GETTING AROUND YORK
Founded by the Romans, York’s Old Town is ringed by a massive wall. That didn’t stop the Vikings from capturing it in 866 AD, though, and you’ll find traces of its ancient history all over the city. Less than a mile across in any direction, this wonderfully preserved medieval town is one of the more fun places to wander. It’s the perfect spot to wrap up our England: Hiking Coast to Coast tour.
THINGS TO DO IN YORK
* YORK TRAIN STATION
1. THE SHAMBLES
York’s most famous street, it’s lined with timber-framed buildings with barely a right angle to be found. Although touristy shops abound, you can’t visit York without taking a walk here.
2. HISTORIC HOUSE MUSEUMS
Several impressive ones from various time periods offer architectural and history tours. 2a – the medieval Barley Hall; 2b – the medieval Merchant Adventurers Hall; 2c – the Georgian Fairfax House; 2d – the Georgian York Mansion House; 2e – Tudor-period Treasurer’s House, which is supposedly haunted.
3. CITY GATE EXPERIENCES
At two of the major gates through the wall, you can find historical, interactive experiences. Monk Bar offers an exhibit on King Richard III, while Micklegate Bar, on the other side of town offers one on Tudor King Henry VII who defeated Richard to win the crown.
4. YORK MINSTER
Massive Gothic cathedral with vast stained glass windows, tower tours, and Roman ruins in the basement.
5. YORKSHIRE MUSEUM
Five galleries showcasing archaeological treasures and rotating exhibits relevant to Yorkshire.
6. CLIFFORD’S TOWER
The only remnant of William the Conqueror’s York Castle. On a clear day you can see as far as the North York Moors!
7. WALL WALK
With access points at Micklebar and near the York War Memorial, you can walk all around the town on the wall, viewing the Old Town from above.
8. COLD WAR BUNKER
Designed as a center to monitor fallout in case of a nuclear attack until the 1990s, the bunker is now open to visitors by guided tours only.
9. YORKSHIRE AIR MUSEUM
A former World War II airfield used by Allied bomber crews, the complex now offers exhibits on aviation history and is home to a fascinating collection of sixty historic aircraft.
For a hotel recommendation, please see the Pre- & Post-Tour section of your Trip Planner.
Peruse our European hiking tours to begin plotting your next adventure.
