Whether you’re venturing out to discover new places, or you’re commuting around the area you have lived in for your whole life, often, travelling by bus can introduce you to some of the hidden gems dotted around that may have otherwise gone undiscovered.
Today, we’re shining the spotlight on one of York’s bus routes which connects the south of the city to the north. The number 12 First Bus route is ideal for exploring the lesser-known outskirts of York city centre, and here, we’ll be giving you a guided tour of some of our favourite hidden gems on the route, and giving you the full insight into where to get off and what you’ll find there.
Bus stop: Foxwood Lane Shops
Caboodle – The team at Caboodle have been trading since 1999 and continuously offer a reliable service to domestic and industrial customers. Listening to their customer requirements, they have improved their range of stock and services, aiming to help their customers in any way they can. This hardware store has equipment such as tools, timber, electricals, houseware and gardening hardware available.
49-51 Foxwood Ln, York YO24 3LQ
Bus stop: Slingsby Road
The Fox & Roman – The menus at The Fox & Roman are full of hearty favourites and country pub classics, as well as a well-stocked bar including cask ales, fine wines and British gin which can be enjoyed in their beautiful gardens or by the crackling log fires. The name reflects the former use of the building, which was The Fox Hotel and a Roman grave found on the site in 1833.
58 Tadcaster Rd Dringhouses, Dringhouses, York YO24 1LR
Cafe at No.12 – Pop in and grab a table in Cafe at No.12 on Tadcaster Road by York Racecourse. Their seasonal changing menu includes artisan sandwiches, cakes and even a build your own salad box, perfect for those who are picky eaters. All produce is fresh and everything is homemade daily to give nothing but the best quality for their hungry customers.
Bus stop: Peasholme Green
Arras – Arras was originally opened in 2007 in Sydney, and eventually moved over to the UK after a new team took over. They strive to serve interesting food, looking for ingredients that taste delicious and adapt their ideas to what works on the plate. Many of their products are locally grown and sourced seasonally.
The Old Coach House, Peasholme Green, York YO1 7PW
Earworm Records – Earworm Records opened in 2013 with an aim to provide the city with quality music on vinyl from across the musical spectrum. Specialising in both new and second-hand stock, you can find records from every genre including indie, rock, jazz and disco. Earworm is the place you can get expert friendly advice and listen to your records pre-purchase on their listening decks.
1 Powells Yard, Goodramgate, York YO1 7LS
Rafi’s Spicebox – Since opening the first Rafi’s Spicebox in 1989, they’ve wanted everyone who visits them to feel confident that they can go home and cook delicious food. You can pop by for tips & advice, menu planning ideas and our handmade Curry Packs, tailored to your tastes. They also have a large range of loose spices, gift sets & kitchenware, pickles & chutneys, snacks & sweets, breads, rice and much more.
17 Goodramgate, York YO1 7LW
Cleggs – Tucked away at the end of Goodramgate, is Cleggs, a family run business that supplies a wide range of gifts and items perfect for your home. As well as stocking items such as rugs, decorative accessories and jewellery sourced from around the world, they also make their own products including kits to make your own gifts.
6 Goodramgate, York YO1 7LQ
