About York
The city of York is one of the most historic places in England. A settlement has been on the site from ancient times but was established as a city by the Romans in 71AD. Since then it has been occupied by Saxons, Vikings and Normans. It was the only place outside London with 2 castles, both built by William the Conqueror and reinforced the importance of York as a strategically important city. Nowadays it is a University city with international tourism an increasingly important source of revenue. In 2017, York became the UK’s first human rights city.
Getting to York
Probably the easiest way to get to York is by train, just use our trains in Europe search to compare deals. If you are coming from abroad, then a cheap flight to Leeds is your option. Situated on the main East Coast line between Edinburgh and London, the station is less than a mile from the City Centre. The nearest airport is Leeds / Bradford some 33 miles away. The main access roads are the A1(M) /M62 about 30 minutes to the West and South, respectively.
As you can imagine the city has a rich cultural heritage with some of the main attractions listed below:
York Minster (Deangate) A Gothic Cathedral which was built in its present form in 1472 and took 250 years to complete. It was the centre of Christianity in the North of England, but the building has experienced 4 fires, the latest being in 1984 when it was struck by lightning, fortunately the restoration is now complete, and the cathedral has been fully restored to its former glory. The main attractions are the Medieval stained glass and the view at the top of the central tower which gives you an unrivalled panorama from the highest point in the city. In the underground chambers (Undercroft) you can have an audio visual and interactive experience showing the history and artefacts of the Cathedral. The admission prices to the Undercroft are £11.50 with concessions and £5 for the Tower tour.
York Castle Museum (Tower Street) Despite its name, this museum is not about York Castle but is a social history museum with a cobbled Victorian Street and themed areas containing memorabilia from past decades. It occupies the building that was formerly the debtors’ prison and there is indeed the prison within the museum. Various characters dressed in period costume are on hand to explain the different exhibits. An ideal day out for the family, you can easily spend 2 – 3 hours there.
The remains of the castle are just outside the museum, Clifford’s Tower, perched on a hill above the car park.
City Wall The City Wall is now split into 3 parts but is a wonderful way to walk around the city. It is accessed from the medieval gateways and it is useful to take a map to see where each section starts and finishes. In some places it is narrow and there are quite a few steps, but you will get a real feeling for the history of York.
JORVIK Viking Centre (19 Coppergate) A full Viking experience with a reconstructed Viking village actually built on the excavations of the Viking settlement of Jorvik. With animatronics, touch screens and rides, the ancient Viking communities comes to life (including the sounds and smells of the village!). Another very family friendly exhibition showing living history with knowledgeable staff.
Your ticket is also valid for 1 year should you wish to make another visit.
National Railway Museum (Leeman Road) The Railway Museum is a history of the British railways with steam engines and even a bullet train. Even if you are not a railway enthusiast, you can easily spend a morning or afternoon immersing yourself from times past to the present. Easily accessible from York station, the museum is free but welcomes donations. Another child friendly experience.
York Art Gallery (Exhibition Square) Housed in a 19th century building, the gallery houses works from the 15th century to the present day. The galleries are big and light with exhibitions being held regularly also there is a good café and gift shop on site.
Yorkshire Museum (Museum Street) An archaeological and natural history museum with 5 galleries. It is set in Museum park next to St Mary’s Abbey (itself a contemporary gallery).
Barley Hall (2 Coffee Yard) A Medieval townhouse that has been restored to its former glory after nearly being sold for redevelopment in 1984. Now a venue for exhibitions, it is also a valuable educational resource owned by the York Archaeological Trust.
Merchant Adventurers’ Halls (Fossgate) A Grade 1 Medieval Guild Hall from the 14th century now used as a museum and a venue for weddings and dinners.
Fairfax House (Castlegate) A Georgian townhouse museum with various collections including furniture and clocks. Guided tours are provided by volunteers.
Betty’s Café Tea Rooms (6-8 St Helens Square) A Local Tea Room with an Art Deco Interior and furnishings inspired by the Queen Mary ocean liner. Regarded by many as a must visit place when in York.
The Shambles A 13th century narrow street which is probably one of the most photographed places in York. Several buildings are half timbered and consist of a variety of independent retailers.
These are a few of the many cultural attractions in York, it is always a good idea to check with the Tourist Information (1 Museum Street) to find out the various exhibitions and events in the venues.
