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.
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.
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.
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
York: Witches and History Old Town Walking Tour
Nth York Moors Steam Train (incl) & Whitby Small Group Day Trip.
From York: North Moors and Whitby Tour
Top hotels in Foss Islands
The Waggon & Horses
"Very nice and friendly, stayed years ago and still as good ,breakfast is absolutely massive, other options available as I did 2nd morning, Nothing to much trouble, rooms good ,hotest may ever but fan running in room bar has ample choice and friendly"
Reviewed on 26 May 2026
Malmaison York
"Not bad"
Reviewed on 27 May 2026
Radisson Hotel York
"Everything in hotel was great only issue was WiFi not connecting, which isn't the end of the world but when your trying to sort out places to go and where you need to meet people it does help. Also the car park is a nightmare to park in. But staff amazing and hotel nice and comfortable and an ideal ..."
Reviewed on 27 May 2026
The Milner York
"We was celebrating our 25th Wedding anniversary so we thought we would return to where we went on our honeymoon. The hotel didn’t disappoint us we had an amazing time. Joanne & Michael"
Reviewed on 27 May 2026
Hampton by Hilton York Piccadilly
"Perfect place to stay if you want to be walking distance of main tourist must visit places. The included breakfast is excellent. I will stay there again if I come back, which I probably do."
Reviewed on 25 May 2026
Delta Hotels by Marriott York
"Rooms pretty clean, could do with a upgrade. Staff were really helpful and all polite. Breakfast was really good with lots to choose from. The restaurant and bar was OK. Personally the meals were quite expensive for the amount of food you get."
Reviewed on 27 May 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Foss Islands
Layerthorpe
When in Layerthorpe, you can plan a visit to Merchant Taylors' Hall 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 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.
