Five Historical Attractions to Visit in York
There are few cities in the British Isles that can boast such a rich heritage as the historic walled city of York. Situated in North Yorkshire, York was founded in 71 AD by the Romans and grew as a city as Britain’s major centre for the wool trade.
For those with a love for British history York should certainly be at the top of your list when it comes to holiday destinations – but before you start looking for hotels in York, booking your train tickets and taking time off work, take a look at this list of 5 great historical activities to wet your appetite.
1. The Yorkshire Museum
Home to some of Britain’s finest archaeological treasures, the recently refurbished Yorkshire museum plays host to 5 new galleries worth of rare fossils, animals and historical artefacts. The museum sits within a beautiful Georgian building that has recently been restored – opening up once divided spaces to the public.
2. York Minster
York’s famous gothic cathedral is the centre piece and one of the most popular tourist attractions of the city. York Minster is one of the largest cathedrals of its kind in Northern Europe and is the seat of the Archbishop of York. Famous for its stunning 14th and 15th century stained glass windows and stonework, the cathedral truly is an incredible display of medieval craftsmanship.
3. Castle Howard
Situated just 15 miles North East of York is the beautiful Howard Castle, a breathtaking 18th century residence set amongst 1,000 acres of scenic parkland. Inside the castle you can take in some of the buildings impressive collection of furniture, statues and paintings – some of which date back to and before 1699 when the castle was built. Castle Howard is certainly a great day trip from York as part of an extended holiday to the area.
4. The Shambles
The Shambles is actually the name of a very famous street situated in York City Centre, which has a rich and interesting historical past as one of the best preserved medieval streets Britain. Shambles is one of the most visited streets in Europe – winning the ‘Britain’s Most Picturesque Street’ award in 2010 – and is home to a variety of shops, tourist attractions and restaurants.
5. DIG
A perfect attraction for families with young children, DIG is a great interactive tourist attraction that allows youngsters and adults alike to try their hand at a bit of amateur archaeology whilst learning about the 2000 years of exciting history hidden beneath the streets of York. Visitor can quite literally grab a trowel and dig up little pieces of Roman, Medieval and Victorian history.
*The previous was a sponsored post.
