York Railway Station
A grand Victorian gateway to historic York, blending impressive architecture with modern convenience and easy access to the National Railway Museum.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful arrival
York Railway Station
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful arrival
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A grand Victorian gateway to historic York, blending impressive architecture with modern convenience and easy access to the National Railway Museum.
"York Railway Station is grand and elegant, with a lovely mix of history and modern convenience."
🧳 Luggage Storage
Consider luggage storage if you plan to explore before checking into your accommodation.
🚶♂️ Easy City Access
The station is a short walk to many city attractions, making it a convenient starting point.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Victorian Grandeur
Main concourse
Marvel at the impressive Victorian architecture, a testament to its past as the world's largest station.
National Railway Museum
Short walk from the station
Explore iconic locomotives like the Mallard and discover the history of rail travel.
The Principal York Hotel
Adjacent to the station
Admire the historic hotel, originally part of the station's amenities, now a luxurious stay.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Arrive in Style
Gateway to Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧳 Luggage Storage
Consider luggage storage if you plan to explore before checking into your accommodation.
🚶♂️ Easy City Access
The station is a short walk to many city attractions, making it a convenient starting point.
☕ Refreshment Options
Plenty of cafes and shops available for a quick bite or drink while waiting for your train.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture the station's impressive roof and preserved features for great travel photos.
Tips
from all over the internet
🧳 Luggage Storage
Consider luggage storage if you plan to explore before checking into your accommodation.
🚶♂️ Easy City Access
The station is a short walk to many city attractions, making it a convenient starting point.
☕ Refreshment Options
Plenty of cafes and shops available for a quick bite or drink while waiting for your train.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture the station's impressive roof and preserved features for great travel photos.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Travelers praise York Railway Station for its grand Victorian architecture and convenient location, serving as an impressive gateway to the historic city. Many highlight its cleanliness, ample staff assistance, and the proximity to the National Railway Museum as major positives. Some minor drawbacks include potential busyness during peak hours.
"The grandeur of York Minster leaves you in awe. The tour up the tour is arduous with the steepness of the steps, but the views are breathtaking. The under ground excavations showing the old Roman ruins, treasures and restoration works are impressive. A visit is a must."
Ian Knight
"One of the nicest stations I have been to as the trip up took 1 hour and 50 minutes from kings cross and is electrified all the way so is quiet. Once you get there you arrive in to a station no less impressive as kings cross. Also there is the national railway museum a short walk away and has some of the most famous trains on earth such as the mallard"
Oscar Crowther
"The present York station was built during the 1870s.
Upon its opening on 25 June 1877, it was the largest railway station in the world, possessing 13 platforms along with various amenities, including a dedicated hotel (now The Principal York).
The station took extensive damage from German bombers during the Second World War, resulting in both deaths and injuries amongst the staff. Repairs to the station were completed in 1947.
York station is a key junction approximately halfway between London and Edinburgh."
Peter Mabon
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
York Railway Station is conveniently located adjacent to the city center. Most major attractions, including York Minster and The Shambles, are within a 10-15 minute walk. Taxis are readily available outside the main entrance, and local bus services also operate from the station.
Yes, York Railway Station is generally accessible. It offers step-free access to most platforms, lifts, and accessible toilets. Staff are also available to assist passengers.
York is a key junction on the East Coast Main Line, serving major routes between London and Edinburgh. It also connects to destinations like Manchester, Leeds, and Newcastle.
Yes, there is a multi-storey car park available at York Railway Station. However, it can be busy, and pre-booking is often recommended, especially during peak times.
The historic city walls are just a short walk from the station, typically around 10-15 minutes, allowing for easy exploration of this iconic feature of York.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You can purchase train tickets online through the National Rail Enquiries website or individual train operator websites. Tickets can also be bought at the ticket office within York Railway Station or from ticket machines on the concourse.
Discounts may be available for railcards (e.g., Senior, Family & Friends, Two Together), group travel, and off-peak travel. It's advisable to check the National Rail website for current offers and eligibility.
The ticket office at York Railway Station typically operates from early morning until late evening. It's best to check the specific opening hours on the National Rail website or by contacting the station directly.
Yes, most ticket machines and the ticket office at York Railway Station accept contactless payment methods, including credit and debit cards.
Yes, there are waiting areas available on the platforms and in the main concourse. Some areas offer seating, while others are more open.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
York Railway Station offers a range of amenities including cafes, shops, restrooms, waiting areas, and information points. There are also ATMs and luggage storage facilities.
Free Wi-Fi is typically available at York Railway Station, allowing passengers to stay connected while waiting for their trains.
The National Railway Museum is a short, well-signposted walk from York Railway Station, usually taking about 5-10 minutes. Follow the signs from the station exit.
Yes, the station has a selection of cafes and food outlets offering various options from quick snacks to light meals, perfect for travelers needing refreshments.
Built in the 1870s, York Station was once the largest railway station in the world. It suffered damage during WWII but was repaired and remains a vital transport hub.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Within the station itself, there are cafes offering kid-friendly snacks, and the open concourse provides space for little ones to move around (under supervision, of course). The ease of access to the city center also means families can quickly get to other attractions like the Jorvik Viking Centre or the York Castle Museum.
🚶♂️ Solo Travelers & Day-Trippers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
Today, it seamlessly blends its historical charm with modern functionality. Travelers often remark on its grand and elegant feel, noting the pleasant mix of old and new. It serves as a crucial junction, situated approximately halfway between London and Edinburgh, making it a vital link for many journeys.
Adjacent to the station, you'll find The Principal York, a historic hotel that was originally part of the station's amenities. This connection further enhances the station's historical significance and offers a luxurious option for visitors looking to stay close to the transport links.
The National Railway Museum Experience
Visitors can marvel at iconic engines like the Mallard, the world's fastest steam locomotive, and explore various themed halls showcasing everything from royal carriages to Japanese bullet trains. The museum provides an engaging and educational experience for all ages, with interactive exhibits and fascinating stories behind each piece.
Admission to the National Railway Museum is free, making it an accessible and highly recommended attraction for anyone arriving or departing via York Railway Station. It's an ideal way to spend a few hours immersing yourself in the golden age of rail travel.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit