What To Do When You Stay in York

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 the town has grown and was at one time going to be the capital of England.  But King Richard II was deposed before he could make this come to fruition. 

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. 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 but to be able to enter the central tower and view the city from above an entry fee is charged. 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. 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 travel back in time and visit 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 – This is a very popular museum with visitors to the city and offers them a chance to view what life has been like throughout the centuries in Britain. You can examine detailed reconstructions 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. 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 make sure you book on the York Ghost Trail. 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.