover the historical significance and architectural beauty of Bootham Bar, a captivating landmark in the heart of York, England.
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
Explore The Norman House, a historical gem in the heart of York, showcasing 12th-century architecture and the rich stories of medieval life.
Shadows of York Ghost Walk
0.3 km
Experience York's haunted history with the Shadows of York Ghost Walk, a thrilling journey through the city's ghostly past and chilling legends.
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
Discover the architectural marvel of York Minster, a stunning Gothic cathedral that embodies centuries of history and artistry in the heart of York.
Roman Column
0.4 km
Explore the rich history of York at the Roman Column, an iconic landmark that tells the story of its Roman heritage and architectural beauty.
Unmissable attractions to see
Museum Gardens
0.0 km
Discover York Museum Gardens: a historic botanical oasis blending medieval ruins, lush greenery, and vibrant community life in the city centre.
York Observatory
0.0 km
Discover the wonders of astronomy at York Observatory in the enchanting Museum Gardens, a unique destination for stargazers and history enthusiasts.
Yorkshire Museum
0.0 km
Discover the rich heritage and captivating artifacts of Yorkshire at the Yorkshire Museum, a must-visit cultural attraction in the heart of York.
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.
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
Explore the rich history and vibrant community at York Explore Library and Archive, a cultural gem in the heart of York offering books, activities, and more.
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
Challenging and creative escape rooms set in York’s historic Club Chambers, perfect for groups seeking immersive fun and clever puzzles.
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
Experience the cultural heart of York at Exhibition Square, where history, art, and vibrant city life come together in a picturesque setting.
York Theatre Royal
0.2 km
Discover the enchanting world of theatre at York Theatre Royal, where timeless performances and contemporary creativity come together in a magnificent setting.
Association Of Voluntary Guides Meeting Place
0.2 km
Starting point for free, expert-led walking tours revealing York’s rich history and vibrant culture every day except Christmas.
York Art Gallery
0.2 km
Explore the stunning art and rich history at York Art Gallery, a cultural gem in the heart of York, showcasing masterpieces and contemporary works.
Essential places to dine
The Star Inn The City
0.1 km
Experience exquisite modern European cuisine at The Star Inn The City, a riverside gem in York known for its seasonal dishes and elegant ambiance.
Roots York
0.2 km
Discover fine dining at Roots York - where locally sourced ingredients meet innovative cuisine in an elegant setting.
Brew & Brownie
0.2 km
Experience the perfect blend of delightful breakfasts and decadent chocolate treats at Brew & Brownie in York.
Mannion & Co
0.2 km
Discover Mannion & Co, a charming bistro in York offering delicious locally sourced dishes and a cozy atmosphere perfect for all occasions.
Tomahawk Steakhouse York
0.3 km
Discover exquisite steaks and crafted cocktails at Tomahawk Steakhouse York - a must-visit destination for food lovers in the heart of Yorkshire.
The Ivy St Helen's Square York
0.3 km
Discover The Ivy St Helen's Square in York - where British cuisine meets elegant dining in a historic setting.
The Rise
0.3 km
Discover culinary excellence at The Rise in York—where bistro charm meets exquisite flavors in an elegant setting.
The Botanist York
0.3 km
Experience exceptional British cuisine at The Botanist York – where tradition meets modern dining in a vibrant atmosphere.
Kennedy's Bar & Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere at Kennedy's Bar & Restaurant in York – your go-to spot for modern British cuisine and live music.
Forage Kitchen & Bar
0.3 km
Experience local flavors at Forage Kitchen & Bar in York - where fresh ingredients meet culinary creativity for an unforgettable dining experience.
Bill's York Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience modern European dining at Bill's York Restaurant; where British flavors meet contemporary style in the heart of York.
House Of The Trembling Madness // Stonegate (No table bookings)
0.3 km
Discover the House of the Trembling Madness in York - where culinary delights meet historic charm and craft beer excellence.
Turtle Bay York
0.4 km
Discover vibrant Caribbean flavors at Turtle Bay York with delicious dishes and refreshing cocktails in a lively atmosphere.
Las Iguanas - York
0.4 km
Experience vibrant Latin American flavors at Las Iguanas in York – perfect for brunch, tapas, cocktails & unforgettable moments.
Los Moros
0.4 km
Experience authentic North African cuisine at Los Moros in York—where every dish tells a story!
