South Bank Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
Visit South Bank
Popular places to visit
Shambles
This picturesque cobblestone street has a fascinating medieval history and crooked buildings that appear to almost fall into one another.
York Minster
The city’s emblem is known for its superb stained-glass windows, underground treasure chambers and tall tower with spectacular views.
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.
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.
York St. John University
Explore the campus of York St. John University as part of your travels around York. Discover the area's shops or seek out its local tours.
York City Walls
See some of York’s most impressive sights on a walk around the historic perimeter wall that has its origins in the Roman era.
Activities
City Sightseeing York Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
York: Witches and History Old Town Walking Tour
York Witches and History Walking Tour
From York: North Moors and Whitby Tour
York: Introduction to Chocolate Making Experience
Our pick of the best South Bank Hotel Deals
The Milner York
Amazing staff amazing room amazing stay
Reviewed on 29 Dec 2025
Elmbank York, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
Cooked breakfast was of a poor standard and given then expense, it should be up there with the best.
Reviewed on 22 Dec 2025
Hotel du Vin & Bistro York
Beautiful hotel with very helpful and friendly staff. The only caveat (which stopped us from awarding 5 stars) was the eco option for room service. If you opt for eco room service this means that the beds aren’t made nor towels changed but you should still get daily complimentary water and toilet ...
Reviewed on 24 Dec 2025
Roomzzz York City
On arrival the staff were very pleasant and welcoming, the room was spotless and better than advertised the minimal shop downstairs was more than adequate the only criticism is the parking situation but you are made aware well in advance overall a fantastic stay and would recommend.
Reviewed on 22 Dec 2025
ibis Styles York Centre
Close to city centre- 10 minute walk to Christmas markets. Room was clean with lift access to rooms. Car park was a bit tight for parking but safe. Didn’t really have much need to engage with staff but checking in was straight forward. We didn’t have breakfast here but Finns a lovely cafe across ...
Reviewed on 28 Dec 2025
Diamonds Guest House
Room was good, i had a pleasant night
Reviewed on 24 Nov 2025
Other neighbourhoods around South Bank
Bishophill
If you're spending some time in Bishophill, Micklegate Bar and Yorvik Brass Rubbing Centre are top sights worth seeing.
Fishergate
While visiting Fishergate, you might make a stop by sights like York Barbican and Kohima Museum.
City Centre
If you're spending some time in City Centre, Merchant Adventurers' Hall and Shambles are top sights worth seeing.
Holgate
While visiting Holgate, you might make a stop by sights like National Railway Museum and York Cold War Bunker.
Bootham
While visiting Bootham, you might make a stop by sights like York Theatre Royal and St. Mary's Abbey.
Foss Islands
Though Foss Islands may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like York Barbican and Yorkshire's Winter Wonderland.
