York is perhaps one of the prettiest cities of the UK, boasting charming architecture, medieval city walls and cute cobbled streets, it really is quintessentially British. Activities are plentiful and the city is a great destination for families.
York Minster
York’s famous Cathedral is York Minster spans back to Roman times and is one of the largest of its kind in Europe, the Cathedral features fascinating underground chambers and a brilliant viewing tower which leads you to the highest point in the city.
It is also renowned for its stunning stained glass windows and Gothic sculptures which is probably why it’s been voted as one of the best attractions in the UK.
York Minster, England, UK
City of York Walls
The city is encapsulated by 3.4 kilometres of medieval walls and they are in beautiful condition. A walk takes around 2 hours to complete and provides great insight into the history of the Roman-then- Viking owned city. These walls are a must-see in York and are a great, priceless adventure for families who want to tread the historic walkway.
York city walls
Fountains Abbey
Fountains Abbey was founded by monks just under a thousand years ago then closed by King Henry V111, now the ruins are all that remain. Along with the remains, there lies Fountains Mill, Hall and a church.
Studley Royal boasts a Deer Park which homes to over 500 species of deer and rare trees and also a spectacular Water Garden which was created by politician John Aislabie to impress visitors in the Georgian era. Fountain Abbey can be found around 30 miles away of York.
Fountains Abbey
Take a Bike
Seeing as York is hosting the 2014 Tour de France, it’s fitting to make a change from walking to discover the city on bike. Full of off-road cycle paths and plenty of bike hire shops some with guided tours, York is the perfect place to take a ride.
Cycle routes vary along the Millennium Bridge, Askham Nature Reserve, York City Centre and the River Ouse and are welcome to all ages and abilities. Get fit, help the environment and get ready for summer.
Millennium Bridge
Yorkshire Museum & Gardens
There are a handful of museums in York but if you’re only visiting 1 then it must be this one. A stunning Georgian building which recently had a 2 million pound makeover, it hosts fascinating archaeological finds, exhibitions of York’s Roman history and even dinosaurs.
They also hold many events around the clock, from astronomy to craft workshops and timeouts for pre-schoolers- perfect for a family day out. The 10-acre gardens stretch back to 1830 when they were planted and completely surround the museum with stunning botanics.
Ruins in the Yorkshire Museum Gardens
