Insider’s guide to York

What makes York such a great place to live?
It’s a wonderful spot – we have the Yorkshire Dales, the Wolds and the North York Moors on our doorstep. There are great train links to London and Scotland, the motorway network is excellent and we’re close to several airports, including Leeds Bradford. And, of course, York is a historic city with ancient walls and the 13th-century Minster, one of the world’s most magnificent cathedrals.

Which are the best areas to buy in right now?
We have so many interesting buyers who move to York, and they’re all motivated by different things. Those downsizing tend to like properties closer to the old centre and the City Walls, in a quiet corner away from the lively pubs and busy restaurants. We also have buyers who come here for private schools such as Bootham and St Peter’s – they’re looking in Bootham, Clifton and the surrounding areas. Then we have Fulford Road, Tadcaster Road and Huntington, which have become popular with families, and Bishopthorpe Road, known as the “Notting Hill of York”. This is a beautiful city surrounded by glorious countryside. Yorkshire is known as God’s Own County – you can see why.

How does York differ from Leeds?
Residents here like to live in the city or within a 40-minute walk. In Leeds, it’s the younger generation who prefer to be in town, generally in new-build apartments. A lot of people choose to live in York because of its history and character, and commute to bigger cities such as Leeds and London.

How has York changed in the past five years?
The biggest shift is in the food scene. York has long been famous for having a different pub for each day of the year, but lately visitors have been more interested in the new breed of restaurants that are springing up. Tommy Banks’s Roots, on Marygate, has a Michelin star and does an exceptional tasting menu, while Skosh, on Micklegate, specialises in small plates of locally sourced food. Robinsons, on Bishopthorpe Road, is a happening spot for brunch. 

Which are your favourite places to eat and drink?
House of the Trembling Madness is a medieval ale house with some of the finest craft beers in the country, while Vi serves speciality coffee and natural wines. Nola is an incredible Art Deco-inspired restaurant that does dishes from New Orleans and often has live jazz. And whenever family and friends come to town, they always want to visit Bettys for a Fat Rascal, a plump scone with currants and citrus peel. It’s Yorkshire’s most famous spot for afternoon tea. 

What is there to do for culture?
There’s so much here. The York Art Gallery is showing a wonderful Harland Miller exhibition, we have the York Castle Museum, and the Yorkshire Museum is home to Jurassic, Roman and Viking collections. The Minster has a splendid rose window, and York Racecourse is always fun. The Christmas market and the food festivals are special too. Another highlight is the Open Studios, when local craftspeople open up their spaces – a chance to buy some really fine work. 

How’s the shopping?
If you’re looking for treasures, the Antiques Centre and the Red House Antique Centre are excellent places to hunt. York has always been good for beautiful old things, especially in the shops along Stonegate. 

What’s your favourite thing to do in York?
I spend my days rushing about, so when I have time I like to walk around the two miles of the City Walls and pause by the River Ouse, usually on the terrace at The Star Inn the City or by the Kings Arms.

Portfolio recommends…
York is a compact place to wander. The streets are layered with Roman, Viking and medieval history – Stonegate, leading from the Minster, is the most photogenic. York’s City Walls are a scheduled monument: walking the route gives you endless views. Stop off at Gatehouse Coffee for refreshments and pause for lunch at Grays Court: the delicious Bow Room serves dishes “from our garden to your plate” – with the Minster as a backdrop. On a sunny day, take a boat trip on the Ouse from Lendal Bridge, or for indoor indulgence, try the signature spa day experience at The Grand.

TANYA COFFEY, ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF RESIDENTIAL, YORK
TCoffey@savills.com