York Attractions: Things To See and 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.
The city of York is steeped in history 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 England’s largest surviving medieval building and is the largest cathedral in northern Europe. It has dominated the skyline of York for over eight hundred years 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 - 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. 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. 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 – 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. You can learn about the history of railways through the ages and the way they have been used as 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.
Choose your York hotel or bed and breakfast from this list.