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York is one of the UK’s oldest towns and has an array of great things to see.

Here are 10 of the best.

1 – York Minster

Within the heart of the bustling York city centre is the well-known Anglican cathedral the York Minster. If you didn’t already know, it is one of the largest Gothic cathedrals that exists in all of Northern Europe. Thus far it is one of the only cathedrals to contain so much stained glass.

Additionally, its East Window features the biggest selection of stained glass anywhere on the globe. So, if you’re ever looking for something to do in York, why not pay a visit to the cathedral via one of the daily tours? By going on the tour, you’ll be able to climb the 275 steps of the tower, handle precious artefacts, or even explore the Crypts.

2 – Clifford’s Tower

The last standing remains of the Norman keep can be seen in the circular remains referred to as Clifford’s Tower. The building itself stands on a neatly built artificial hill. When you visit, you’ll be able to explore and learn about how the keep’s construction happened during the Norman era. However, if you’re interested in the view, you’ll be pleased to know that when you get to the top of the tower, you’ll be able to get a perfect 360-degree view of the entire city.

3 – Barley Hall

If you have a fancy for mediaeval buildings, Barley Hall is just perfect. Until not so long ago, this piece was kept hidden in plain sight with the use of modern architecture. The building’s frame was crafted from timber and the rooms illustrate the wonders of mediaeval York.

4 – York City centre

The highlight of the city centre is its cobbled lanes, the hidden alleyways, and of course the crowded streets. Hotel breaks in York city centre are the perfect place to stay while enjoying the city. The bars and shops within the area are all fashioned after either the Georgian, the Tudor, or according to the Victorian era. Whenever you’re visiting the centre, you’ll be able to relax in the boutiques or the Swinegate bars.

5 – The Shambles

Located in Yorks centre is the Shambles which is considered to be one of Yorks’s finest cobbled shopping streets. One of the finest attractions in this area is the lopsided medieval buildings. In the past, the Shambles used to be the prime butcher spot in York. However, if you visit, you’ll still be able to view the rusty hooks and ledges where the meat used to be displayed.

6 – York’s City Walls

If you’re looking for the perfect escape, why not visit the city walls. If you didn’t already know, this is one of the longest walls found in all of England. When you walk through the majestic gateways, you’ll be able to visit the bars. You’ll even be able to view artefacts such as archers’ arrow slits or even portcullis that are featured in the bars.

7 – The Yorkshire Museum

If you’re interested in learning about the deep Roman past, the Yorkshire Museum is the best place to do so. It’s engaging and consists of highly interactive exhibits. There’s also a featured dinosaur exhibit about the Northern Jurassic coastline. Additionally, you can even spend some quality time amongst the Roman remains in the museum’s garden or frolic in the St. Mary’s Abbey ruins.

8 – Mansion House

This house is home to the Lord Mayor of York. However, visitors are welcomed to view recreations of drawing rooms, dining rooms, and bedrooms from the mansion. There’s also a perfectly working kitchen for your viewing pleasure. If you’re interested in food, you can easily get a live demonstration; these are held every day in one of the most historic kitchens in all of York!

9 – York Castle Museum

If you’re looking for the rich history of the people and the city, this is the perfect place for it. When you wander into the schoolroom, the shops, or even the police station, you’ll be able to meet those that live there. This will give you the opportunity to learn about life in the Victorian era. In the Museum, you’ll even get the opportunity to learn about punishment and crimes from the prisoners who lived in the cells.

10 – Jorvik Viking centre

For a mind-blowing York tour, you definitely need to visit the Viking centre. At the centre, you’ll be able to learn about everything from the way they lived to the hardships they faced. The Viking centre also gives visitors the opportunity to interact with artefacts, and take part in the February festivals.

If you’re curious about artefacts, you’ll be pleased to learn that those found here were actually found on site. So, if you’re interested in learning about the Vikings, come on down and enjoy a cab ride through the Viking village.

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