What is it?
The Ouse is York’s main river, crossing the city centre (a bit like Paris, at a push). It’s the sixth longest river in the UK, and the longest to flow in one county. But record winning aside, the magic aura of the Ouse builds on the splendid sights you can see on its riverside, from the Lendal and Ouse bridges to the Tower and Museum Gardens.
Is it worth visiting?
Absolutely. The Ouse makes York what it is, and many choose an evening boat cruise to enjoy the scenery bathed in a golden sunset. If you’re fond of long walks with greenery and sights to entertain you, you can walk down the riverside park up to the Millennium Bridge – a sleek, recent addition to the cityscape and a great spot to chill.
Tickets/accessibility/booking info
Tickets for boat rides average £14-20 for a 45-minute ride, or walking can be just as good on a nice day (and it's free!). The riverside park is fully wheelchair accessible from the Ouse Bridge and Lendal Bridge, where a new ramp leads directly into the central station – handy if you’re catching the train back.
Where's good to eat nearby?
La Tazzina is a cosy Italian 10 minutes’ walk away from the Lendal Bridge. If you fancy a good Sunday Roast, The Masons Arms is only five minutes away from the very Viking-sounding Skeldergate Bridge. Another local favourite is French casual restaurant Rustique; pricier, but a real treat.