Things to do in York
It is one of England's favourite tourist destinations, so a holiday in York is not to be missed when touring the UK. York is a compact medieval cathedral city that can trace its history back to the Vikings, and features some of the best-preserved historic buildings in Europe. Apart from the impressive historic sights, many travel to York for its numerous festivals, which range from celebrating ancient Romans to horse racing and jazz. The city's greatest attractions are the epic York Minster Cathedral (one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world) and Castle Howard, which give visitors a taste of York's grandiose architecture.
Other popular attractions in the city include the fascinating Jorvik Viking Centre, the York Maze, and the Shambles, one of Europe's best-preserved medieval cobbled streets. The Shambles area is well worth an afternoon stroll, with its winding narrow lanes, picturesque buildings and quaint shops. Alternatively, a more 'otherworldly' way to experience this historic area is on the York Ghost Hunt, a fun and fascinating tour that operates rain or shine through the city streets, in search of York's more elusive residents. Those who enjoy a touch of the spooky and macabre will also relish a visit to the York Dungeons.
Castle Howard
Award-winning Castle Howard is one of York's most striking attractions. Home to the Howard family for over 300 years, the castle took 100 years to build, outliving several architec…
Castle Howard
Award-winning Castle Howard is one of York's most striking attractions. Home to the Howard family for over 300 years, the castle took 100 years to build, outliving several architects, craftsmen, and three earls, before eventually becoming the setting for the popular TV series, Brideshead Revisited. The spectacular estate comprises acres of farmland and exquisite gardens, while the interior is a treasure trove of paintings, furniture, sculptures, and more. Visitors can enjoy a self-guided tour, but historical costumed guides are available to answer questions and share information about the history of the house, the Howard family and the collections. Regular guided tours are also available, and the castle frequently plays host to a range of exhibitions, lectures, events, and dinners. The castle also has a gift shop, cafes, and a plant centre.
Website www.castlehoward.co.uk
York Minster
For over a thousand years, York Minster has been the principal place of worship in York and its surrounding areas. The largest Gothic cathedral in Europe, this impressive building …
York Minster
For over a thousand years, York Minster has been the principal place of worship in York and its surrounding areas. The largest Gothic cathedral in Europe, this impressive building is open to the public and visitors can enjoy the peace and beauty of the interior of the church and its many stained glass windows, including the well-known Rose Window. Visitors are also able to marvel at the fascinating ancient remains held beneath the church, in the Undercroft, and to enjoy the spectacular views from the top of its 275-step tower. Audio tours are available and York Minster also has its own gift shop, as well as a restaurant and cafe.
Website www.yorkminster.org
Jorvik Viking Centre
Set on a 'Viking Dig' archaeological site, the Jorvik Viking Centre is a fascinating exploration of the Viking presence in York over 1,000 years ago. Between 1976 and 1981, the Yor…
Jorvik Viking Centre
Set on a 'Viking Dig' archaeological site, the Jorvik Viking Centre is a fascinating exploration of the Viking presence in York over 1,000 years ago. Between 1976 and 1981, the York Archaeological Trust excavated thousands of Viking-era objects, including wooden houses, alleyways and fence lines, all part of the ancient centre of Viking power in England, Jorvik. Shortly after, the centre opened its doors and swiftly became a popular tourist attraction in the city. With over 800 items on display, this 'living history site' presents informative exhibits, reconstructions of the excavated Viking village (including authentic smells and sounds!) and costumed 'Viking' guides, offering visitors the chance to experience what life was like in 975 AD. A highly popular event is the annual Jorvik Viking Festival in February, when Vikings roam the streets of York once more. Visitors can enjoy weaponry displays, hands-on activities (including shield-building and excavating), re-enactments of Viking boat burials, guided walks, an evening of ancient tales and songs, and much more.
Website www.jorvik-viking-centre.co.uk
York Dungeons
Not for the faint-hearted, the York Dungeons present a fascinating journey back in time, and visitors are guaranteed a ghoulish, grisly experience that will be hard to forget. With…
York Dungeons
Not for the faint-hearted, the York Dungeons present a fascinating journey back in time, and visitors are guaranteed a ghoulish, grisly experience that will be hard to forget. With attractions that run the gamut from the plague-riddled streets of 14th-century York, to the Labyrinth of the Lost and its ghostly Lost Roman Legion, to adventures with the legendary highwayman Dick Turpin, to the Pit of Despair, Witch Trials, and a recreated Viking attack, visitors should brace themselves for a hair-raising tour of the more macabre aspects of York's history. Visitors can be tried and convicted in a Judgement of Sinners trial, witness hangings, and marvel at the life-like waxworks on display. The tour is not recommended for those with a nervous disposition or a weak stomach, and children must be accompanied by an adult; nevertheless, the tour is actually as funny as it is scary and is a favourite with all ages.
Website www.thedungeons.com