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
"Good location lovely and clean and a great breakfast ."
Reviewed on 31 May 2026
Radisson Hotel York
"Lovely room. Customer & bar service excellent as was breakfast. Not far from centre"
Reviewed on 30 May 2026
The Milner York
"Rooms were spotless, staff go above and beyond to be polite, respectful, positive and very help. Breakfast buffet was good and the bar area was perfect for relaxing. We will return."
Reviewed on 30 May 2026
Hampton by Hilton York Piccadilly
"Nice central location, rooms clean and very quiet. However the rooms lack space for clothing only a small rail rack, the bed was extremely hard and was not very comfortable. Nice big TV and a fridge in the room and shampoo, conditioner, body wash and body lotion in the bathroom. We did struggle connecting ..."
Reviewed on 31 May 2026
Moxy York
"The hotel has a modern/hip vibe, starting with the lobby which is centered around the bar that also serves as the check-in desk. This is where breakfast is served. The room was modern, well maintained and functional, but a little tight on space for 2-people with large suitcases. There is no closet ..."
Reviewed on 31 May 2026
Delta Hotels by Marriott York
"Rooms were excessively hot, fan provided but still boiling all night. Some sort of fan system in the room but didn’t seem to provide any cool air and was very noisy"
Reviewed on 30 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 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.
