NIGHTS out in York are the second most expensive in the country, according to a surprising new survey.

The average person spends £29.60 in the city on travel, drinks and late night food, second only to London, which costs a wallet-busting £32.

The Welsh capital of Cardiff came out cheapest with only £17.54 required for a night out, while the national average was £26.60.

Gillian Cruddas, chief executive of York Tourism Bureau, said: "We are surprised by the result of this survey.

"If the perception is that a night out in York more expensive than other cities, we need to work to change this.

"York is extremely popular for its night-life and we need to show how we can offer even better value for money and work with businesses to offer incentives for younger people to visit."

Residents gave the Evening Press mixed views. Some said that Friday and Saturday nights could be quite expensive, but others said a visit to the cinema or theatre could be very reasonable.

The price index devised by Young Persons Railcard was calculated based on the average price of a bus ticket, pint of beer, entrance to a club, taxi fare, and the essential late-night grub.

Joanna Ford, who organised the survey, said: "This index is intended as a guide to indicate the minimum cost of a cheap and fun night out. We want to ensure people get the best value for money."

Jack Merry, landlord of the Tap and Spile, said: "Unfortunately, pricing is not a level playing field. Some bigger pubs can afford to buy in bulk and hold special promotions.

"Overall prices in York are not over-inflated and cheap prices don't mean people are getting a 'better' night out."

Andy Livingstone, owner of St George's Hotel, said: "The prices in York are the same as any other city, especially if they are in a prime spot."

Student Steve Scott, 20, from Heworth, said: "It is too expensive on a Friday and Saturday night.I go out on the student nights in town."

Updated: 09:44 Saturday, October 15, 2005