A Weekend In York
If you fancy a short weekend away combining history, culture and outdoor activities, a visit to York could suit all your needs.
Founded by the Romans in 71 AD, the city has a rich heritage encompassing Vikings, Normans and the industrial age, all of which has left behind an abundance of historical sights.
The famous York Minster, the largest Gothic cathedral north of the Alps, dates originally from the 12 century onwards and there are also traces of the original Norman Minster. Visitors aged over eight years can climb the 275 steps of the central tower, and are rewarded with a panoramic view over the city.
Walking around the city’s medieval walls is a popular pastime, followed by a traditional Yorkshire tea in one of the many tea rooms that dot the Shambles, a narrow medieval street where the tops of the houses very nearly meet.
The Jorvik Viking Centre offers an interactive view into the city’s Viking days, whilst a number of medieval buildings such as Barley Hall and the Merchant Adventurers Hall, have been turned into living museums, the latter being the largest timber framed building still standing in the UK.
Coming into the modern age, the National Railway Museum, a few minutes’ walk from the current rail terminus, gives visitors access to 300 years of fascinating rail history. The museum is free, and runs regular special events such as interactive science shows for children.
York is well connected and easily reachable by road. Alternatively, a fast train service from London can get you there in around 2 hours.