The magnificent Cathedral in York, known as York Minster is the largest Gothic Cathedral in Northern Europe, renowned for containing the largest collection of medieval stained glass in England. Built in the Early English, Decorated and Perpendicular styles, it is a pure classic of the period. Five hundred and eighteen feet in length, it is two hundred and forty one feet wide at the transept and its central tower rises one hundred and ninety eight feet making it the largest lantern tower in Britain. Bede records that a small wooden chapel was built on this site in 627 A.D. for the baptism of Edwin, king of Northumbria. Edwin's successor Oswald enclosed the chapel in stone and dedicated it to St. Peter, as the Cathedral in York has been known ever since.
In 1068, William the Conqueror built a motte-and-bailey castle on the present site of Clifford’s Tower to strengthen his military presence in the north. Rebuilt in stone in the 13th century, the tower is now the most prominent remaining part of the castle. Today, the tower provides spectacular views over York and show why it played such a key role in the control of northern England in earlier days.
York is often referred to as the capital City of the north of England.
Until the industrial revolution, York was second in size and importance to London. Largely bypassed by the industrial revolution, the city has retained the links with its medieval past more than most places in England. You will find yourself captivated by the magical and historic city boasting 2000 years of history that unfolds as you wander its streets, ginnels and alleyways.
York is a city where sight seeing is easy with most of the attractions lying within the ancient city walls; the area is compact with so much history, architecture and heritage.
Explore Viking history on the very site where archaeologists discovered the remains of the Viking city of Jorvik. Meet resident Vikings (staff), and see 800 of the items found during the dig. You can even journey back to a reconstruction of York in the year AD 975, complete with the sights, sounds and smells of the Viking-Age! Have you ever wanted to: Take part in an excavation? Discover real objects from ancient civilisations? Understand how archaeologists recreate the past? Now you can! This world first is an experience that is all about having a go, visitors will be invited to grab their trowels and get their hands dirty while exploring 2000 years of York’s unique history.
York is one of the Premier tracks in Europe having recently won Flat Racecourse of the Year Award and also came out top in The Times Newspaper survey of all Britain's racecourses. York traces a fascinating history back to Roman and Viking times. Today it is a bustling city growing as a commercial, tourist and regional centre. A fine range of restaurants, shopping opportunities and attractions including the Jorvik Viking Centre and National Railway Museum as well as the history of the Minster, Castle and City Walls, supplements York’s extensive selection of excellent hotel accommodation.
The York Dungeon brings more than 2000 years of gruesomely authentic history vividly back to life...and death! As you delve into the darkest chapters of our grim and bloody past, recreated in all its dreadful detail, remember everything you experience really happened. At York you can test your metal in the Pit of Despair; try to keep the skin crawling off your skeleton in the Plague exhibit; gasp at the audacity and daring of legendary highwayman Dick Turpin and discover the full dreadful details of the ill-fated Gunpowder Plot and the fate of Guy Fawkes.
Set in an elevated position, against the Howardian Hills in the North Riding of Yorkshire, Castle Howard's magnificent façade is visible for miles around. It is the largest house in Yorkshire and has been the home of the Howard family, since the 17th century. Built for the 3rd Earl of Carlisle, Castle Howard was designed by Sir John Vanbrugh, whose first project this was, his second was Blenheim Palace. Sir John chose the brilliant Nicholas Hawksmoor as his clerk of works, which proved to be a partnership of unparalleled excellence and together they created one of England's grandest homes. You will delight in the many elegant architectural features, the balustrade, frieze and pilasters; the statues and the long arched windows, but best of all is the beautiful cupola, which crowns the centre of the house.
Fountains Abbey itself is Britain’s largest monastic ruin and is in fact a world heritage site. The National Trust site provides entertainment for all ages. Bring along a picnic and relax surrounded by the beautiful setting and relaxing atmosphere.
Diagon Alley
Inspiration for the famous street came from York itself – The Shambles helped JK Rowling to create the image of Diagon Alley in the Harry Patter novels.
The City and it's History
York has a rich history and has had many names in its past, from Ebor to Yorvik. Head over to The York Dungeon to go through each period of time.
Chocolate
Some of the UK's family favourite chocolates started in York. The Rowntree factory opened in the 1800’s and can be thanked for training the founder of Cadbury, who then trained the founder of Bournville. Next time you’re eating an aero bar, you can think of York. Visit York’s Chocolate Story to find out more!
Guy Fawkes
Guy Fawkes, famous for trying to blow up parliament in 1605, was born in York. Just metres from the Minster is The Guy Fawkes Inn and the birth place of the man who brought us Bonfire Night.
Cats
There are randomly over 20 cat statues hidden all over the city centre. See if you can find them all hiding in their different spots by doing the Lucky Cat Trail. You may have to look up to spot some
Street history
The Shambles https://www.visityork.org was once a street filled with butchers shops – the architecture of the buildings was designed so that were leaning toward each other to block out the sun so that the meat lasted longer.
Restaurants and Bars
There is a thriving cafe culture in York focussed in the Merchant's Quarter in Fossgate.
York – London
It takes less than 2 hours to get from York direct to London. York is the perfect middle ground between Edinburgh and London and has fantastic train links with most UK cities.
RHS Garden Harlow Carr in Harrogate has one of the most tranquil gardens in Yorkshire, there’s even 27.5 Hectares of it! Harlow Carr gives you the opportunity to discover the Garden’s History, see Harlow Carr’s glow Winter illuminations or even take part in some natural beauty product making workshops. Go and check out what events and workshops they have to offer on their website!
Harrogate Is also home to Britain’s most beautifully restored Victorian Turkish Baths. Discover the unique interior of the baths which date back to the 19th century; sit back and relax in their Health Spa facilities and even take a trip to the original Betty’s Tearoom across the road for Afternoon Tea after your treatments.
The Yorkshire Event Centre is a purpose built venue providing a contemporary, versatile space perfect for exhibitions, corporate events, conferences, product launches, dinners and awards.It has been designed to blend with its beautiful rural surroundings, and the complex has stunning views across the picturesque Crimple Valley. The Centre offers 6,300m2 of flexible event space across 2 halls that can be used equally well in conjunction with each other or on their own.Onsite cafes and 250 acres of external space providing 1000’s of free parking spaces.