Yorkshire Museum: A Journey Through Time in York’s Historic Gardens
Explore Yorkshire’s rich history from prehistoric fossils to Viking treasures in York’s iconic Greek Revival museum nestled in tranquil gardens.
Located within the serene Museum Gardens in York, the Yorkshire Museum offers an immersive exploration of the region’s rich archaeological, geological, and natural history. Housed in a striking Greek Revival building, it showcases treasures from prehistoric times through the medieval era, including rare Viking artifacts and dinosaur fossils. The museum’s engaging exhibitions and historic setting make it a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and families alike.
A brief summary to Yorkshire Museum
- Museum Gardens, Museum Street, York, YO1 7FR, GB
- +441904687687
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Purchase tickets online in advance to avoid queues, especially during weekends and holidays.
- Allow 1 to 2 hours to fully explore the museum’s extensive collections and special exhibitions.
- Visit the Museum Gardens for a relaxing stroll before or after your museum tour.
- Check for special exhibitions like Viking North or Star Carr for unique insights into Yorkshire’s past.
- Use the accessible entrance and facilities if mobility assistance is needed; staff are happy to help.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Accessible Toilets
Getting There
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Train and Walk
From York Railway Station, it is a 10 to 15-minute walk to the Yorkshire Museum through the city centre. The route is mostly flat and accessible, passing key landmarks. No additional transport cost beyond your train fare.
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Bus
Several local bus routes serve stops near Museum Gardens, including the number 12 and 13 buses. Travel times vary from 10 to 20 minutes from central York. A single bus ticket costs approximately £2.50. Check schedules for frequency and accessibility.
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Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services from York city centre to the museum take about 5 to 10 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares around £5 to £8. This option is convenient for those with limited mobility or carrying luggage.
Yorkshire Museum 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 Yorkshire Museum
Architectural Heritage and Setting
The Yorkshire Museum stands as one of England’s earliest purpose-built museums, opened in 1830 to house the collections of the Yorkshire Philosophical Society. Designed by William Wilkins in the Greek Revival style, its neo-classical façade with imposing columns evokes the grandeur of an ancient Greek temple, symbolizing a ‘shrine to science.’ The museum is nestled within York’s Museum Gardens, a tranquil green space that surrounds the building and incorporates the remains of St Mary’s Abbey, visible in the museum’s basement. The Tempest Anderson Hall, an early reinforced concrete structure added in 1912, complements the historic architecture and hosts lectures and events.Collections Spanning Millennia
The museum’s extensive collections cover Yorkshire’s archaeology, geology, palaeontology, and natural history. Visitors can trace human history from the Mesolithic period, highlighted by artefacts from the Star Carr site, through Roman and Viking eras, to medieval York. Noteworthy exhibits include the Middleham Jewel, a rare medieval gold pendant, and the Viking North exhibition, showcasing magnificent Viking finds from northern England. The palaeontology displays feature dinosaur fossils, including the oldest true sauropod remains found in the UK, alongside marine reptiles like ichthyosaurs, bringing prehistoric life vividly to the fore.Engaging Exhibitions and Educational Experiences
The Yorkshire Museum continually refreshes its offerings with interactive and family-friendly exhibitions. Recent highlights include the Star Carr exhibition exploring life after the last Ice Age, and the Mary Anning Rocks display celebrating the pioneering 19th-century palaeontologist. The Viking North exhibition, opening in July 2025, presents an unparalleled collection of Viking artefacts outside London, enriching understanding of the Viking Age in northern England. These exhibitions combine cutting-edge research with innovative displays, making history accessible and engaging for all ages.Visitor Facilities and Accessibility
Open Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 5pm, the museum offers a welcoming environment with full wheelchair access to the lower and ground floors, a lift, and accessible toilets. While the first floor has some limitations, staff provide assistance to ensure all visitors can enjoy the experience. The museum is located within easy walking distance from York Railway Station and the city centre, with entrances to Museum Gardens from Museum Street and Marygate. Visitor amenities include information boards, seating areas, and nearby food and drink options within the gardens.Historical and Cultural Significance
The Yorkshire Museum not only preserves but actively interprets the rich cultural heritage of York and its surrounding region. It serves as a vital link connecting visitors to the ancient past, from prehistoric hunters and Roman settlers to medieval artisans and Viking warriors. Its location on the historic abbey grounds and its role as a centre for scientific and archaeological study underscore its importance as a cultural landmark. The museum’s ongoing commitment to education and conservation ensures that Yorkshire’s stories continue to inspire future generations.Atmosphere and Visitor Experience
Visitors to the Yorkshire Museum experience a blend of scholarly reverence and family-friendly curiosity. The serene gardens provide a peaceful backdrop, while the museum’s thoughtfully curated galleries invite exploration and discovery. The combination of historic architecture, fascinating artefacts, and engaging storytelling creates a memorable journey through time. Whether intrigued by ancient fossils, medieval treasures, or Viking lore, guests leave with a deeper appreciation of Yorkshire’s unique heritage.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
0.2 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)
0.2 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.
