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A holiday guide to York


Thousands of people travel to York every year to experience the vivid sights and sounds of the Jorvik Viking Centre.

The Viking settlement discovered deep below the streets of modern York harks back to when the city was known as Jorvik. But the River Ouse was already carrying visitors long before the arrival of the Vikings, and has been used as a commercial navigation since the time of the Romans.

York is perhaps most famous for its Minster. The baptism of Edwin, the pagan king of Northumbria, prompted the construction in AD627, of what is considered to be the first York Minster. However, the building that stands proudly today was not begun until 1472 – in an effort to rival the great cathedral at Canterbury. The famous Minster is a treasure house of beautiful windows, intricate carvings and precious objects.

Deep in the heart of historic York, buried beneath its very paving stones, lays the North's most chillingly famous horror attraction. The York Dungeon brings more than 2,000 years of gruesomely authentic history vividly back to life...and death. As you delve into the darkest chapters of our grim and bloody past, recreated in all its dreadful detail, remember: everything you experience really happened. A warning - in the Dungeon's dark catacombs it always pays to keep your wits about you. The 'exhibits' have an unnerving habit of coming back to life...

For a more predictable day out, visit the National Railway Museum and immerse yourself in all the railway paraphernalia that any trainspotter could wish for.

Or, make the most of Yorkshire’s wholesome fresh air and take a walk on York’s ancient city walls. Continue alongside the winding River Ouse and enjoy views of the undulating countryside. Stand on the renowned Millennium Bridge and take in your scenic surroundings. Amidst such rural tranquillity it is hard to believe that York’s bustling city centre – packed to the brim with welcoming pubs and restaurants – is only about a mile away.

Last updated: 16/07/2009