As the first signs of spring blossom across York, the historic city truly comes alive in March. The chill of winter gives way to milder weather, inviting both locals and visitors to step outside and enjoy the charm that this season brings. From cultural festivals to outdoor adventures, there’s no shortage of exciting events that celebrate York’s rich history, natural beauty, and vibrant community spirit. Here’s a guide to the must-see events and activities that will make your March in York unforgettable.
March in York kicks off with the annual York Literature Festival, a favorite for book lovers and those passionate about the written word. Running for over two weeks, the festival hosts a variety of events across the city, featuring talks by celebrated authors, literary workshops, poetry readings, and panel discussions.
Highlights include:
Whether you're a reader or a writer, this festival provides the perfect platform to immerse yourself in the world of literature, while springtime in York offers an idyllic setting for inspiration.
What better way to experience the awakening of spring in York than with a scenic cruise along the River Ouse? As the trees start to bloom and wildlife returns, the river becomes a serene, picturesque route to explore the city from a different perspective.
Why You Should Take a River Cruise:
A cruise along the River Ouse is a refreshing way to welcome the season and take in York’s historic beauty from the water.
As spring takes hold, creativity flourishes across York in March with York Open Studios—an annual event showcasing the work of talented local artists. This event offers visitors a rare opportunity to explore studios, meet artists, and purchase original artworks.
What You’ll Experience:
For those looking to support local artists and gain inspiration, York Open Studios is a must-visit event that celebrates the city’s rich artistic talent.
As the days grow longer, York’s nearby National Trust Gardens burst into life, making March an ideal time for a tranquil escape to nature. Popular destinations like Beningbrough Hall and Goddards House showcase beautifully manicured gardens, offering a peaceful retreat from the city.
Why Visit in March:
National Trust Gardens are perfect for a day of reflection and exploration as York’s countryside awakens to the beauty of spring.
Spring is also the perfect time to indulge in York’s burgeoning food scene, and York Restaurant Week in late March provides the ideal opportunity to sample the city’s culinary delights at a fraction of the usual cost.
What to Expect:
York Restaurant Week is a food lover’s dream and a fantastic way to savor the city’s culinary scene while supporting local businesses.
Although typically held in February, the Jorvik Viking Festival often extends into early March, making it an exciting addition to the start of spring. Celebrating York’s rich Viking heritage, this festival offers an immersive experience for history enthusiasts, complete with reenactments, Viking banquets, and interactive displays.
What You Can Expect:
The Jorvik Viking Festival offers a fascinating glimpse into York’s Norse past while adding an extra layer of excitement to your spring visit.
A visit to York isn’t complete without exploring the iconic York Minster, and March is the perfect time to experience the panoramic views from its central tower. With the city waking up to spring, the climb offers breathtaking vistas of York’s historic streets and surrounding countryside.
Why You Should Climb the Tower:
The climb may be a bit of a workout, but the view at the top is worth every step, offering a unique perspective on York’s beauty in springtime.
York has a rich history of chocolate-making, and what better way to celebrate spring than with a visit to the annual York Chocolate Festival? Held in late March, this festival showcases York’s status as the home of famous confectionery brands like Rowntree’s and Terry’s.
Festival Highlights:
Whether you’re a chocolate connoisseur or just have a sweet tooth, the York Chocolate Festival is a must-visit event for anyone with a love for all things cocoa.
As the evenings get lighter but still retain a bit of the early-year chill, March is an ideal time to join one of York’s famous ghost walks. York is often dubbed one of the most haunted cities in the UK, and exploring its spooky past on a spring evening adds a thrilling twist to your visit.
Why You Should Go:
Whether you’re a believer in the paranormal or just love a good story, York’s ghost walks are an unmissable springtime adventure.
York Farmers Market, held on the first Friday of every month, is a perfect way to celebrate the start of spring with fresh, seasonal produce. The market showcases the best of local Yorkshire produce, from organic vegetables and artisan cheeses to homemade preserves and baked goods.
What to Look For:
Whether you’re planning a picnic, cooking a spring feast, or just want to sample local flavors, the York Farmers Market offers a delightful way to enjoy the season’s bounty.
With its rich history, vibrant cultural scene, and stunning natural beauty, York comes alive in March with an array of exciting events and activities that capture the essence of spring. From literary festivals and river cruises to ghost walks and chocolate tastings, there’s something for everyone in this charming city. As the first signs of spring blossom across York, it’s the perfect time to explore everything the city has to offer.
So, whether you’re a local or a visitor, don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in York’s springtime magic!