Ancient city walls and Gothic York Minster dominate this medieval English town. Explore winding streets, visit cozy pubs, and experience local festivals against a historic backdrop.
York is a city in the United Kingdom with a history spanning two millennia. As you walk through its cobblestone streets lined with timber-framed buildings, you'll see the York Minster cathedral, explore the narrow lanes of the Shambles, and can climb the city walls for unique views. The city has several museums covering different periods of its past, from Roman times to the Viking era. York's restaurants serve local specialties and its pubs offer a variety of real ales. The surrounding Yorkshire countryside provides opportunities for day trips to areas like the Yorkshire Dales and North York Moors.
Exploring York's Historic Core
York's compact city center is ideal for walking tours. Begin at York Minster, one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Northern Europe. You can climb the central tower for views over the city's rooftops and medieval walls. Next, visit the Shambles, where timber-framed buildings lean so close they almost touch above the narrow lane. This former butchers' street now contains shops and cafes.
Walk on the city walls for a different view of York. The walls extend for 2 miles around the old city, with stone gatehouses called "bars" at intervals. Monk Bar contains a small museum about Richard III, while Micklegate Bar was the traditional entry point for royalty into the city.
York's Museums
Several museums in York cover different aspects of its history. At the Jorvik Viking Centre, you can ride through a recreation of a 10th-century Viking settlement, complete with sights, sounds, and smells. The Yorkshire Museum displays Roman and medieval artifacts found in the region. For a change of pace, visit the National Railway Museum, which houses over 100 locomotives and explains the development of rail transport in Britain.
Food and Drink
York has developed a reputation for good food in northern England. You can try local dishes like Yorkshire pudding and have afternoon tea at Bettys Café Tea Rooms, which has been operating since 1936. The streets around the Shambles have many pubs that serve real ales. For a more upscale meal, you can book a table at Roots, a Michelin-starred restaurant that focuses on seasonal Yorkshire produce.
Day Trips from York
York is well-situated for exploring the surrounding region. To the west, you'll find the hills and stone villages of the Yorkshire Dales. To the east is the coastline of the North York Moors with its fishing villages. History enthusiasts might enjoy visiting Castle Howard, a stately home located 15 miles northeast of York.
Getting There and Around
York is on the main rail line between London and Edinburgh, with frequent direct trains from both cities that take about 2 hours. Once in York, you can explore the city center on foot. Buses connect to sites outside the center and nearby towns. If you want to explore the countryside, renting a car will give you more flexibility.
