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.

Throughout this journey from Acomb to Haxby, we begin in the suburb of Acomb, only 3 miles from the city centre. Then onto the thriving, small town of Haxby, perhaps one of Yorkshire’s lesser known villages, filled with hidden gems. Connecting the neighbouring suburbs to the bustling city is what First Buses are for, and the number 1 is ideal for those of you wanting to explore and discover some hidden gems of your own.

Bus stop: Acomb Methodist Church

Keen Hands – Keen Hands is a local, family-run yarn shop on Front Street. Other than selling the essentials for all your knitting and crochet needs, they run classes throughout the week to help you master your crocheting skills. You can become a member of their clubs and pick up a new hobby!

79 Front St, Acomb, York YO24 3BR

Floral Elegance – Floral Elegance was first established in 2002, and since then the team have designed floral arrangements and displays for thousands of events. Carefully crafted by hand, each arrangement created with the highest quality products that can be designed in time for a special day or as a random gift.

49 Front St, Acomb, York YO24 3BR

Bus stop: Cambridge Street

The Prickly Pear – On Holgate Road you can find The Prickly Pear, a little haven of freshly brewed coffee, fine foods, pastries and cakes. Only open since December 2020, this little cafe and delicatessen has become the best stop for a quick coffee to go or a great meet-up spot for breakfast and lunch.

40 Holgate Rd, Holgate, York YO24 4AB

Bus stop: Exhibition Square

Sore Thumb Retro Games – On the popular street of Gillygate in York, Sore Thumb Retro Games can be located. Selling all the sought-after consoles and games from companies such as Nintendo and Sega, as well as other imported stock. With thousands of games to choose from, even back from the 80s, step back in time and relive your childhood memories.

7 Gillygate, York YO31 7EA

Love Cheese – Also on Gillygate is Love Cheese, a little shop run by a team who has a passion for good food and drink. Sitting underneath the historic city walls, this bistro serves up an array of delicious food, including cheese-&-cracker boards, tasting experiences and lots of wine.

16 Gillygate, York YO31 7EQ

Bus stop: Clarence Gardens

Goodfillers York – Nothing can beat a good sandwich shop, and Goodfillers on Haxby Road stay true to their name. Available to eat in or takeaway, they have a variety of sandwich fillings along with full english breakfasts, jacket potatoes and wraps, they’re the perfect place for some comfort food or a hangover cure.

Haxby Rd, York YO31 8JU

Bus stop: Memorial Hall

Aroma Coffee Shop – Since 2008, the team at Aroma Coffee Shop have been serving the people of Haxby and Wigginton. What first started as an idea, became a beacon at the heart of the community where people of all ages can chat and relax, surrounded by great coffee and freshly prepared food.

30 The Village, Haxby, York YO32 3HT

The Curious Coffee Company – This independent coffee shop in Haxby caters to most tastes with gluten free options in company with small snacks, lunchtime meals, all day brunches and our award-winning brownies. Where possible they use local independent suppliers and all their food is freshly made.

8, Haxby Shopping Centre, Haxby, York YO32 2LU