Exploring the UK

An overview of: York


Where is York?

York is a historic city in northern England, known for its rich history dating back to ancient Roman times.

The city is famous for the stunning York Minster, one of the largest cathedrals in Northern Europe. This masterpiece of Gothic architecture, officially known as The Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of Saint Peter in York, is the seat of the Archbishop of York, the second-highest office in the Church of England.


About the region

York is situated in the region of Yorkshire, specifically in North Yorkshire, one of the largest counties in the United Kingdom.

Yorkshire consists of several key cities, including Leeds, Sheffield, Bradford, and Hull, in addition to York itself. Each city has its unique character and attractions.

The region is particularly famous for its stunning natural landscapes. Yorkshire Dales National Park and North York Moors National Park are two of the most notable, with their picturesque scenery of rolling hills, moorland, valleys, and rugged coastline. The Yorkshire coastline also features notable destinations like the town of Whitby, famous for its ruined abbey and connections to Bram Stoker’s Dracula.

The county is also rich in heritage and history. Its industrial past is evident in cities like Sheffield, known for its steel production, and Leeds, a significant mill town during the Industrial Revolution.

There are also numerous historic homes, castles, and ruins scattered across the region, such as the UNESCO World Heritage site of Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden.


Transportation

York is well-connected by various modes of transport;

  • By Train: York is on the main East Coast Line from London King’s Cross to Edinburgh. Fast trains from London can take as little as 1 hour 45 minutes. Trains from Edinburgh take approximately 2 hours 30 minutes. York is also easily reachable by train from other major cities, including Manchester and Birmingham. The city’s main station is York Station, which is within walking distance of the city centre and major attractions like York Minster.
  • By Air: The nearest major airports to York are Leeds Bradford Airport and Manchester Airport. Leeds Bradford is around 31 miles away and has a range of domestic and international flights. Manchester Airport is a larger international airport and is approximately 85 miles away. From both airports, you can take a train or bus to York, or hire a car.
  • By Car: York is conveniently located in the heart of the UK, making it easily accessible by car. The city is near several major motorways, including the M1 and the A1(M). The A64 connects York with Leeds, and the A19 connects York with Doncaster and Teesside.
  • By Bus: National Express and Megabus run services from a range of UK cities to York. There’s also a comprehensive local bus network in and around the city, including services run by First York and Transdev York.

Living in the area

York provides a diverse range of housing options, from modern apartments in the city centre to quaint, character-filled houses within its medieval walls, and more suburban, family-friendly properties in outlying neighbourhoods. The cost of housing tends to be above the UK average due to York’s appeal and historical significance.

In terms of day-to-day living costs, York aligns fairly closely with the national average. Grocery expenses for a single person might range from £30-£50 per week, while a mid-range three-course meal for two in a restaurant could cost around £50-£70.


Schooling

York offers a variety of childcare and schooling options, catering to the diverse needs of families in the city.

Childcare Options:

  • Nurseries: York has numerous nurseries that provide full-time and part-time care for children from a few months old up to school age. These establishments often offer a mix of play-based learning and early education.
  • Childminders: Childminders look after children in their own homes and typically care for smaller groups than nurseries. This can offer a more personalised and home-like environment for children.
  • Pre-schools and Playgroups: These are usually for children aged between 2 and 5 and offer a combination of play and early learning in a less structured environment than a nursery.

Primary and Secondary Education:

  • State Schools: York has a good mix of state primary and secondary schools. Some of the schools have a religious affiliation, while others are community schools.
  • Independent (Private) Schools: There are also several independent schools in and around York that cater to both primary and secondary-age children. These schools charge tuition fees but may offer smaller class sizes and additional resources.
  • Specialist Schools: York has provisions for children with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they receive tailored support.

Further Education and Tertiary Institutions:

  • York College: A significant provider of further and higher education courses, including A-levels, vocational qualifications, apprenticeships, and some degree-level courses.
  • Universities: The University of York is a prominent Russell Group institution, renowned for its research and wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses. York St John University is another key institution in the city, offering a broad spectrum of courses and having a significant focus on community engagement and the arts.

Leisure

York is a city rich in history with famous spots like York Minster and The Shambles. It offers a mix of activities, from exploring the Jorvik Viking Centre to relaxing in Museum Gardens.

There are theatres for art lovers, unique eateries like Betty’s Tea Rooms, and several annual festivals. With boutique shops, river activities, and nearby countryside, York provides diverse entertainment for everyone.


Healthcare

The York Teaching Hospital NHS Foundation Trust provides a comprehensive range of acute hospital and specialist healthcare services for approximately 800,000 people living in and around York, North Yorkshire, the North East, and Ryedale – an area covering 3,400 square miles. York Hospital is the trust’s largest hospital and provides a full range of acute medical services.

The trust also manages other facilities, including Scarborough Hospital, Bridlington Hospital, Malton Community Hospital, and several others.


Relocation support

How do Doctors Relocate assist with your relocation?

In addition to providing personalised career guidance, facilitating interviews and managing negotiations to secure the right job opportunity for each individual, we offer ongoing relocation support to our candidates, helping with practical matters such as accommodation arrangements, banking, and setting up other essential services.

Our dedicated team is readily available to address any concerns or queries that you have along the way, ensuring that you feel supported and confident throughout your relocation.

With our guidance, you can confidently navigate the relocation journey, focusing on your professional and personal growth in the UK.

Your essential reading list: Top blogs to help with your relocation to the UK

Moving to the UK: Planning and packing tips

Driving in the UK with an overseas license

Buying a car in the UK

The UK education system

School Holidays in the UK

Supermarkets and grocery stores in the UK

Public holidays in the UK

International airports in the UK

Urgent and emergency care services in the UK

Useful information and contacts in the UK

Registering with a GP and Dentist in the UK

Childcare in the UK

Arranging accommodation in the UK


If you’re a doctor interested in NHS positions, please contact our team to discuss the opportunities available to you.