Visit the historic city of York, England and stay in one of its fine Hotels
September 18th, 2009 by Karen Milner, under Travel and Leisure. No Comments
The city of York, England is probably the most haunted city in Europe, of not the world. It was named the most haunted city in Europe by the Ghost Research Foundation International. Seriously though, a visit to the city of York is an amazing experience, with its fine gothic architecture, amazing medieval walls, and other fine attractions, there is a wealth of things to do, see and learn about this most historic city. In this article we will list some of our favourite attractions in the city and talk about some of its history.
York Minster is one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Northern Europe alongside the cathedral of Cologne. It has an amazing history, being first built in 627 for the baptism of Edwin, King of Northumbria. The English Civil War saw the city of York besieged by the forces of Oliver Cromwell in 1644, but Thomas Fairfax prevented any further damage to the cathedral.
Some of the major attractions in York:
York Minster We have already spoken a little about this magnificent gothic buiding but did you know that it has its own police force? Thats right, after an arson attack in 1829 that destroyed parts of the east transcept and south west tower the guardians of the cathedral were put in place to protect it.
The Shambles Walking down the shambles, you can notice the raised pavement each side of the main cobbled road which form a channel through which the blood and offal from the butchers who used to ply their trade here would wash away. This street really is medieval Britain in its finest preserved form. Don’t miss a visit here if you come to the city.
Clifford’s Tower As one of England’s most important cities, York was an important base for holding and administering the north of the country. Clifford’s tower is one of two castles William the Conqueror built in the years immediately following his conquest. It is named after Roger de Clifford who was hung here after a Battle in 1322.
Jorvik Viking Museum York gets its current day name from the viking invaders that once conquered this city, calling it Yorvik. The Viking Centre is a popular visitor attraction in the UK where you can travel back in time and experience the sights, sounds and smells of what was formerly a great Viking city.
If you are looking for a hotel in York then you may wish to consider the Guy Fawkes Inn. This York townhouse is the birth place of Guy Fawkes, born in 1570 and made famous in English history for his role as ringleader of the ‘Gunpowder Plot’, the aim of which was to blow up the Houses of Parliament in London, on 5th November 1605. This is why the British celebrate ‘bonfire night’ celebrations on or around the 5th on November of each year.
Guy Fawkes Inn is in a perfect location for exploring the city of York, located right opposite York Minster. All the rooms in this character townhouse are individual in character, ranging from comfortable twin or double rooms. The restaurant provides a good menu, and make sure you try one of the ales brewed specially for the inn, including beers such as The Conspirator, and the Guy Fawkes Ale.
Karen can help you find hotels in york england at her online guide where she writes more articles about York, England and york hotels.
