Summer is finally defrosting, and the sun is making an occurrence more than ever.  

In time for the feel-good weather here are five of the best places to sit and enjoy the sun in and around York for free. 

Museum gardens – YO1 7FR 

Close to the centre of York and transport links, museum gardens is 10 acres of botanical gardens which surrounds Yorkshire Museum. 

Established in 1830 the gardens are free for anyone to enjoy over the summer.  

Dean’s Park – YO1 7JJ 

One of York’s most loved green spaces Dean’s Park is located near the similarly cherished York Minster. 

Home to the Cathedral library and Paddington’s bench the free to enter park has plenty of enrichment for everyone.  

Glen Gardens – YO31 7YB 

Winner of the Green Flag Award every year since 2005, and a short walk from the city centre.

Glen Gardens is home to peaceful green space, bowling greens, children’s playgrounds and more activities for the family during spring and summer.

West Bank Park – YO24 4JB 

Also holding the Green Flag Award, West Bank Park is a 20 acre green space in Holgate.  

With plenty of woodland, trees and walking trails, West Bank Park is a good option to be at one with nature in the city.  

Rowntree Park – YO23 1JQ 

Next to the River Ouse and near the hustle and bustle of York, Rowntree Park again holding a Green Flag Award since 2004 has a lake, tennis court, skate park and more. 

It is also home to a war memorial to remember those who fell during both wars. 

Whether you want to sit in the grass this summer, have a picnic or a game of football, York has plenty to offer free of charge for all the family in the hot coming months.