York: What To Do When You Visit York

The historic city of York can be found where the rivers Ouse and Foss join each other and has been an important city for nearly 2,000 years now.  The Romans founded the city in 71 AD and 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 it will take several days before it is all seen when you visit 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 also the biggest cathedral to be found in Europe north of the Alps. 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. Plus you need to take into consideration it is a long climb up and back down again in order to view the city from a completely different angle. 

2.    Jorvik Centre - When archaeologists were carrying out investigations in the Coppergate area of the city they found houses and workshops dating back to the times when the Vikings laid claim to this land. The artefacts they found, including tools and clothing, date back over a thousand years. The time capsule ride attempts to recreate Viking life and travel back in time and visit a reconstructed Viking settlement. The ride offers views of some of the remains of the buildings that were found during the 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 and the exhibits often include original artefacts.

4.    National Railway Museum – Probably the largest and most comprehensive railway museum in the world. 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.

For something a little more unusual make sure you book on the York Ghost Trail. Here you can learn more about the cities more gruesome and blood chilling history.

Book your York hotel or guest house here.