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Red House Antique Centre
0.2 km
Discover unique antiques and vintage treasures at The Red House Antique Centre, a must-visit destination for history lovers in York.
The Imaginarium
0.2 km
Explore The Imaginarium in York for a delightful array of unique gifts and homewares, showcasing local craftsmanship and creativity.
The Yorkshire Soap Company - York
0.2 km
Discover The Yorkshire Soap Company in York: a charming gift shop offering handmade soaps and indulgent bath products that capture the essence of Yorkshire.
Käthe Wohlfahrt
0.3 km
Explore Käthe Wohlfahrt in York, a magical gift shop filled with Christmas treasures and unique souvenirs for all ages.
York Armoury
0.3 km
Explore York Armoury for unique gifts and local crafts that embody the rich heritage and charm of York, England.
Rookscroft
0.4 km
Explore Rookscroft, a charming gift shop in York, offering unique handcrafted items and local treasures for memorable souvenirs.
Shared Earth
0.4 km
Discover a world of unique, eco-friendly gifts at Shared Earth, York's premier destination for sustainable shopping and ethical souvenirs.
York Minster Shop
0.4 km
Explore the York Minster Shop for unique gifts, local artisan products, and insightful books in the heart of historic York.
Snowhome
0.4 km
Discover unique gifts and home decor at Snowhome, York's charming shop for local craftsmanship and stylish finds.
Hidden Treasures
0.4 km
Explore Hidden Treasures in York, a metaphysical supply shop offering unique crystals, tools, and gifts for spiritual seekers and curious travelers.
The Cat Gallery
0.4 km
Discover unique cat-themed gifts and art at The Cat Gallery in York, a must-visit for all feline enthusiasts.
SOCTOPUS
0.4 km
Explore SOCTOPUS in York for unique gifts that reflect local craftsmanship and the spirit of this historic city.
Paper Doll
0.4 km
Discover unique fashion and handcrafted jewelry at Paper Doll, a chic ladies' clothes shop in the heart of York.
York Souvenirs and Gifts
0.5 km
Explore York Souvenirs and Gifts for unique keepsakes, local crafts, and treasures that capture the charm of historic York.
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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
House Of Trembling Madness // Lendal (No table bookings)
0.2 km
Discover the charm of York at the House of Trembling Madness, a historic bar with a vast selection of craft beers and a cozy atmosphere.
The Maltings
0.2 km
Discover The Maltings in York – A charming pub with quirky decor, local beers, and a welcoming atmosphere for a perfect evening.
Eagle & Child
0.3 km
Discover the Eagle & Child, a historic pub in York offering delicious food, craft ales, and a charming atmosphere perfect for tourists.
Lendal Cellars
0.3 km
Discover the charm of Lendal Cellars in York, where historic ambiance meets delightful British cuisine and local ales.
Ye Olde Starre Inne
0.3 km
Experience the charm of Ye Olde Starre Inne, a historic pub in York offering traditional British cuisine and fine ales in a cozy atmosphere.
The Punch Bowl
0.3 km
Experience the heart of York at The Punch Bowl, a traditional pub offering hearty meals and a vibrant atmosphere.
Revolution York
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and diverse menu at Revolution York, your go-to lounge and restaurant in the heart of the city.
Evil Eye
0.3 km
Discover the enchanting world of cocktails at Evil Eye in York, where creativity meets vibrant nightlife in a charming setting.
Bobos Cocktail Bar York
0.4 km
Discover Bobos Cocktail Bar in York, where vibrant cocktails and an inviting ambiance await you for a memorable night out.
Dusk
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of York at Dusk, where great drinks and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.
Pitcher & Piano York
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Pitcher & Piano York, where riverside views meet a fantastic selection of drinks in a lively setting.
Slug & Lettuce - Swinegate York
0.4 km
Discover the lively ambiance and delicious offerings at Slug & Lettuce - Swinegate, York's premier cocktail bar and restaurant.
Oscar's Wine Bar & Bistro
0.4 km
Discover the elegant charm of Oscar's Wine Bar & Bistro in York, where exquisite wines meet delectable cuisine in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Victor J's
0.4 km
Discover Victor J's Art Bar in York, where culinary delights meet artistic expression in a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.
York Tap
0.5 km
Experience the heart of York's pub culture at York Tap, where craft beers and a cozy atmosphere await every visitor.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
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
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
