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.
Castle Howard
You can find out about the history of Henderskelfe with a stop at Castle Howard. Visit the top-notch restaurants or lively bars in this relaxing 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
Nth York Moors Steam Train (incl) & Whitby Small Group Day Trip.
York: Witches and History Old Town Walking Tour
York: Castle Howard House and Gardens - Self-Guided
Top hotels in Foss Islands
The Waggon & Horses
"Clean and tidy Friendly staff Good breakfast"
Reviewed on 18 May 2026
Malmaison York
"We really enjoyed our stay this hotel was amazing very clean staff great and fantastic location"
Reviewed on 18 May 2026
Radisson Hotel York
"Great location. Friendly staff."
Reviewed on 18 May 2026
The Milner York
"Nice hotel with lots of atmosphere. Room was OK, the view onto the railway station wasn’t the best. I’m sure we could of upgraded but couldn’t be bothered. Food was good, staff very friendly. All in all a good experience and I would certainly recommend. York is a great place to visit also."
Reviewed on 18 May 2026
Delta Hotels by Marriott York
"Room was clean. Breakfast was fresh and replenished quickly. Easy to use coffee machines and could order scrambled or poached eggs. Fried eggs out. Pool was great"
Reviewed on 12 May 2026
Hampton by Hilton York Piccadilly
"Our room was clean and modern and absolutely terrible to stay in. The bathroom was lit like an operating room; there was no place to hang towels; the modular sink/vanity sloped into in such a way that almost anything you tried to put on the vanity slid into the sink; and the sliding door was hung ..."
Reviewed on 18 May 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Foss Islands
Layerthorpe
When in Layerthorpe, you can plan a visit to Walmgate Bar and Treasurer's House, 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.
