When deciding between York and Bath for a short stay, both cities offer rich histories, charming atmospheres, and plenty to explore. However, they offer different experiences, so the best choice depends on your personal interests and what you’re hoping to get out of your visit. This is why the team at Stayful have put together a comparison to help you decide

York

York is a historic city with roots going back to Roman times, you can explore the York Minster, a stunning Gothic cathedral, as well as the Shambles, a medieval street lined with quaint shops. The National Railway Museum is also a standout for train enthusiasts.

Famous sites include the Roman Baths (yes, Bath’s Roman connection in York as well), the Jorvik Viking Centre, Clifford’s Tower, and the York Castle Museum. If you’re into ghost stories, York also claims to be one of the most haunted cities in the UK, which is perfect for a spooky walk at night.

York has a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere. It feels a bit more lively and bustling compared to Bath but still retains a small-town charm with its cobblestone streets and historic buildings. York is also easy to access by train from London (about 2 hours). It’s located in the north of England and is often used as a base to explore other northern attractions.

Explore our Stay’s in York here.

Bath

Bath is famous for its stunning Georgian architecture and Roman baths. The Roman Baths and Bath Abbey are the main highlights, along with the Royal Crescent and Pulteney Bridge. Bath also has a strong literary connection, especially with Jane Austen. Besides the famous baths, Thermae Bath Spa offers modern spa experiences using the naturally hot spring water. The Royal Crescent, the Assembly Rooms, and the Jane Austen Centre are also popular places to visit.

Bath is often regarded as a more refined, elegant city with a more laid-back atmosphere compared to York. It has a small but very charming vibe, perfect if you’re looking for relaxation and scenic views.

Bath is located in the south of England and is about a 1.5-hour train ride from London. It’s close to places like the Cotswolds, making it a good base for exploring this beautiful region.

Explore our stay’s in Bath here.

Things to Consider

If you prefer medieval and Viking history – York is the better choice. It has a wealth of Viking, medieval, and Roman heritage to explore.

If you enjoy Georgian architecture and literary history –  Bath would be a great choice, offering both history and a more peaceful, picturesque environment.

Ease of exploring – York is quite compact, making it easy to walk around and explore most things in a short time. Bath, while small, is hilly, and you may need to plan your routes a bit more carefully.

Stayful Opinion

York is Great if you’re interested in a lively, historical experience with a mix of Viking, Roman, and medieval attractions.
Bath on the other hand Ideal if you’re seeking a relaxing, elegant stay with a focus on Georgian beauty, hot springs and literature.
Both cities offer a memorable experience, so it depends on whether you want the charm of medieval streets and history (York) or the relaxing elegance of Georgian architecture and spas (Bath).