The historic city of York can be found where the rivers Ouse and Foss join each other and has been one of the UK’s most important cities for around two thousand years. Originally founded by the Romans in 71AD it was once in line to be England’s capital city. However, King Richard II who wished for this to happen was deposed before it could be done.
Certainly there is so much history to be discovered about this wonderful city and you should set aside several days to take in all the sights when you stay in York. Here are some of the city’s attractions for your shortlist.
1. York Minister – This is now the largest medieval building in England today and is the largest cathedral in northern Europe. This building has dominated the skyline of this city for more than 8 centuries now and is a wonderful example of gothic architecture to be found anywhere in England today.
Entrance to the main part of York Minster is free there is a small admission fee to climb the central tower and witness the spectacular city views it offers. The climb up (and back!) is long but the views make it well worthwhile.
2. Jorvik Viking Centre – Celebrating York’s Viking days, which were previously discovered in a an archaeological dig in the Coppergate area of the city. The artefacts they found, including tools and clothing, date back over a thousand years. The time capsule ride attempts to recreate Viking life and you can travel back to a reconstructed Viking settlement. As you travel you have the chance to view some of the well preserved 10th Century buildings that were discovered during the time of the archaeological dig.
3. Castle Museum – You can step back in time again, viewing life in York over the years. Originally founded in 1938 one has the chance to wander through historical periods of British life through detailed sets of the time that have been lovingly recreated using many original articles.
4. National Railway Museum – Of all the museums of this sort in the world today this is not only the largest but the most comprehensive of them as well. Through wandering around this wonderful museum one can learn about the history of railways and how they became one of our mainstream methods of transport. It is here you will see Stephenson’s Rocket and the Mallard being the fastest steam locomotive in the world still today.
If you want a different angle on history then why not arrange to take the Ghost Trail of York. Here you can learn more about the cities more gruesome and blood chilling history.
Book your York hotel or bed and breakfast here.