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.
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.
Holy Trinity Church, Goodramgate
0.5 km
Explore the serene beauty and rich history of Holy Trinity Church in York, a captivating Anglican landmark and must-visit tourist attraction.
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
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
0.1 km
Explore Yorkshire’s oldest working observatory nestled in York’s scenic Museum Gardens, home to historic telescopes and star clocks.
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.
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.
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.
Black window cat
0.1 km
Explore Black Window Cat in York, a vibrant tourist attraction blending art, culture, and community in a historic setting.
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.
Exhibition Square
0.2 km
A bustling cultural hub in York’s historic heart, Exhibition Square connects art, history, and vibrant city life.
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.
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.
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.
William Etty
0.2 km
A dignified granite statue in Exhibition Square honoring York-born William Etty, a pioneering painter of nudes and historical scenes.
Huntfun York
0.2 km
Explore York’s historic heart through a captivating, family-friendly treasure hunt filled with cryptic clues and hidden gems.
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.
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.
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.
Tomahawk Steakhouse York
0.2 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 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.
Guy Fawkes Inn
0.3 km
Historic inn with cozy period rooms, lively pub, and unbeatable central location near York Minster.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Turtle Bay York
0.3 km
Experience authentic Caribbean flavors and vibrant island vibes in the heart of historic York at Turtle Bay.
Los Moros
0.4 km
Experience authentic North African cuisine with vibrant flavors and a rustic charm in the heart of historic York.
Côte York
0.4 km
Experience authentic Parisian brasserie dining with classic French dishes and warm hospitality 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
0.3 km
Discover handcrafted treasures and local charm at Rookscroft, York’s cozy gift shop on historic Stonegate.
Shared Earth
0.3 km
Discover ethically sourced treasures and handcrafted fair trade gifts in the heart of historic York.
York Minster Shop
0.3 km
Discover authentic souvenirs and specialist books celebrating York Minster's medieval heritage.
Snowhome
0.3 km
Discover Snowhome, York’s premier independent lifestyle store blending exquisite stationery, niche perfumes, and sustainable home accessories since 2001.
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.
Hidden Treasures
0.4 km
Discover unique crystals and spiritual tools in a tranquil metaphysical shop at York’s George Hudson Street.
York Souvenirs and Gifts
0.4 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.
Eagle & Child
0.2 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.
The Maltings
0.3 km
A quirky, friendly pub in York offering a wide beer selection and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Tanner's Moat.
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.
Evil Eye
0.3 km
Quirky cocktails and lively entertainment blend seamlessly in York’s vibrant Evil Eye Lounge on historic 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.
Bobos Cocktail Bar York
0.3 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.
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.
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.
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.
Vudu Lounge
0.4 km
York’s eclectic after-hours lounge blending quality cocktails with a lively, quirky nightlife vibe until the early morning.
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
34.7 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
34.7 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
34.9 km
Leeds' multi-themed superclub where futuristic beats meet quirky rooms in the heart of Arena Quarter nightlife.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Cultural Heritage
- Family Friendly
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Historic
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Protected Area
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
