Out & About in York

Throughout its colourful history, York has long been considered one of the most beautiful cities of Europe and certainly one of the most significant in terms of its political, religious and cultural heritage. Once regarded as the capital of England, the Roman and Viking foundations of this magnificent city stand proudly amongst its 185,000 plus inhabitants; and whilst it may be smaller in population than its Yorkshire neighbours of Leeds, Doncaster and Sheffield, winning the 2007 award for European Tourism City of the Year is testament to its popularity. Though many tourists flock here to walk along the Roman Bar Walls, York is perhaps most noted for its most prominent building, the world famous York Minister, the largest Gothic church in England and the Mother Church of the Northern Province of the Church of England.

Shopping

There is a great contrast of old and new in York. It's easy to walk around the car-free streets simply glaring up at the stunning architecture but eager shoppers won't find this too much of a distraction, particularly if you have a passion for antiques, books and clothes. York has its fair share of gift shops but it should be noted that those in York are of a particularly fine quality. Mulberry Hall on Stonegate exhibits fine china, crystal and cookware but it is The Shambles that is a particular favourite for all - it is one of York's oldest medieval (and now most photographed) cobbled streets and is home to a number of curiosity shops. Those more interested in the latest cutting fashions will not be disappointed either for York has an array of contemporary stores and designer boutiques and markets.

Food and Drink

Whether it's fine dining, family restaurants, local pubs or a quick takeaway you're after, then York offers a variety of options in both international and traditional British cuisine. The Fossgate area of the city is noted for its gastronomic diversity with almost all eateries taking advantage of the best local suppliers that the Yorkshire countryside has to offer, and if the Yorkshire folk are noted for anything, then their love of a good wholesome meal should certainly be high on the list. It would seem almost criminal to visit the city and not experience Wackers fish and chips, followed by a quick visit to Betty's tearooms for a nice cuppa and a slice of something sweet. York's nightlife won't disappoint anyone who wants to find a nice cold beer and a good atmosphere. Plonkers Bar is worth a visit; it has been likened to the American Cheers, noted for its laid-back atmosphere and it even has its own branded merchandise. For something a little livelier then the Latin Quarter between Little Stonegate and Grape Lane has a number of bars such as Oscars and Bobolobo which are all open until late.

Arts and Entertainment

The lack of traffic in the centre of York not only means that the beautiful cobbled streets are preserved, but that there are plenty of opportunities for street performers and musicians to entertain passers by. For more formal occasions, the York Theatre Royal in St Leonard's Place attracts many of the big names in entertainment, and the Grand Opera House is a favourite for family events and mass-market entertainments. Many of the key attractions in York focus on the rich history of the city, and with Romans and Vikings having made their mark, it comes as no surprise that the York Minster, The Castle Museum and JORVIK Viking Museum continue to impress and delight. A day at the York Races, a trip to the National Rail Museum, and a boat trip along the river, are just a few things to help fill any weekend visit.

Hotels and Travel

Whilst York doesn't have its own airport, it is just 31 miles East of Leeds Bradford International Airport with regular international and domestic flights coming in and out daily. York Railway Station, in its present incarnation, was the largest railway station in the country at the time of its unveiling in 1877 - located on the East Coast Mainline it is very well connected to Scotland and London and has regular services to all of the major cities in the UK. Being just a five minute walk from the city centre, many visitors find it preferable to leave the car at home though there are plenty of places to park in respect of the fact that this is largely a car-free city. There are plenty of hotels, bed and breakfasts and hostels to choose from - The Bar Convent is a Grade I listed Georgian building situated on the oldest existing convent in England, and Marmadukes is York's newest luxury hotel - just a short walk from the Minster. Those on a budget might consider the York International Youth Hostel which is located just a short fifteen minute walk away from the city centre