When King George VI declared that ‘The history of York is the history of England’, this was not an exaggeration. Eboracum; Eoforwic; Jorvik: names given to York by, respectively, Romans, Saxons and Vikings, all of whom have played a part in shaping the history and heritage of this enchanting city. York has played a prominent role in British history for over 2,000 years, from being the centre of trade in the Middle Ages to the social capital of the north in Georgian times.
Still encircled by ancient walls, the city thrives on its preservation of the past, with large areas, especially around York Minster, retaining many of those quintessential historical traits, such as quaint cobblestone streets and higgledy-piggledy houses.
Coupled with such quaintness is the downright quirky. Only in York could it be legal to shoot a Scotsman with a bow and arrow should one be spotted on the city walls after dark. Only in York are visitors likely to come across strange-sounding street names like Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma Gate and Mad Alice Lane.
In this city, supposedly the most haunted in Europe, snickleways (historic narrow passages) crisscross like secret passages. Eccentric and hearty Yorkshire cuisine is prevalent, with fat rascals and Yorkshire puddings being ubiquitous menu items.
Yet those visiting York are as likely to unearth a wealth of modern treasures, such as fashionable boutiques and first-rate restaurants, as they are remnants of times past. Jostling with the hordes of old-fashioned pubs are chic wine bars and other trendy watering holes.
Tourists and locals happily mingle with a large student population. Cultural delights and a vibrant, forward-thinking arts scene dwell next to more traditional museums and galleries. Such exceptional variety means that it is unlikely that visitors should tire of York itself but, should this happen, North Yorkshire offers a host of historical English villages, plus two national parks on York’s doorstep.
Read the full York guide
