Top Five Sights To See in York
Throughout history, York has been at the centre of great events that helped shape Britain. Its sights and attractions make it a big draw for both national and international tourists to learn and experience a flavour of that history. The city’s history and ability to create excellent attractions around it mean that it has something to offer even the most demanding visitor.
Holiday makers can take advantage of one of the many York Hotels that can cater for all tastes and budgets and use it as a base to explore some of the world-famous attractions.
York Minster Cathedral
One of the world’s most impressive cathedrals, York Minster’s history stretches back centuries and is easily accessible from many York hotels. Built between the 1220s and the 1470s, the cathedral displays a mastery of art and architecture. Below the current building are the foundations of the Roman site where Saxon kings were baptised. Free guided tours will illuminate the history of the cathedral, which many consider to be the heart of York.
Jorvik Viking Centre
Impressing visitors for decades with the sights, sounds and smells of Viking England, the world-famous Jorvik Centre is a must-see. The museum recently underwent a £1 million refurbishment, which was unveiled in 2010, so it has something to offer even those who have visited before. The centre is built on a celebrated archaeological dig that revealed a 1,000-year-old Viking settlement.
York Dungeon
Learn about the infamous highwayman Dick Turpin, from his crimes to his punishment deep in a cell where a hangman awaits him. Experience some of the bloodthirsty appetites of the Vikings who once dominated York. The York dungeons give tourists a chance to glimpse the darker parts of the city’s history. Tickets cost a reasonable £15.60 for adults and £11.40 for children. This entry price provides access to an actor-led experience through 200 years of gruesome history.
Clifford’s Tower
The imposing tower is almost all that remains of York Castle, which was built by the Norman king, William the Conqueror. Climbing the tower offers stunning views of old York and beyond. The tower has played a key part in many of Britain’s most important historical turning points. It has served as the Royal Mint, a prison and, most disturbingly, was where kings would display the bodies of their defeated enemies to quell any rebellions.
Rievaulx Abbey
Outside the city and set within a remote valley of the North York Moors National Park lies one of the most peaceful and idyllic remnants of England’s long history. The ruins of Rievaulx Abbey have become one of the most popular attractions in the country. In its heyday, the monastery on this site was one of the wealthiest in Britain and only came to an end during the brutal Reformation under Henry VIII. Monks who once walked the cloisters devoted themselves to spiritual matters in this wonderful location. Once you have drunk in the atmosphere, you can enjoy some refreshments and local food at the café.
Rievaulx Abbey
A stay at one of the many York hotels gives anyone the opportunity to learn the wonderful history of this important city. Follow in the footsteps of some of the most important figures in Britain’s long history and enjoy the feel of a city that has so much to offer any visitor. York is easily reached through public transport links both north and south or a drive through the rolling Yorkshire countryside. It is ideal for short city breaks but such is the wealth of attraction and sights the city has to offer that it also perfect for longer holidays.
