Visit Foss Islands
Popular places to visit
Shambles
This picturesque cobblestone street has a fascinating medieval history and crooked buildings that appear to almost fall into one another.
York Minster
The city’s emblem is known for its superb stained-glass windows, underground treasure chambers and tall tower with spectacular views.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Things to do
City Sightseeing York Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
York: Witches and History Old Town Walking Tour
Shadows of York: Ghost Walk and Horrible History.
York Historical Gems Tour & A Taste of York Chocolate
York Witches and History Walking Tour
Top hotels in Foss Islands
The Milner York
Lovely room Friendly and informative staff Unfortunately the leisure facilities were unavailable during our stay
Reviewed on 13 Jan 2026
Moxy York
Great welcome by Jennifer (think she was called Jennifer) spotless room very friendly staff breakfast plentiful fantastic location will be back
Reviewed on 14 Jan 2026
Malmaison York
Great food, lovely stay will be back again
Reviewed on 13 Jan 2026
Hampton by Hilton York Piccadilly
All good.
Reviewed on 13 Jan 2026
Hotel Indigo York by IHG
Great location, super friendly staff, comfy and cosy room.
Reviewed on 11 Jan 2026
Hilton York
Staff are fabulous !! Hollie and Christine at the front of customer facing were 101% made the holiday !!
Reviewed on 11 Jan 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Foss Islands
Layerthorpe
When in Layerthorpe, you can plan a visit to Merchant Taylors' Hall and Monk 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 York Barbican and Walmgate Bar 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.
