Castle Howard
As one of the most – if not the most – quintessential English cities in the entire country, it’s no wonder that York is popular with tourists. Founded by the Romans, a central hub for the Vikings and the northern home to the Church of England, the sights and sounds of this historical city are unparalleled in the eyes of visitors wanting a perfect experience of the country. Naturally, it is full of socio-cultural delights that will never fail to impress, even on a second, third or tenth visit.
Micklegate Bar York
The most striking thing about York from the outset is its wonderfully-preserved walls, surrounding most of the inner city. Well-kept by generations of York dwellers for centuries, they are free to walk on top of, while also being complemented by four stunning gatehouses: Micklegate Bar, Monk Bar, Stonegate Bar and Walmgate Bar. Alongside this are the smaller Fishergate and Victoria Bars, as well as the Roman-built Multiangular Tower that was created under the demands of Emperor Septimius Severus. Indeed, these are unmissable sights to behold.
As the most prominent building in the entire city, York Minster is a perfect place to start your visit when you pass through the walls. The largest Gothic cathedral in the UK and the biggest in northern Europe alongside Cologne Cathedral, the Minster dates back to its original foundation in 627. After sieges from the French and Danes, among others, the church is now in the best condition it has ever been following concerted restoration work over the last 40 years.
If more beautiful English views are on your list of priorities, why not visit the most beautiful street in the UK? Google
York Shambles
Maps recently awarded the mind-blowing Shambles with this title. Named after the nickname for the cavalcade of butchers that once graced each of the houses on the narrow street, it now remains one of the more mind-boggling architectural finds in York. Its leaning buildings, which overhang passers-by by several feet, have undoubtedly shaped plenty of creative minds as well as a handful of English stereotypes. It is also home to many boutiques and eateries.
As a proud train-loving town, the transport nexus that is York has been graced with the National Railway Museum. On the other side of the train station to the city, the easily-accessible tourist attraction is home to the Flying Scotsman, Mallard, Green Arrow and City of Truro. It also has a wide array of imported trains, from the Japanese Shinkansen “Bullet Train” to the gargantuan Chinese KF7, as well as famous locomotives such as the Hogwarts Express and Thomas the Tank Engine.
Museum Gardens
A number of other museums are in York that also deserve a visit. You can get the ultimate Viking experience at Jorvik, while the Yorkshire Museum and York Castle Museum are filled with all manner of interesting works. Meanwhile, the Museum Gardens are a great place to relax and unwind in the shade of vast ruins. If you still haven’t got your historical fill, a run up to Clifford’s Tower may be tiring but will deliver one of the best views of the city. York Dungeons, pairing with its sister in London, will be sure to fright and delight in equal measure too.
Still got time to relax in York? Don’t overlook Castle Howard or York Racecourse. Why not even see the sights on a YorkBoat, or hire one for a party? You could turn York into the break of a lifetime and it may only be on your doorstep. Never overlook this beautiful city, because it simply has too much to offer to be overlooked.
