Have you ever seen a walled city? Did you know that there was one right here in the UK? York is as famous for it’s city walls as it is for its Universities, it’s connection to all things chocolate and even Vikings! Here we’ll look at some of the best things to do while spending time in York – I guarantee, it won’t be your only visit.
Before you go exploring
It goes without saying that many of us can get drawn into to good to be true deals, weekend breaks and hotels that promise much but deliver little. So, before you commit to anything and pack your suitcase always read up on the company before you book. And remember, if something sounds too good to be true, it probably is!
The York Minster
You don’t have to follow a religion to appreciate the beauty and complexity of York Minster’s architecture. The largest cathedral in all of Northern Europe, it is a must see for any visitor to York. In fact, you may not have a choice! As you can see it’s spires and steeples peering over the other buildings from almost any other part of the city – it is almost inescapable.
Step inside and you can take a well-documented tour, or you can simply allow this beautiful place to draw you in and take yourself to all it’s corners. From the 275 steps up to the tower to it’s foreboding crypt, you’ll also find many interactive displays and exhibits to explore. If you only visit one cathedral in England. Make it this one.
The National Railway Museum
If the idea of trains and rail transport leaves you with images of men with binoculars in rain soaked anoraks, enthusing over coal engines and comparing notebooks, then think again! This museum has something for everyone, with over 100 locomotives to observe and interactive displays to pour over, to passing through the silk lined carriages that once seated Royalty.
You can top it all off with an afternoon tea at the Station Platform café. 2 hours well spent!
The Shambles
These famous, narrow, cobbled streets get their name from the Saxon word: shamel. Which meant slaughterhouse. In times gone by these streets were home to around 26 butchers, these are now gone, and instead the streets are lined with crooked, characterful Tudor buildings from the 15th Century, that seem to overhang so much they almost meet.
A labyrinth of hidey-holes, shops and cafes – The Shambles is one of the most picturesque and photographed streets in all of England.
The Blue Bell
Ever wanted to experience a true, traditional English pub? Look no further than The Blue Bell. This tiny, 200 year old pub, still has the same wood panelled walls as it did all those years ago. Not forgetting the blacked fireplace, and eye opening décor that hasn’t been changed since 1903. If you want a real pub experience and want the very best in Yorkshire ales, then look no further.
