Visit Foss Islands
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 top-notch restaurants in this romantic 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.
Things to do
City Sightseeing York Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
York: Witches and History Old Town Walking Tour
From York: North Moors and Whitby Tour
York Witches and History Walking Tour
York Audio Tour: Ghosts, History, and Chocolate
York: Golden Tours Hop-on Hop-off Open Top Bus Tour- 24 Hours Ticket
Top hotels in Foss Islands
The Milner York
Hotel was wonderful, very well set out junior suite with a great aspect towards York cathedral.
Reviewed on 1 Jan 2026
Moxy York
Room was cleaned daily, loads of activities, good breakfast, courteous staff
Reviewed on 5 Jan 2026
Malmaison York
Staff were all efficient and personable
Reviewed on 5 Jan 2026
Hampton by Hilton York Piccadilly
This is an excellent hotel. Very good value for money, there is a free breakfast with lots of items. It is run of the mill standard English breakfast coffee options and juices and eggs. The hotel is located bang in the middle of town, right next to Clifford's hill. Book with confidence when traveling ...
Reviewed on 5 Jan 2026
Delta Hotels by Marriott York
Stayed here before. Always excellent.
Reviewed on 4 Jan 2026
Hotel Indigo York by IHG
Warm, welcoming staff who go out of their way to correct any and all concerns Very cute rooms, warm and cozy, nicely decorated. Clean, modern bathrooms. Great neighborhood, easy walk to the city center, easy for Uber rides, and some phenomenal restaurants only steps away: Chinese noodle soups, coffee/bakeries, ...
Reviewed on 6 Jan 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Foss Islands
Layerthorpe
When in Layerthorpe, you can plan a visit to Merchant Taylors' Hall and Monk Bar, 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 York Barbican and Walmgate Bar 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.
