Known as the city where the streets are gates, the gates are bars and the bars are pubs, York was a major political and economic centre during the time of the Romans and Vikings. It is a wonderfully historic city in North Yorkshire, England, so if you fancy a quick trip here, prepare yourself for a whole lot of history!
Surrounded by Roman walls and filled with medieval houses, there are many historic sights to see that are centuries old, from the Tudor street of the Shambles, to Clifford’s tower, to the final remnants of York Castle. Museums are not in short supply in York. The Jorvik Centre houses all things Viking, while the Yorkshire Museum displays local Roman findings and is situated in the beautiful Museum Gardens – which also holds the ruins of Saint Mary’s Abbey. These gardens are such a lovely place to sit with a picnic in the spring sun.
York has its very own one-street-wonder, Bishopthorpe Road. Known to locals (and the internet) as ‘Bishy Road’, it is an award-winning mini high street only 15 minutes from the city centre, full of unique cafes, bunting and fairy lights. The star of this show has to be the cafe on the corner, The Pig and Pastry which, rather fittingly, has award-winning bacon sandwiches – just what you need for a delicious brunch.
For those who want to splash out, head to Betty’s for their legendary afternoon tea: perfect for a refreshing break after seeing the sights and the odd spot of shopping. If you are on a budget, there are some cheap and brilliant places to go, such as Oscars (it has massive portions). But, I have to say, nothing beats sitting by the river, ice-cream in hand, and watching the sun set with friends.
After the sun has set, you might be looking for a place to have a couple of drinks before heading back to your hostel/hotel/home. Evil Eye has fancy cocktails and cushy four-poster beds to perch on as you sip your drink and soak up the Yorkshire accents.
York is around two and a half hours from Edinburgh, but it is more than worth the journey.
image: Aleviva-Medien
