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.

Along this journey from the character-filled town of Heworth to the sought-after village of Bishopthorpe, we begin in the place that was once the home of Dame Judi Dench, a village that has established itself as a part of the city centre, rather than a nearby suburb. Connecting the neighbouring suburbs to the bustling city is what First Buses are for, and the number 11 is ideal for those of you wanting to explore and discover some hidden gems of your own.

Bus stop: Heworth Village

No3 Heworth – This bright cafe is the perfect place for you to chill out and enjoy a hot drink, breakfast or treating yourself to lunch. If you like simplicity, you can’t go wrong with their cheeses and home cooked meats. Or if you’re feeling more adventurous, they offer interesting combinations in luxury hot sandwiches like their crayfish and black pudding option.

3 Heworth Village, Heworth, York YO31 1AE

Heworth Plaice – Traditional fish and chips is the perfect treat after a long day at work or to enjoy on the weekend. Being one of the oldest fish and chips restaurants in York, the team promise to bring good quality food at affordable prices.

83 Heworth Rd, Heworth, York YO31 0AA

Bus stop: Layerthorpe Asda

Doe Bakehouse – With three bright and wonderful shops in Yorkshire, the people of York are lucky to have one in Heworth. You can escape from reality and appreciate their selection of doe-nuts. They aspire to make the lightest, brightest and tastiest doe-nuts you’ll have ever tried, with flavours such as ‘Percy Pug’, ‘Jaffa Cake’, ‘Pumpkin Spice’ and ‘Boston Cream’ as well as others.

43 Layerthorpe, Heworth, York YO31 7UZ

CycleStreet – Ran by a group of experts with over 45 years of cycle maintenance experience, Cyclestreet can help with any problems from minor repairs to custom builds. Since being set up back in 2010, they have focused on quality rather than price. With experts in electric bikes, clothing and accessories available and knowledgeable staff to guide you on the best routes, they’re the only place you’ll want to visit for all your repairs.

87 Layerthorpe, Heworth, York YO31 7UZ

Bus stop: Bishopthorpe Road Shops

The Bishy Weigh – On the corner of the busy Bishopthorpe Road high street you can find The Bishy Weigh. Famously known for being a weigh-and-pay pantry and household goods store, you will discover hundreds of ingredients, toiletries and gifts to choose from that are all free from plastic packaging. Most of their products are sold by weight, so you can buy as little or as much as you need. You can bring your own containers to fill up, use their recycled paper bags or buy new containers in store.

1 Bishopthorpe Rd, York YO23 1NA

Good Food Shop – Also on the famous Bishy Road is the Good Food Shop. This independent delicatessen and store was established in 1987, and has become a key part of the community surrounded by other thriving businesses. This deli is filled with plenty of locally baked artisan bread, fresh salads, charcuterie, cheese and confectionery. They pride themselves on sourcing the finest local and international produce including Italy, Spain and Mexico.

20 Bishopthorpe Rd, York YO23 1JJ

Setting the Scene with Flowers – Rather than following suit and going down the traditional route of being a florist, the team at Setting the Scene put the delicious scents, bright colours and textures as a priority in their designs. Creating handmade bespoke bouquets and arrangements, they are the perfect fit for every occasion.

1A Vine St, York YO23 1BB

Millie’s – Since 1920, the team at Millies have become York’s premium greengrocers. They stock an amazing range of locally grown produce all year round, they’re a haven for foodies. Millie’s also stocks products from other local businesses including Bracken Hill Jams, curry mixes from Rafi’s Spicebox and Longley Farm Yoghurts. They offer a 10% discount for all customers, simply by printing out a card.

35 Bishopthorpe Rd, York YO23 1NA

Helston Street – Helston Street is a mother and daughter partnership, who have a passion for all things stylishly vintage and dried flowers. Their rustic, country feel shop finds unique pieces using a palette of natural earthy materials. They dry their flowers fresh on a weekly basis and create wonderful bouquets, or will help you with a specially made one if you take a visit to their shop.

4 Scarcroft Rd, York YO23 1NB

Bus stop: Middlethorpe Hall

Middlethorpe Hall – Middlethorpe Hall is just two miles from the city centre, and is a William III country house set within its own 20 acres of parkland and gardens. Since being built back in 1699, it has grown into a four star hotel, restaurant and spa, regularly hosting events and weddings all year round.

Bishopthorpe Rd, York YO23 2GB