There is lots to do in and around York all year round. The City has dozens of events, festivals and museums to cater for all tastes.
Holgate Windmill is 30 mins walk from Mallard in the middle of a suburban roundabout! Check opening times http://www.holgatewindmill.org
Fairfax House, Castlegate, is well worth a visit – furnished so you get an idea what it was like to live there. Really interesting and lots of enthusiastic, knowledgeable volunteer guides to help you.
The National Railway Museum, over the road from Mallard, is free. Much beloved by little – and not so little – people
Cityscreen in Lendal – about a mile from each flat – is a must for film lovers. 3 screens, large bar with good food and riverside terrace. Basement Club offers music and comedy.
There is a good amateur theatre round the corner from Foss, in Haxby Road. https://www.josephrowntreetheatre.co.uk
York Racecourse – races throughout the summer and autumn www.yorkracecourse.co.uk/racing/fixtures/
The City Art Gallery – alas no longer free – was a finalist for Museum of the Year in 2016.
Lots lots more – see the Visit York website! www.visityork.org