York has long been known as one of the best places to live in the UK. There is a lot of history in this quaint little town that’s been around since Roman times, and there’s surprisingly plenty to do for visitors. Now that international travel is finally starting to open back up in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, you may be considering where you want to go for your next trip. If you haven’t been to York yet, there are a lot of reasons that it should drift up toward the top of your must-see-places.
From historical sites to buzzing bars and delicious restaurants, there’s no shortage of activities in York no matter who you are or what your interests are.
Walk Along the City Walls
The York city walls are one of the many presents that the Romans left behind for them. In fact, these walls are the longest fortification walls in the whole country. Walking them in their entirety can take up a few hours at least. Along the walls, you’ll also note a variety of plaques detailing different events and figures. Taking the time to read, appreciate, and absorb the information on the plaques can easily add some time to this venture.
There’s more than one way to enjoy the city walls, too. You can either walk them yourself, or you can recruit a tour-guide to facilitate the journey. By booking a private tour, you’ll guarantee that no-strangers get added into your walk-along, and you’ll get the special insights from a trained tour-guide.
There is a lot of history in these walls and they’re well worth the walk.
Make the Climb to Clifford’s Tower
This is the ruined Norman Keep at the center of York Castle. York has a lot of history, this specific spot is no different. In 1322 Roger de Clifford was hanged for treason at this site. However, today, it mostly offers gorgeous panoramic views of the York Minster and the City Center. These views are truly unmatched anywhere else in the city.
In fact, the view is so spectacular at Clifford’s Tower that, on a clear day, you can see all the way to the North York Moors National Park. The views at Clifford’s Tower speak for themselves and make the trip to York more than worthwhile.
Take a Stroll Down Shambles
Spending a few minutes strolling down shambles and you’ll feel absolutely transported into tranquility. Don’t let the peaceful atmosphere fool you though. Keep in mind how historic York is. This part of York actually shares its name with the old-english word for slaughterhouse. This is even evident in the design of the buildings that populate this street.
The hooks on the frontside of the buildings were designed to hang meat. Even the way the lumber was constructed provided overhangs that were supposed to keep hanging meat from going rancid in the sun.
Cruising the Ouse
The Ouse is the river that cuts a path straight through York, and it offers absolutely splendid views. There are plenty of walking-paths available to locals and tourists alike. These paths are orchestrated so that when you walk them you can catch other gorgeous sites as well, like Clifford’s Tower, for example.
The gorgeous river-walks are great for after lunch or after dinner, and can make for an extremely romantic setting. Walking isn’t your only option when it comes to exploring the Ouse, either. There are also a series of regular boat tours that you can book. Sunset tours on the Ouse are something you must indulge in if you’re going to visit York. The picturesque river and the setting sun make for a stunning view you’ll hold onto for the rest of your life. Plus, the boat comes with a fully-stocked-bar, so you can enjoy the sunset with a drink.
Book a Brewery Tour
Independent brewing has recently become an extremely popular pastime for individuals. So much so that it’s given way to a whole new market in the space of independent brewers. If you’re a fan of trying out the local beer when you travel, a York brewery tour should definitely make it onto your agenda. You surely won’t regret it, and may even want to take some York beer home with you.
Wrapping up on Things to do in York
York is a very historic city with a lot of different sites to see. That being said, it’s also extremely small, and you can walk from one side of the city to the other in about a half-an-hour. This makes a great final activity, and you can even take advantage of luggage storage in York so you don’t have to drag your suitcases along with you on your walk before hitting the airport.
