Dean's Park
📍 2 Minster Yard, York YO1 7JJ, UK
About Dean's Park
Dean's Park offers a delightful escape right in the heart of York, nestled directly behind the magnificent York Minster. This charming public green space is highly regarded by visitors, boasting an excellent Google rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars. It's renowned as a tranquil spot, perfect for those seeking a moment of calm amidst their city explorations.
Visitors consistently praise the park's serene atmosphere, making it an ideal location for leisurely strolls and peaceful relaxation. Many choose to unwind on its ample benches, soaking in the beautiful views of the Minster and the surrounding area. It's a popular choice for families and friends to enjoy a picnic, especially on a sunny day, with reviews often highlighting its welcoming environment.
Adding to its appeal, the park often features an ice-cream vendor, providing a refreshing treat for those warm afternoons. A particular favourite for many is the delightful discovery of a beloved literary character, Paddington Bear, who can sometimes be found seated on a bench, much to the delight of visitors young and old. Dean's Park provides a perfect blend of natural beauty and historical grandeur, offering a memorable experience for everyone.
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📍 2 Minster Yard, York YO1 7JJ, UK
from 694 reviews
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Reviews from Google Maps.
Showing 5 of 694 reviews from Google Maps.Last updated 6 February 2026.
A lovely wander around the minister & Deans park where Paddington sits on a bench. People sat eating, having an ice-cream on the benches, a beautiful place.
This is a small park right behind the York Minster. What a lovely place to just sit, relax, and enjoy the view. You can even meet Paddington there!
A peaceful park behind York Minster with an ice-cream cafe and plenty of seats. On a sunny, summer's day it makes a good place for a picnic - and you could share your marmalades sandwiches with Paddington!
This is such a lovely area to visit just at the edge of the York Minster. It has paths running around the edge and plenty of seating. Walking through today I was pleased to see that done areas have not been mown, leaving good natural habitat for the wildlife. It can get quite busy as some people are simply passing through en route to the Minster or further afield but it is relatively calm and peaceful. I haven’t noticed them on previous visits, so possibly new additions, but there were a couple of colourful picnic tables at one end and also an icecream van. Great views of the Minster, particularly if you walk out towards the back and onto Deansgate. Look out for Paddington sitting on one of the benches-popular photo opportunity!
A beautiful green space shaded by magnificent mature trees, this is a popular picnic spot for families and people of all ages. There are lots of benches to choose from, and a vendor selling ice-cream and drinks near the park's entrance. Dogs are allowed in on a lead. Parts of the park have been left to grow a bit wild, with bee friendly plants and flowers. There are still remnants of the medieval Archbishop's Palace that once stood on this site, including a richly carved stone arcade that has been turned into a war memorial. This was the ideal place for me to enjoy my picnic lunch, with lovely views of the Minster and the sound of its bells chiming every quarter hour. A peaceful respite from York's crowded streets.