EASILETS UNPACKED : A Local’s Guide to the Best Hidden Gems

July 21, 2025

  Everyone knows about York’s iconic landmarks — the towering Gothic grandeur of York Minster, the cobbled charm of The Shambles, and the ancient city walls that wrap around the city like a time capsule. These sights are beloved for a reason — steeped in history, beautifully preserved, and utterly Instagrammable.

But beyond these headline attractions lies a different York. A softer, slower, and arguably more magical version — one that locals know and love. It’s a city of cosy corners, independent spirit, and unexpected discoveries. A place where you can sip coffee in a medieval tower, paddleboard on a spring-fed lake, or stumble upon a secret garden just steps from the bustling streets.

As locals, we often find ourselves drawn to the tucked-away cafés, family-run boutiques, hidden riverside spots, and quiet green spaces that don’t always make it into the guidebooks. These are the places where you’ll find authentic flavours, warm welcomes, and that unbeatable feeling of having found something for yourself — something most tourists miss.

Whether it’s your first time visiting or you’ve wandered York’s streets before, this guide is your key to seeing the city through a different lens. If you want to explore York like a local — and discover those off-the-beaten-path gems that give the city its real charm — you’re in the right place.

Here are our top 10 hidden gems in York — carefully curated and loved by locals. Let the adventure begin.

A view of a city with a cathedral in the background.

Rise – Brunch with a Twist


Tucked away just off Micklegate, Rise is a sleek, stylish spot serving up pancakes with a health-conscious twist. Think açai bowls, protein-packed stacks, and vibrant juices in a bright, relaxed setting. It’s a firm local favourite — and the perfect place to fuel up before a day of exploring York’s more off-the-beaten-path treasures.

A table topped with bowls of food and drinks.

York Marina & Waterfront Café – Riverside Calm


Hidden just outside the city in peaceful Naburn, the York Marina and Waterfront Café is a true escape. Watch swans drift by on the River Ouse from the sun-soaked terrace, sip a coffee, or enjoy lunch with waterside views. It’s one of those rare spots that feels like a mini-holiday — ideal for a slow afternoon or a peaceful pause from the city bustle.

A restaurant with tables and chairs and a glass roof.

Double Dutch Pancake House – Sweet, Savoury & Secretive


Hidden in plain sight on Church Street, this colourful café serves up Dutch-style pancakes that are as fun as they are delicious. From sweet Nutella delights to hearty savoury stacks, Double Dutch Pancake House is quirky, cheerful, and surprisingly quiet for such a central location. Head upstairs for cosy seating and a warm welcome — a hidden gem hiding in full view.

A pancake with bananas and powdered sugar on a blue and white plate with a spatula.

The Shop That Must Not Be Named – A Magical Find


Wander the cobbled Shambles and step into a little slice of the wizarding world. The Shop That Must Not Be Named is a Harry Potter-themed treasure trove filled with wands, robes, and fantastical finds. Whether you're a devoted fan or just love a bit of magic, this place will enchant visitors of all ages.

Three brooms are hanging on a shelf outside of a store.

Give the Dog a Bone – Joy in Every Corner


Just off Fossgate, this quirky independent store is a wonderland of colourful gifts, nostalgic toys, funky homeware, and novelty treats. Give the Dog a Bone is the kind of shop where you lose track of time — and where you’re almost guaranteed to find the perfect card or a unique gift you didn’t even know you were looking for.

A store window with a lot of items on it

Daisy Taylor’s – Boutique Beauty on Walmgate


A pastel-hued paradise for lovers of all things pretty and personal, Daisy Taylor’s is a charming Walmgate boutique filled with handpicked gifts, artisan homeware, stationery, and seasonal treats. The perfect spot for finding a thoughtful souvenir or simply indulging in something lovely.

A store filled with lots of items

Pool Bridge Farm – Wild Swimming & Country Calm


Just 15 minutes from York, Pool Bridge Farm offers a slice of countryside bliss. Wild swimming, lake fishing, fire pits, and wide skies make it a favourite for families, couples, and nature-lovers alike. Bring a picnic, dip your toes in the lake, and let the calm sink in.

A wooden dock leading to a lake with trees in the background.

Museum Gardens at Sunset – Pure Evening Magic


While York Museum Gardens are popular by day, locals know the real magic happens at golden hour. As the sun sets, light filters through ancient trees and glows on the ruins of St. Mary’s Abbey. Peaceful, romantic, and almost cinematic — it’s one of the most underrated spots to end your day in York.

The sun is shining through the windows of a ruin

City Walls by Monk Bar – A Quieter Climb


York’s city walls are always worth walking — but for a quieter, more contemplative route, head to the stretch near Monk Bar. Here, you’ll find fewer tourists and better views across hidden gardens, old rooftops, and secret corners of the city. Ideal for photography, reflection, or just escaping the crowd.

A castle with two towers and crosses on it

Allerthorpe Lakeland Park – A Splash of Adventure


Nestled just outside Pocklington, Allerthorpe Lakeland Park is a freshwater haven perfect for paddleboarding, kayaking, or just lounging lakeside. With spring-fed water, a sandy beach area, and plenty of space to roam, it’s a brilliant day trip for anyone craving nature and a bit of wild water fun.

A large inflatable water park is floating on top of a lake.

York is a city that rewards those who wander. Beyond the iconic Minster and postcard-perfect streets, its real magic lies in the places tucked just out of sight — where locals linger, stories unfold, and unexpected moments happen. The hidden gems in this guide are just a starting point, but there are so many more to explore.


Take Botanic York, for example — part concept store, part indoor jungle. It’s the kind of place you could spend hours browsing plants, and feeling inspired. Or head to Brew York, a fantastic craft brewery and taproom tucked away in Walmgate’s old warehouses. With vibrant street food, and a constantly rotating beer list, it’s a firm local favourite.

Then there’s the King’s Arms — famous for its riverside location and its legendary flood photos. It’s one of York’s quirkiest pubs, and the views are unbeatable on a sunny day. For something more traditional, the Phoenix Inn near the city walls is one of York’s last true hidden pubs — no frills, live jazz on Sundays, and a warm, welcoming vibe that’s hard to beat.

And if you’re feeling adventurous, venture just outside the city walls to find Holgate Windmill — a beautifully restored 18th-century gem that still mills its own flour. Run by passionate volunteers, it’s a quiet reminder of York’s rich industrial heritage and a great off-the-beaten-track stop.


At Easilets, we believe that travel should be more than just sightseeing — it should be about experiencing. That’s why we love sharing local favourites and secret spots with our guests. Whether you’re here for a weekend escape, a family holiday, or a long-overdue catch-up with friends, our homes are designed to make you feel part of the city — with stylish, comfortable spaces and personal touches that help you live like a local.


If you discover a hidden gem during your stay, let us know! We’re always updating our guide with new finds and insider tips. Tag us on Instagram or send us a message — your favourite off-the-radar café, view, or shop might just feature in our next post.