Nestled in the heart of Yorkshire, York is a city steeped in history and fascinating architecture. A visit to the city offers a delightful combination of modern and ancient attractions, providing a truly unforgettable experience.
York is undoubtedly one of the most accessible locations in the whole of the UK, which is why it is such a popular tourist destination. With the availability of cheap train tickets to York from a variety of locations like London, Manchester, and Edinburgh, visiting the city is sure to be light work.
In this article, we’ll delve into the various historic parts of York and why it is a must-visit destination for all history enthusiasts.
The York City Walls
Spending time walking around the historic city walls is a great way of seeing York, providing an unparalleled perspective of the city. As you traverse around the Roman-era walls, you’ll be able to admire iconic landmarks like Clifford’s Tower and the Shambles.
If you’re looking to escape from the usual hustle and bustle of the city centre, the walls offer a much-needed escape and are a unique way to fully experience York’s heritage.
York Minster
Dominating York’s skyline, York Minster stands as a remarkable masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Visitors can step inside the cathedral and marvel at its intricate stained glass windows.
Discover the Minster’s intriguing history dating back 800 years, including learning about York’s Roman roots and the Minster’s role during Viking York. You’re also able to climb the Central Tower for panoramic views of the entire city.
Museums Galore
York is home to a wealth of museums, which offer deep insight into the city’s diverse culture and history. Amongst the most popular is the Jorvik Viking Centre, an immersive experience that takes you back to the Viking era.
The ground-breaking exhibit is a replica of what life was like many years ago, reconstructing how the streets would have looked in the 10th century. The best part of the museum however is its world-famous ride, which takes visitors on a journey through Viking life, allowing you to relive different sights, smells, and sounds.
There is also the National Railway Museum for train enthusiasts, which showcases an unrivalled collection of engineering brilliance. Here you’ll find more than a million locomotive-themed memorabilia, including the Mallard, the world’s fastest steam locomotive.
Ghostly Legends
York has been awarded the most haunted city in Europe and it’s no surprise why. With a bloodstained history and more than 500 hauntings within the ancient walls, going on one of the many ghost tours here is not for the faint-hearted.
Tours will typically take you through dark alleyways and winding streets, retelling chilling tales of sightings and paranormal activity. Walking down Mad Alice Lane and hearing the tales of the poor woman who lost her life in 1825 is sure to give you goosebumps.
There are also tales to be heard from places such as the York Dungeon, the Treasurer’s House, and the Golden Fleece pub, which has a supernatural past – and great drinks.
