York, England

City Gates

Main Gate

On a recent trip to England I visited London, York and Stratford-Upon-Avon. They were all beautiful, rich with history and exciting. My favorite though was York which had so much to offer in a small package.

York was founded by the Romans and declared the Roman capital of Britannia. Constantine the First died in York during a stay and his son Constantine the Great was proclaimed emperor by the troops stationed there. Later after the Romans left it was under various British kings until it was invaded by the Vikings. It was the Viking capital of Britain and got it's name Jorvik which later became York.

York is a beautiful walled in city and you can actually take steps up to the top of the wall and walk around the city. Inside the city walls it is very easy to walk everywhere and take in the history, shopping, pubs and restaurants. The York Minster is the largest Gothic cathedral in northern Europe. Also inside the walls is the Jorvik Viking experience. You go under ground where the Viking settlement was discovered. The experience is great with a ride that reminded me of Pirates of the Caribbean in Disneyland. At the end of the ride is a museum with artifacts dug up in the area. Cliffords Tower is a great place to view the city. It was part of the York Castle and dates back to William I in the 11th century. I would also suggest taking a river cruise on the Ouse. It is relaxing and a great way to view the surrounding countryside.

Clifford Tower

River Ouse

York Minster

York Minster

York has something for everyone from history to shopping to refreshments to entertainment. It is mostly confined within the walls and very easy to get around. In one day you could walk the city. there are parks, pubs and restaurants to stop and relax when you need a break.