Summer in York 2025: The Ultimate Guide to Events, Attractions & Insider Tips

2 weeks ago

Discover the best that York has to offer this summer—from classical melodies to riverside cruises and family fun. Whether you’re a culture lover, foodie, or outdoor enthusiast, you’ll find perfect ways to enjoy the sunny season.

1. York Early Music Festival 🎶

When: Friday 4 – Friday 11 July 2025
Where: Various venues including National Centre for Early Music (St Margaret’s Church YO1 9TL), Bedern Hall, Merchant Adventurers’ Hall, York Minster & University concert hall
What’s On:

19 concerts over 8 days
Highlights include:
- Fretwork opening 4 Jul
- The Tallis Scholars at York Minster (5 Jul)
- Le Consort performing Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons at University (6 Jul)
- The Sixteen choral concert at York Minster (7 Jul)
- Heaven & Hell chamber music at Merchant Adventurers Hall (9 Jul)
- Academy of Ancient Music finale (11 Jul)

Prices: Concerts range from free lunchtime sessions to £45 for ticketed performances. Example: Heaven & Hell £45, Concertos on the Edge £12.50, Le Consort £40/35
Book Tickets: Visit NCEM’s official site for full programme & purchasing.

2. Bollywood Cruise on the River Ouse

When: Saturday 28 June 2025, 18:45 boarding, 19:00–22:00 cruise
Where: City Cruises York – King’s Staith Landing YO1 9SN
Details: DJ‑led evening of Bollywood/Bhangra tunes on the Captain James Cook vessel. Drinks & snacks available aboard, smart‑casual dress.
Price & Tickets: Typically ~£30–35; buy through Visit York events page.

3. Summer Social Cruise

When: Thursday 21 August 2025
Where: Board at King’s Staith Landing
Details: Networking event with fish‑and‑chips supper, drinks & scenic river views aboard City Cruises.
Price/Tickets: RSVP via York Professionals events listing. New listings appear in late July—watch their website for booking.

4. York City & Sightseeing Cruises

When: Daily, multiple times 10:30–16:00
Where: King’s Staith & Lendal Bridge landings
Details: 45–60 minute guided cruise on River Ouse with live commentary (Minster, Clifford’s Tower, Roman walls). Enclosed saloon and open deck.
Price: From £15 per adult; kids free under 5 occasionally.
Book Tickets: Tickets available at landing points or City Cruises website. Pre‑booking via GetYourGuide (~$20).

5. York Summerfest

When: Saturday 23 August 2025, 10:00–17:00
Where: Central York (exact location confirmed closer to event)
Details: Family-friendly festival with vendor stalls, food stands, golf competitions, 5K run, live entertainment. Free entry; some activities may charge or require registration.
Tickets/Info: Mostly on-the-day participation; 5K run registration via Summerfest’s official site.