York
To visit York is to step back in time. This
remarkable city contains a number of well-preserved
reminders of a rich history that has included
Roman and Viking occupations, and a long-held place
as one of England's premier cities.
Second only to London in population and prominence
for much of its history, York is one of northern
England's most popular destinations. The modern city
has a deceptively provincial feel to it, but York's
vibrant university scene and renowned chocolate
factories ensure that it is much more than a heritage
site for tourists.
York was established by the Romans in the
1st century AD as a military stronghold against
the untamed tribes of the north. Over time the
fort became a city of importance on the northernmost
edge of the Roman Empire, although few Roman remains
are visible today. The next invaders of northern England
- the Vikings - left more tangible remains,
and these form the centrepeice of the award-winning
Jorvik Viking Centre. Visitors to the Centre are transported
back to the sights, sounds, and smells of a reconstructed
Viking village, built alongside the actual remains
of a ninth century settlement.
A short walk from the Jorvik Viking Centre stands
Clifford's Tower, a medieval fortress on a man-made
hill that played host to one of York's darker chapters.
Here, 900 years ago the Jewish population of York
committed mass suicide as they were besieged by an
anti-Semitic mob that had run riot throughout
the town. The tower today provides stunning views
of York and surrounding countryside.
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York's medieval heritage is unsurpassed -
the city is still skirted by walls built nearly seven
centuries ago, interrupted only by the impressive
gates, where the heads of traitors were once displayed
as a deterrent to locals. The Treasurer's House and
Merchant Adventurers Guild have survived remarkably
intact, and the narrow street of perilously leaning
shops known as the Shambles gives a glimpse
of what medieval life would have been like.
York's jewel in the crown is undoubtedly the magnificent
Minster, the largest Gothic structure in Britain.
A colossal reminder of the former power and wealth
of the Church, York Minster possesses the world's
largest medieval stained-glass window and numerous
other treasures. Visit www.yorkminster.org
for more.
Fact File - York
Getting There - York railway station is situated
on the main line to northern cities from London, with
numerous other services alighting here. Travel time
from London is a shade under two hours. The station
is a short walk to the historic centre.
Visit Great
Northeastern Railways and National
Express websites.
Karibuni Tours offer guided short breaks to
York and the surrounding districts - check out their
website
for more information.
Tourist Information - The main Tourist Office
is a short walk west of the Minster in Exhibition
Square, and there is another information outlet at
the railway station. Call 01904 554488.
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