Things to do in Upper Poppleton

Activities, attractions and tours

Up the Ouse Looking upstream from Nether Poppleton. Across the river on the far bank is Overton.
Photo by DS Pugh (Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.0)
Up the Ouse Looking upstream from Nether Poppleton. Across the river on the far bank is Overton.
Photo by DS Pugh (Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.0)
Farm in Nether Poppleton The nearest building is a farm, and just beyond that is the entrance to the church.
Photo by DS Pugh (Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.0)
Pond in Nether Poppleton A small pond down this cul-de-sac in Nether Poppleton.
Photo by DS Pugh (Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.0)
Poppleton Station - Station Road
Photo by Betty Longbottom (Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.0)
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Top places to visit

1. Shambles

The Shambles is a medieval street in York’s center with a topsy-turvy layout full of shops and restaurants. Stroll down the quaint cobblestone road that runs through the narrow street to see the lopsided 15th-century buildings jutting out overhead. Many visitors compare the jumbled arrangement of the street to Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter saga. In 2010, the Google Street Team voted it the most picturesque street in Britain.
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Shambles showing heritage architecture, a small town or village and street scenes

2. University of Leeds

Renowned for its research and teaching, the University of Leeds is also set apart by its campus, which unites a variety of divergent architectural styles in a celebration of British architecture throughout the 20th century. Grouped on well-manicured lawns just outside the Leeds city center, it welcomes more than 30,000 students each year from a variety of backgrounds. The university was the first in the region to accept women, Catholics and other disadvantaged groups. Go on a walking tour of its many striking buildings and have a picnic on the grass, as you watch the students go past.
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University of Leeds

3. York Minster

York Minster is a Gothic masterpiece and among the largest and most impressive cathedrals in Europe. Climb the Minster’s historic tower, tour its underground chambers and discover 2,000 years of history. The current structure dates back to the 12th century and features medieval stained-glass windows.
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York Minster which includes a church or cathedral, a square or plaza and heritage architecture

4. First Direct Arena

When First Direct Arena opened in 2014, Bruce Springsteen and Elton John set a high bar for the quality of artists who would appear here. Since then, a huge variety of entertainers have come, from Drake and Miley Cyrus to championship boxing matches to beloved local acts such as the Kaiser Chiefs. Don’t miss any of the action in the arena’s fan-shaped configuration. It is unique in the U.K., with the rear seats only 230 feet (70 meters) from the stage, rather than the usual 330 feet (100 meters).
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First Direct Arena

5. Harrogate Convention Centre

Harrogate Convention Centre is a multipurpose complex containing several entertainment venues. With around 2,000 seats, the main auditorium is famous for hosting the 1982 Eurovision Song Contest. Check out the varied program and choose from the many shows across the center’s eight halls.
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Harrogate Convention Centre

6. Royal Armouries

The Royal Armouries Museum is a comprehensive museum that displays a vast collection of weaponry spread across six galleries. Explore the extensive galleries and find displays of arms and armor organized into intriguingly curated exhibitions. Check out over 2,500 objects in the Hall of Steel or learn about the art of warfare and the history of hunting. Catch a live demonstration of jousting at the Tiltyard.
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Elephant armour.

What to do in Upper Poppleton

Popular places to visit

Shambles featuring street scenes and heritage architecture

Shambles

This picturesque cobblestone street has a fascinating medieval history and crooked buildings that appear to almost fall into one another.

Shambles
York Minster which includes a church or cathedral, a square or plaza and heritage architecture

York Minster

The city’s emblem is known for its superb stained-glass windows, underground treasure chambers and tall tower with spectacular views.

York Minster
a little night time photo shot at York Racecourse

York Racecourse

You can take time to visit York Racecourse during your travels to York. Visit the shops and top-notch restaurants in this romantic area.

York Racecourse
The sun setting over a wintery day on the Heslington East campus at the University of York #goldenhour

University of York

Explore the campus of University of York during your visit to Heslington. Discover the top-notch restaurants and fascinating museums in this walkable area.

University of York
Jorvik Viking Centre

Jorvik Viking Centre

Imagine yourself as a Viking in this museum that allows you to dig up Norse artifacts and witness reenactments, while you learn about York’s Scandinavian settlers.

Jorvik Viking Centre
York St. John University.

York St. John University

Explore the campus of York St. John University as part of your travels around York. Discover the area's shops or seek out its local tours.

York St. John University
Walmgate Bar in York

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.

York Barbican
A view from the atlas fountain across to Castle Howard, a beautiful stately home to visit in Yorkshire. Made famous from the television series ‘Brideshead Revisited’

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 quaint area.

Castle Howard
York showing heritage architecture

York City Walls

See some of York’s most impressive sights on a walk around the historic perimeter wall that has its origins in the Roman era.

York City Walls

Frequently asked questions

Is Upper Poppleton worth visiting?
From shopping to history and outdoor pursuits, there are loads of great things to do in Upper Poppleton. Don't forget to discover the area's mix of unmissable sights, local charm and culture.
How do I spend a day in Upper Poppleton?
After you've visited popular attractions like National Railway Museum, spend the rest of your day exploring the food and retail options in Upper Poppleton.
What is the top tourist attraction in Upper Poppleton?
Spend a day exploring York Theatre Royal and see why it's ranked as the top tourist attraction near Upper Poppleton.
Is three days enough to stay in Upper Poppleton?
With a three-day holiday in Upper Poppleton, you'll easily be able to enjoy the area's many fabulous sights, like York Theatre Royal and Bar Convent Museum.
Is Upper Poppleton a walkable neighbourhood?
If you love walking, Upper Poppleton is perfect. You can reach leading attractions like York Theatre Royal and Bar Convent Museum on foot. At 5 kilometres from the centre, the neighbourhood of Bootham is also close enough for a good stroll. So too is Rawcliffe, around 3 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Upper Poppleton with kids?
If you are after activities and attractions for all ages, take a look at these fantastic ideas for what to do in Upper Poppleton with kids.

What to do in Upper Poppleton for adults?
Adults of all ages will have lots of things to do in Upper Poppleton. Whether you're into art, history, outdoor pursuits or just love discovering new places, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Upper Poppleton?
Near Upper Poppleton, York Observatory is a top spot for anyone looking to enjoy this area without reaching for their wallet. Also, check out the green spaces and other nearby neighbourhoods, and ask a local tour guide for insider tips. It's one of the easiest ways to discover the top free things to do in Upper Poppleton.