If you have half a day to spend in York, there are plenty of things to do and see. Here are some suggestions:
1. Visit York Minster - This stunning cathedral is a must-see attraction in York. You can take a guided tour or explore on your own. It generally takes about 1-2 hours to fully explore the inside of the Minster.
2. Walk the city walls - York has the best-preserved medieval city walls in England. Take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the stunning views of the city. It takes about 1-2 hours to walk the full circuit.
3. Explore the Shambles - This famous street in York is lined with charming shops and beautiful architecture. It's a great place to wander and take in the history of the city. You could spend 1-2 hours exploring the Shambles and the surrounding area.
4. Visit the Jorvik Viking Centre - If you're interested in history, check out the Jorvik Viking Centre. It's an interactive museum that takes you back in time to the Viking era in York. It takes about 1-2 hours to fully explore the museum.
5. Relax in a pub - York has plenty of cozy pubs where you can enjoy a pint of beer or a cup of tea. Take some time to relax and soak up the atmosphere of this charming city.
Overall, you can see a lot of York in half a day. Try to prioritize what interests you the most and make a plan for your time so you can make the most of your visit.