Nice park
1 / 10

Dean's Park

4.6
·686 reviews·, United Kingdom

A tranquil, tree-fringed park behind York Minster, perfect for picnics and a charming Paddington Bear photo op.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunny afternoons

Perfect for picnics & relaxation

CrowdMedium
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Nice park

Dean's Park

Best Time

Sunny afternoons

Perfect for picnics & relaxation

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A tranquil, tree-fringed park behind York Minster, perfect for picnics and a charming Paddington Bear photo op.

4.6
(686 reviews)

"A lovely place to just sit, relax, and enjoy the view. You can even meet Paddington there!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🧺 Pack a Picnic

Dean's Park is ideal for a picnic lunch or snack with great Minster views.

📸 Photo with Paddington

Don't forget to find and snap a pic with the Paddington Bear statue!

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Paddington Bear Bench

Paddington Bear Bench

Dean's Park

Find the beloved Paddington Bear enjoying a moment on a park bench. A whimsical photo op!

York Minster Views

York Minster Views

Dean's Park

Enjoy stunning, unobstructed views of the magnificent York Minster cathedral from the park's lawns.

Relaxing Lawns

Relaxing Lawns

Dean's Park

Spacious, tree-fringed lawns perfect for picnics, relaxing, or simply enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.

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Picnic Perfect Spot

Dean's Park is a charming green space behind York Minster, ideal for picnics. Grab your treats and find a spot on the lawn or a bench to soak in the views. It's a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for a casual break during your York exploration. Reddit

Meet Paddington!

Don't miss the chance to find Paddington Bear sitting on a bench in Dean's Park! It's a delightful surprise for all ages and a popular photo opportunity. Reddit

Best Times

When
Sunny afternoons
Why
Perfect for picnics & relaxation
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Quieter, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Whereabouts in York was this taken?

🧺 Pack a Picnic

Dean's Park is ideal for a picnic lunch or snack with great Minster views. Reddit

📸 Photo with Paddington

Don't forget to find and snap a pic with the Paddington Bear statue! Reddit

☕ Ice Cream Stop

There's an ice-cream cafe on-site for a sweet treat. Reddit

🌳 Relax & Unwind

Enjoy the peaceful, tree-lined lawns for a moment of calm. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🧺 Pack a Picnic

Dean's Park is ideal for a picnic lunch or snack with great Minster views. Reddit

📸 Photo with Paddington

Don't forget to find and snap a pic with the Paddington Bear statue! Reddit

☕ Ice Cream Stop

There's an ice-cream cafe on-site for a sweet treat. Reddit

🌳 Relax & Unwind

Enjoy the peaceful, tree-lined lawns for a moment of calm. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(686 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Dean's Park is a beloved, peaceful green space offering stunning views of York Minster and a delightful Paddington Bear statue. Visitors praise its relaxed atmosphere, making it ideal for picnics and quiet contemplation. While small, its charm and convenient location make it a highly recommended spot for a moment of tranquility.

"A peaceful park behind York Minster with an ice-cream cafe and plenty of seats. On a sunny, summer's day it makes a good place for a picnic - and you could share your marmalades sandwiches with Paddington!"

Judy Holyer

"A lovely wander around the minister & Deans park where Paddington sits on a bench. People sat eating, having an ice-cream on the benches, a beautiful place."

Jackie Halliday

"This is a small park right behind the York Minster. What a lovely place to just sit, relax, and enjoy the view. You can even meet Paddington there!"

Seadenco

What People Like

Peaceful atmosphere
York Minster views
Paddington Bear statue

What People Dislike

Can get busy
Limited facilities

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Dean's Park is conveniently located directly behind York Minster. You can easily walk there from the city center. If arriving by train, it's about a 15-20 minute walk from York Station.

Yes, Dean's Park is situated right behind York Minster, offering fantastic views of the cathedral. Reddit

There is no dedicated parking within Dean's Park itself. The nearest public car parks are Nunnery Lane Car Park or Fossgate Car Park, both a short walk away.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Dean's Park is a public park and entry is completely free. You can wander in and enjoy the space at your leisure.

