YORK
A Historic and Cosmopolitan Getaway in Northern England
Looking for a perfect city break? Look no further than York! It is a city in Northern England with a rich history that spans over 2,000 years. It was founded by the Romans in 71 AD and later became an important centre for Viking culture.
York is often considered one of the most picturesque cities in England because of its ancient city walls, Gothic cathedral and quaint cobbled streets. It is also a vibrant hub of cultural activity, boasting a thriving arts and dining scene, museums, and festivals. This charming and cosmopolitan city has everything you need for a memorable getaway.
A Picturesque and Enchanting City
How To Get Here
Travelling on the LNER train is an experience in itself. The train service is known for its exceptional service and comfortable seating, allowing passengers to relax and take in the scenic views of the English countryside. The journey from London King Cross to York takes just under two hours, during which you’ll be able to enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi, food, and drink service if you book first-class tickets.
You can buy your tickets from the Trainline app or website and select London King Cross to York as your start and end destination. You will get a discount on your original ticket price if you hold a valid travel card. You can choose single or return tickets 1st class or 2nd class tickets based upon your requirements.
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After arriving at York station, we headed to the Middletons Hotel, located just a short distance away from the station. This luxurious hotel is nestled in the York city centre, making it a perfect base for exploring the city. The hotel boasts an elegant and sophisticated interior, with spacious and comfortable rooms, equipped with all modern amenities. You can click here for making a reservation or check out the hotel rooms by clicking here.
We had the pleasure of dining at Hotel Middleton for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The hotel’s restaurant offers a range of delicious dishes using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, and the menu caters to a variety of dietary requirements. The restaurant had a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, and the staff were friendly and attentive, making our dining experience even more enjoyable.
Places to Visit in York
Our first day in York began with a visit to York Minster, one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. The stunning architecture and intricate details of the cathedral are truly awe-inspiring. One of the highlights of our visit was climbing the 275 steps to the top of the central tower, where we were rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the city. As we made our way up the winding staircase, we could feel the history and grandeur of the cathedral. Once we reached the top, we were mesmerised by the breathtaking views of the city.
After visiting York Minster, we headed to Shambles Market, a bustling and vibrant market located in the heart of York. The market is home to a variety of stalls selling everything from handmade crafts to vintage clothing. It’s a great place to experience the local culture and indulge in some retail therapy. One of the standout features of the market was the Harry Potter-themed shops, which are a must-visit for any Potterhead. The shops are filled with magical merchandise, including wizard robes, wands and other accessories. The food stalls at the market offer a wide variety of local and international cuisine.
Next, we visited York Dungeon, an interactive experience that took us on a journey through some of the most gruesome and terrifying events in York’s history. The attraction brings the city’s dark past to life through live actors, special effects, and detailed sets. We were taken on a 75-minute tour through 10 different shows, each telling a different tale of York’s history. One of the standout experiences at the dungeon is the ‘Plague’ show, where visitors are taken back to the 14th century and experience the horrors of the Black Death. The show uses realistic sets and special effects to create a truly immersive experience.
Then we headed to the York Chocolate Story and the museum takes you on a journey through the history of chocolate, from the Mayan civilization to the present day. The tour begins with a brief history of the cocoa bean and its journey from the tropics to York, where it was turned into delicious chocolate treats. One of the standout features of the tour is the interactive chocolate-making demonstration, where we learned how to make their chocolate lollipops and it also includes tastings of different types of chocolates.
Next, we headed to the York Museum, where we explored the city’s fascinating history. One of the highlights of the museum is the recreated Victorian street, Kirkgate, where you can walk down the cobbled street and explore the shops and homes of the era. The museum offers a range of interactive displays, activities, and workshops, making it an enjoyable and educational experience for visitors of all ages.
On day two, we visited The Jorvik Viking Centre, which is a fascinating and immersive attraction that brings to life the Viking history of York. We were transported back in time to the Viking Age, where we explored a reconstructed Viking village complete with authentic sights, sounds and smells. The village is based on archaeological evidence from the Coppergate excavation. We saw how the Vikings lived, worked, and traded in York. The Jorvik Viking Centre also includes a museum with a vast collection of Viking artefacts, including jewellery, weapons and household items.
Next, we headed to The City Walls of York, which is one of the most iconic and well-preserved examples of medieval city walls in the UK. One popular section is the stretch between Bootham Bar and Monk Bar, which offers spectacular views of the York Minster and the surrounding cityscape. Another section of the walls that is worth visiting is the stretch between Monk Bar and Micklegate Bar, which includes several well-preserved towers and turrets, as well as the Museum at Monk Bar. However, you should note that the City Walls can be accessed from several different points, and exploring the walls in your entirety is a rewarding and unique experience.
Finally, we visited Clifford’s Tower, which is an iconic landmark in York. At the foot of the mound is an open area known as the Eye of York. This was the site of the medieval castle courtyard. The real highlight is the panoramic view from the top. The tower’s exterior is just as impressive, with its striking circular shape and imposing stone walls. With its fascinating history, stunning views, and incredible architecture, it offers a unique and unforgettable glimpse into the city’s past and present.
In conclusion, it’s clear that York is a city that truly has it all. From its rich history and stunning architecture to its vibrant cultural scene and welcoming atmosphere, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re a history buff eager to explore ancient landmarks, a foodie looking to indulge in local delicacies, or simply seeking a relaxing getaway, York is the perfect destination for a city break. With so much to see and do, you’ll never be bored in this incredible city. It’s no wonder that York continues to enchant and captivate visitors from around the world. So why not plan your next adventure to this extraordinary city and discover all that York has to offer?
