If you’re looking for a weekend getaway and it’s not too far from you, York is the perfect place to unwind. I’ve been luckily enough to have visited York quite a few times now, but it’s always been for the Christmas market, never to properly explore what the city has to offer. This time was a bit different. York is a city in North Yorkshire (duh, imagine it being called York and it being somewhere like Plymouth). With Roman origins, it is no surprise that York is full of historic buildings and structures. One of the reasons worth visiting alone. The streets are picturesque, not to mention the famous Shambles which looks like Diagon Alley from Harry Potter. For those who don’t know the Shambles is a cobbled street lined with little shops and feels like you’re stepping back in time. How can I also not talk about the iconic York Minster with its Gothic architecture and featuring medieval stained glass. In person, it is one of the most impressive buildings I’ve seen to date, and I can only imagine it’s the same inside.
Apart from York Minster and it being one of the largest cathedrals in Northern Europe, there are lots of other key historical landmarks to visit as well, and if there had been more time, I would have loved to visit them. Founded in AD 71, York was a significant Roman city. The remains of the Roman walls and baths are still visible today, showcasing its importance as a military center. In the 9th century, York became a major Viking settlement known as Jorvik. The Jorvik Viking Centre offers insights into this era, including reconstruction of Viking life. The City Walls trail was one thing that was a must on the list of things to do. Built in the 13th century, they are some of the best preserved walls in England and definitely a must to do should you visit. Moving on to the English Civil War, York played a significant role during the war in the 17th century, serving as a Royalist stronghold. The Siege of York in 1644 was a pivotal event that shaped the city’s future. Lastly, you have the Railway Revolution, where the museum today celebrates the heritage.
As previously mentioned, the York City walls route was top of the list of things to do, which was meant to take around 2 hours but somehow took 3?! I know I only have little legs (not my words), but that’s a joke. Anyways, I’m not here to talk about how long it took me to walk the walls because you probably could have walked them yourself by the time I get to what I wanted to talk about. The York City walls are a testament to the city’s rich history, dating back to Roman times when they were originally constructed to protect the settlement of Eboracum. Over the centuries, these walls have been expanded and fortified, particularly during the medieval period, transforming them into a formidable defence system. Today, they stand as the longest intact medieval town walls in England. One thing I will say, though, is that on parts of the route, there is no barrier to stop you from falling from the walls like Humpty Dumpty. It’s worth the risk, though, as you get the stunning views of York’s architecture and landscape.
As well as exploring the many historic sites of York, there are also many eateries for you to try, including bakeries, little coffee shops, and cute independent restaurants as well as your usual chains. The first place I saw recommended was The Cosy Club, which is a chain. However, it was definitely worth a visit as it was well… cosy. I honestly would say it is one of the best breakfast I’ve had, and the décor inside is exquisite. In the evening I booked Bills for something to try as I’ve had breakfast there before but not dinner and the food was divine. The banoffee sundae was a highlight, and it was one of those places where time flew by because you were enjoying your time so much. Lastly, before it was time to set off home, the time had come to try the famous yorkshire pudding wrap, with many different varieties of meats on offer, as well as a vegetarian option. This was delicious! I definitely want to come back here and try some of the independent businesses as looking in the windows of the coffee shops and bakeries. There were some rather lovely looking cakes!
York has many other reasons to visit the first being their Jorvik Viking Festival. This festival takes place in February and includes reenactments, talks, and family-friendly activities celebrating York’s Viking heritage. Next up, we have the literature festival. Held in March, this event brings together authors, poets, and readers for discussions, readings, and workshops. If you fancy something a bit different, there is a week long festival in June called York Festival of Ideas. This features talks, workshops, and performances covering a wide range of topics. Fancy your chances at winning some money? York Racecourse hosts several horse racing events throughout the summer. Moving on to September, you have the York Food and Drink Festival. This event showcases local produce and culinary talent with tastings and cooking demonstrations. Last but not least, we have the Christmas market, which runs from November through most of December, which I have been to many times and is worth a trip!
So have I sold York to you yet? Yes, I hear you say…. great, well, I’ll slide into Alan Sugar’s Dms and ask if he just wants to skip the next series of The Apprentice and be my business partner. My tips for York are I would try to park in Monk Bar car park as it’s one of the cheapest right near the city center. Another tip is if you are planning on eating at a restaurant, then I would definitely advise you to book. I’m so glad I did this because despite how many places there are to eat, everywhere is so busy! This one is a given, but I strongly advise to pack trainers, so if you’re thinking crocs, then I strongly suggest you burn them. I’m just kidding. I still don’t understand how they are classed as fashion, though.. I would also get to York Minster early before the crowds roll in, or there’s always the option of visiting at night, which you can equally get some great pictures. York has a great atmosphere though, and I don’t usually like busy places, but everyone was so friendly, and I can’t wait to return one day.
If you’ve been to York before, what were your highlights, and what would you recommend doing whilst you’re there?
Amy x
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