Dean's Park is generally open from dawn until dusk. As it's an outdoor public space, there are no strict opening or closing times, but it's best to visit during daylight hours.

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Dean's Park is perfect for relaxing, having a picnic, enjoying views of York Minster, and taking photos with the Paddington Bear statue. Reddit

While there are no public toilets directly within Dean's Park, there are facilities available within York Minster and nearby cafes and public restrooms in the city center.

Absolutely! Dean's Park is a popular spot for picnics. There are plenty of benches and open lawn areas to spread out. Reddit

Yes, it's a lovely open space for children to run around safely, and the Paddington Bear statue is a particular hit with younger visitors. Reddit

You get a fantastic, unobstructed view of the magnificent York Minster cathedral, making it a great spot for photos and appreciation. Reddit

🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining

There is an ice-cream cafe located within Dean's Park, offering refreshments and treats. Reddit

Yes, bringing your own food for a picnic is highly encouraged and a popular activity in Dean's Park. Reddit

Yes, the area around York Minster and the city center has numerous cafes, pubs, and restaurants offering a wide variety of dining options.

📸 📸 Photography

The best photo spots are with the Paddington Bear statue and capturing the full facade of York Minster from the park's lawns. Reddit

Yes, it's excellent for photography, especially with the iconic York Minster as a backdrop and the charming Paddington Bear. Reddit

Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for photography. Sunny afternoons are also great for vibrant shots. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Dean's Park is a fantastic spot for families visiting York. The open lawns provide plenty of space for children to run around and play safely. The highlight for many kids is finding and taking photos with the Paddington Bear statue, which adds a magical element to the visit. It's also an ideal location for a family picnic, making it an affordable and enjoyable way to refuel during a day of sightseeing. The relaxed atmosphere ensures a stress-free experience for parents. Reddit

🚶 Day-Trippers

For day-trippers to York, Dean's Park offers a perfect, easily accessible spot for a break. Its location right behind York Minster means you can easily incorporate it into your itinerary without much extra travel. It's an excellent place to enjoy a packed lunch or grab a quick ice cream, offering a moment of relaxation amidst a busy day of sightseeing. The stunning views of the Minster also make it a worthwhile stop for a quick photo opportunity. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Charm of Dean's Park

Dean's Park is a delightful public green space nestled directly behind the awe-inspiring York Minster. It's a tranquil oasis offering a welcome respite from the bustling city streets. The park is characterized by its well-maintained lawns, fringed by mature trees, providing ample shade on sunny days. Visitors often describe it as a perfect spot for a leisurely picnic, a quiet read, or simply to sit and admire the grandeur of the Minster. The atmosphere is consistently noted as relaxed and peaceful, making it a favorite for both locals and tourists seeking a moment of calm. Reddit

One of the most endearing features of Dean's Park is the presence of a statue of Paddington Bear, seated on a bench. This whimsical addition has become a beloved landmark, offering a unique photo opportunity and a touch of childhood nostalgia for visitors of all ages. The park also features an ice-cream cafe, adding to its appeal as a place to relax and enjoy a treat while taking in the surroundings. Its proximity to the Minster means you can easily combine a visit to the park with exploring one of York's most iconic landmarks. Reddit

Picnicking and Relaxation

Dean's Park truly shines as a prime location for picnics. The expansive, well-kept lawns are ideal for spreading out a blanket and enjoying a meal al fresco. Whether you've prepared your own treats or picked up something from a local bakery, the park provides a picturesque setting. Many visitors appreciate the opportunity to simply sit on the grass, soak up the sun (weather permitting), and enjoy the serene ambiance. The benches scattered throughout the park also offer comfortable seating for those who prefer not to sit on the ground. Reddit

The relaxed atmosphere of Dean's Park makes it an excellent place to unwind. It's a spot where you can escape the crowds and enjoy a moment of peace. The gentle rustling of leaves and the distant sounds of the city create a soothing backdrop. It’s a place to recharge your batteries before continuing your exploration of York, or simply to enjoy a quiet afternoon surrounded by natural beauty and historical architecture. Reddit

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