Founded by the Romans in 71 A.D., the ancient city of York is best-known today as an ecclesiastical capital of the Church of England. Here are five interesting places to visit in York that will impress you, and educate you about England’s rich history.
York Minster
Otherwise known as the Heart of Yorkshire, York Minster is the stunning medieval cathedral that dominates the city’s skyline. One of the largest of its kind in Northern Europe, its exquisitely hand-crafted stone and formidable stained glass has looked down on York’s inhabitants and visitors for over 1,000 years.
The City Walls
York has the longest intact city walls of any town in England. A stroll along the stone walls of the city-center affords a comprehensive view of the town’s array of shops, churches, and historic houses.
Jorvik Viking Centre
The Jorvik Viking Centre is a must-see for anyone who wants to experience what the city might have felt like in the age of the Vikings. Derived from the Viking name for the city of York (Jorvik), this museum offers a life-like tour of its living history.
Clifford’s Tower
Clifford’s Tower, otherwise known as York Castle, is situated atop the remains of a Norman mot-and-baily castle structure and overlooks the town-center. It has served as a castle, a law court, and a prison. Originally built by William the Conqueror to dominate the Viking town of Jorvik, in more recent history the castle was used as a prison up until 1929.
York Castle Museum
Leading the visitor through centuries of the English way of life, the museum offers exhibitions on Victorian toys, the cells of the old debtor’s prison and the music and fashions of the swinging 60s. This will certainly complete your tour of some of the most iconic sights that the city of York has offered to her countless visitors over the centuries.