York
To visit York is to step back in time. This remarkable city contains a number of well-preserved reminders of a rich history that has included Roman and Viking occupations, and a long-held place as one of England's premier cities.
Second only to London in population and prominence for much of its history, York is one of northern England's most popular destinations. The modern city has a deceptively provincial feel to it, but York's vibrant university scene and renowned chocolate factories ensure that it is much more than a heritage site for tourists.
York was established by the Romans in the 1st century AD as a military stronghold against the untamed tribes of the north. Over time the fort became a city of importance on the northernmost edge of the Roman Empire, although few Roman remains are visible today. The next invaders of northern England - the Vikings - left more tangible remains, and these form the centrepeice of the award-winning Jorvik Viking Centre. Visitors to the Centre are transported back to the sights, sounds, and smells of a reconstructed Viking village, built alongside the actual remains of a ninth century settlement.
A short walk from the Jorvik Viking Centre stands Clifford's Tower, a medieval fortress on a man-made hill that played host to one of York's darker chapters. Here, 900 years ago the Jewish population of York committed mass suicide as they were besieged by an anti-Semitic mob that had run riot throughout the town. The tower today provides stunning views of York and surrounding countryside.
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York's medieval heritage is unsurpassed - the city is still skirted by walls built nearly seven centuries ago, interrupted only by the impressive gates, where the heads of traitors were once displayed as a deterrent to locals. The Treasurer's House and Merchant Adventurers Guild have survived remarkably intact, and the narrow street of perilously leaning shops known as the Shambles gives a glimpse of what medieval life would have been like.
York's jewel in the crown is undoubtedly the magnificent Minster, the largest Gothic structure in Britain. A colossal reminder of the former power and wealth of the Church, York Minster possesses the world's largest medieval stained-glass window and numerous other treasures. Visit www.yorkminster.org for more.
Fact File - York
Getting There - York railway station is situated on the main line to northern cities from London, with numerous other services alighting here. Travel time from London is a shade under two hours. The station is a short walk to the historic centre.
Visit Great Northeastern Railways and National Express websites.
Karibuni Tours offer guided short breaks to York and the surrounding districts - check out their website for more information.
Tourist Information - The main Tourist Office is a short walk west of the Minster in Exhibition Square, and there is another information outlet at the railway station. Call 01904 554488.
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