Thinking of visiting York this August? You’ve chosen the perfect month. With its blend of historic beauty, vibrant culture, and buzzing summer energy, York truly comes alive during August. From sun-drenched strolls along the medieval city walls to late-night ghost tours, riverside relaxation, open-air concerts, and quirky festivals, this characterful city offers the perfect mix of heritage, culture, and family-friendly fun.

Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a week-long holiday, here’s your complete guide to what’s on in York in August 2025—plus the best places to eat, explore, and unwind during your summer stay.

Must-See Events in York – August 2025

York Maze – Summer of Adventure

Dates: Until 1st September
Where: Elvington Lane, YO19 5LT
Why Go: With over 20 rides, attractions, and one of the largest mazes in Europe, York Maze is perfect for kids and adults. Explore the 2025 maize maze theme, watch pig racing, tackle obstacle courses, or cool off with water-based games.

Insider Tip: Arrive early and bring spare clothes for the water zone. Book online to skip queues.

JORVIK Viking Festival – Summer Special

Dates: 6–10 August
Where: Various locations (JORVIK Centre, Eye of York, Parliament Street)
Expect epic Viking battles, living history encampments, archaeological talks, and Norse-themed workshops for children. A rare summer edition of York’s famous winter festival!

Don't Miss: The Battle Spectacular in the Eye of York – a fully staged clash of Viking warriors!

Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta at Castle Howard

Dates: 23–26 August
Where: Castle Howard Estate (30 mins from York)
Mass balloon launches at dawn and dusk, live music, food trucks, fairground rides, and stunning firework displays. Confirmed performers include The Feeling, Heather Small, and a BBC Introducing stage.

Family Perks: Kids go free under 5. Bring a picnic blanket for evening entertainment.

Open Air Theatre in Rowntree Park

Dates: Various evenings throughout August
Hosted by Chapterhouse and local groups, enjoy Shakespeare, Jane Austen adaptations, and family theatre in a leafy riverside park. Performances include Much Ado About Nothing and The Wind in the Willows.

Top Tip: Bring a blanket and wine! Performances go ahead rain or shine.

York Art Gallery Summer Exhibitions

Dates: All month
Where: Exhibition Square
Explore ‘Art of the North: Landscapes and Legends’, a summer exhibition showcasing regional artists, alongside interactive family workshops and garden sketching sessions.

York River Art & Music Festival

Dates: 17–18 August
Where: South Esplanade & Blue Bridge area
Local artists, buskers, and acoustic bands take over the riverside walkways. Expect food stalls, chalk art competitions, and late-night performances along the Ouse.

Medieval Family Weekend at Barley Hall

Dates: 9–11 August
Step into a real medieval townhouse for storytelling, dressing up, calligraphy workshops, and swordplay demos in this immersive historical setting.

Yorkshire Craft Beer Festival

Dates: 30 August – 1 September
Where: York Barbican
Sample beers from 40+ independent UK breweries. Live music, street food, and tasting masterclasses make this a top weekend for beer lovers.

Classic Summer Activities in York

Walk the York City Walls

Take the full 2-mile loop for views of York Minster, the Shambles, and hidden corners of the city. Ideal in the early morning or golden hour.

Hire a Boat on the River Ouse

Choose from city cruises, self-drive boats, or paddleboards for a relaxing way to see the city from the water.

Visit York Museum Gardens

Perfect for a picnic or lazy afternoon. Enjoy views of St Mary’s Abbey ruins, tame squirrels, and vibrant summer blooms.

Join a Ghost Walk

As night falls, York’s spooky side comes to life. The Original Ghost Walk of York and Shadows of York offer family-friendly and spine-chilling tours alike.

Eat, Drink & Chill: Summer Dining in York

• Spark:York – Independent street food and rooftop drinks in upcycled shipping containers.
• Robinsons Café – Brunch spot near Bishopthorpe Road, with great vegan options.
• Pairings Wine Bar – For wine flights and charcuterie, near Clifford’s Tower.
• The House of the Trembling Madness – Quirky medieval pub with craft beer and hearty bites.
• Skosh – Michelin-recommended small plates with modern flair—perfect for foodies.
• Brew & Brownie – Instagram-famous pancakes, right next to the Museum Gardens.

Where to Stay: Short-Let Homes with Pass the Keys York

Whether you're visiting for the Viking Festival or just soaking up the summer atmosphere, Pass the Keys York offers a selection of beautifully maintained short-let properties. Each home is professionally cleaned, fully equipped, and designed for comfort—perfect for families, couples, or solo travellers.

Our local York partner, Sam March, ensures everything runs smoothly, from check-in to check-out. Choose from:

• Central apartments near the Minster
• Riverside townhouses with private gardens
• Cosy cottages just outside the city walls

Bonus: Many homes include self-check-in, Wi-Fi, and parking—plus pet-friendly options!

Plan Your August Getaway to York

August in York means long summer days, family-friendly events, riverside dining, and unforgettable history at every turn. Whether you're exploring Viking heritage, relaxing in the gardens, or enjoying live music by the water, York is the perfect place to make the most of the British summer.

Book your York stay with Pass the Keys today, and unlock the city with local knowledge, great amenities, and flexible, comfortable accommodation.