York, a stunning university city known for its magnificent minster, has been crowned the friendliest and most relaxed place in the UK. Despite its historical associations with the War of the Roses and the Jorvik Viking Centre, this North Yorkshire gem is also a haven of tranquillity and friendliness.
Travel gurus at Accor recently undertook a comprehensive study to identify the UK cities best suited for a serene and peaceful getaway, and York emerged victorious. The city’s abundance of green spaces, coffee shops, and libraries, coupled with its environmental quality, local happiness, and annual sunshine hours, all contributed to its top ranking as a Northern oasis of calm.
Adding another accolade to York’s list, Betway’s settlement analysts have now declared it the friendliest city in the UK. This survey considered life satisfaction scores, safety, staff friendliness, quality of green spaces and parks, and the number of five-star rated restaurants.
York boasts 68 restaurants with five-star online ratings and, according to Betway, some of the most amiable and cheerful hospitality staff in the entire country, reports the Mirror.
If you’re keen to experience York’s renowned cheeriness and relaxed atmosphere, here are some of the city’s top attractions and sights to see…
Toto’s Italian Restaurant
If you’re seeking a cosy spot for a meal in York, look no further than Toto’s – a quaint family-run restaurant nestled on the city’s eastern edge. At Toto’s, you’ll be treated to mouth-watering, homemade Italian dishes like pizza, pasta or salad that will whisk you back to the sun-soaked holidays of your youth.
While tourist guides might direct you towards Betty’s Tea Room, unless you relish the prospect of being served by Edwardian-themed tea ladies with a hint of sternness, Toto’s is a far superior choice. Give it a try and you’ll likely find yourself engaged in friendly conversation with the owners by the end of the evening.
The Victoria Pub
York is often touted as having a pub for every day of the year. While this may no longer hold true in the wake of Covid lockdowns and the rise of Netflix, the city is not lacking in watering holes.
One of the finest is The Victoria, located on Heslington Road, just beyond the ancient City Walls.
The pub is renowned for its challenging quizzes that unite locals and students in a battle of wits, all while navigating the effects of particularly strong pints of Old Rosie cider, sold at bargain prices.
If the combination of inexpensive drinks and lively atmosphere becomes overwhelming, you can retire to one of The Victoria’s rooms for the night – conveniently located for leisurely walks to all of York’s attractions.
Hidden cafes
One of the most charming features of York, and a fantastic way to appreciate the city’s delightful hospitality staff, is through its cafes.
Tucked behind the grand minster, you’ll discover a selection of cafes with gardens that border the city walls, offering an ideal spot to admire the towers, observe tourists strolling along the walls, and savour a calming cup of coffee or tea.
Osbornes, a family-run cafe hidden down Gillygate, boasts a particularly stunning garden. “The tempting cake display in the window may catch your eye first, and once you head inside you’ll be greeted by the very friendly team,” reports York Mix.
“In the cafe garden, you will find sunny and shady areas to suit your mood, and it’s a lovely tranquil space to sit back and relax with an iced drink or a spot of lunch,” they added.
“The generous servings range from breakfasts, sandwiches, burgers, and more. Or why not get a slice of that cake you were eyeing up in the window.”
Another top-notch location is the themed Forest at Galtres Lodge on Low Petergate, a wonderful place to unwind with friends or family while enjoying some tasty food. It also features a ‘secret garden’ that has been compared to a fairy-tale grotto complete with twinkling lights, plants and blankets.