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.
York Barbican
Enjoy a show at York Barbican, a theatre with a story to tell in York. Make time for the shops and local tours in this walkable area.
Things to do
York: Witches and History Old Town Walking Tour
City Sightseeing York Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
Nth York Moors National Park & Whitby Small Group Day Trip.
From York: North Moors and Whitby Tour
York Witches and History Walking Tour
Top hotels in Foss Islands
The Waggon & Horses
Room clean,nice bathroom,staff helpful.
Reviewed on 10 Feb, 2026
Radisson Hotel York
Reception staff CV compared to other staff were not particularly welcoming or helpful. But overall we had a really good experience
Reviewed on 22 Mar, 2026
Hampton by Hilton York Piccadilly
Our room was an access room and it was fine, clean comfortable bed and wet room shower. All was good until breakfast. Which was not particularly busy. However multiple tables were uncleared and still with discarded plates cups etc we cleared a table. At the breakfast buffet all the clean plates were ...
Reviewed on 22 Mar, 2026
The Milner York
Hotel was ok but there’s all roadworks being done around the property. We booked for the swimming pool but it was all shut and disappointed this wasn’t mentioned when booking
Reviewed on 22 Mar, 2026
The Grand, York
Room clean , concierge staff excellent
Reviewed on 22 Mar, 2026
Hilton York
The hotel is well located, easily within walking distance of all shops and tourist sites. Staff are friendly and helpful. Room was fine but there was no fridge to keep drinks cool because there is also no air conditioning. Our room was really warm even though we had the window opened day and ...
Reviewed on 18 Mar, 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Foss Islands
Layerthorpe
When in Layerthorpe, you can plan a visit to Merchant Taylors' Hall and Walmgate Bar, 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.
