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.  Originally founded by the Romans in 71AD it was once in line to be England's capital city.  But King Richard II was deposed before he could make this come to fruition. 

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. In this article we take a look at a few of the places which attract visitors to them year after year.

1.     York Minister – This is England's largest surviving medieval building and also the biggest cathedral to be found in Europe north of the Alps. It has dominated the skyline of York for over 800 years and is a wonderful example of gothic architecture to be found anywhere in England today. 

Although you do not have to pay for entry into the main part of the Minister 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 - 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. In these areas they found clothing and tools which had been buried for more than 1,000 years. To really see what life was like in a Viking settlement then take the time capsule ride and you can travel back to a reconstructed Viking settlement. The ride offers views of some of the remains of the buildings that were found during the dig.

3.     York Castle Museum – You can step back in time again, viewing life in York over the years. You can examine detailed reconstructions 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 the way they have been used as transport. It is here you will see Stephenson's Rocket and also the record holding steam engine, Mallard.

If you want a different angle on history make sure you book on the York Ghost Trail. And go back to the city's darker days.

Book your York hotel or guest house here.