A Roman and Viking city where the history is etched into the narrow and ancient streets. Situated on the meandering banks of the River Ourse, York is one of the jewels in the crown of English tourism and a must-see destination on any tour of Britain. First established as a Roman stronghold in 71 AD, the city would take the name Jorvik 800 years later when the 'Great Heathen Army' of the Vikings sacked and occupied the city. It would remain an important military and cultural centre throughout a century of Viking occupation. During medieval times, York remained a stronghold city and a fortified defence against foreign invaders.
Our journey begins on York's City Walls, most complete example of medieval city defenses still standing in England today (find the location in Google Maps here). Originally constructed by The Romans to provide a base for the Empire's Ninth Legion, these stone fortifications provide shelter and protection for all those who lived in 'Eboracum'. That was the name the Romans gave to a town of growing military and cultural significance which would later come to be known as York. Today, the majority of the walls are accessible to the public and are free to walk upon, with restored pathways and safety railings. If time allows, walking the full circuit provides a comprehensive tour around the historic city centre and offers an insightful panorama of York's rich past.
There are few better examples of Gothic architecture in all of England than York Minster. The construction we see today was started in the 1220s and only reached completion shortly after 1470, making this a unique and impressive portfolio of architecture and design spanning 250 years. The vastness of the scale on the one hand, combined with the minuteness of the detail on the other, combine to create a masterpiece that attracts up to 700,000 visitors each year. Atop 275 steps of narrow and spralling stone, you will find The Central Tower — the highest point in all of York (it's large enough to fit the Leaning Tower of Pisa inside). Other notable attractions include The Chapter House, Undercroft, Treasury and Crypt. To get the most out of your visit, book a guided tour in advance...
The York Museum Gardens are situated on the grounds of St. Mary's Abbey, a once-powerful Benedictine abbey ruined during the dissolution of the monasteries under Henry VIII. The gardens and the museum within them are steeped in history, offering a peaceful retreat with a backdrop of hallowed antquity. The museum itself dates back to 1830 and it holds an impressive collection of artefacts that tell the story of York and its surroundings from prehistoric times to the medieval period. Highlights include the Cawood sword, the York Helmet, and extensive collections of Roman and Viking treasures. Explore the museum, the gardens or both depending on your time availability and interests. Book museum tickets here...
It is hard to imagine a more quintessentially British experience than having afternoon tea in Bettys of York. Advanced booking is essential in this treasured institution which has been a landmark on St. Helen's Square since it opened in 1936. Afternoon tea is a treasured English tradition in which a pot of tea is served as an accompaniment to an assortment of sweet and savoury treats, presented on a tiered stand. Once you have chosen your blend of tea, you will be invited to choose your preferred sandwiches, scones, pastries and cakes. Few things could be more British than an hour spent indulging in afternoon tea.
Walk along Davygate past York Information Centre & Gift Shop (a good spot to find souvenirs), before turning left onto mpson's Sq, which follows on to Church Street and then Goodramgate, where you will find Holy Trinity Church, Goodramgate — one of York's most historic and well-preserved medieval churches. It has undergone various modifications over the centuries but, even today as an active place of worship, it retains much of its original structure and charm. Nestled away from the bustling streets of York, the church and its surroundings offer a peaceful retreat. Its position, hidden behind shops and accessed through one of York's famous 'snickelways' (a narrow passageway), enhances its medieval charm and mystery.
The Shambles is one of England's most iconic streets, famous for its beautifully preserved medieval architecture and its atmospheric charm. Often cited as an inspiration for Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling, this narrow passageway offers a curious glimpse into a time long forgotten. The name "Shambles" originates from the Anglo-Saxon word "Shamel" meaning "bench" or "stall". Historically, The Shambles was lined with butcher shops, which displayed their goods on these benches outside. The meat hooks and wide windowsills from this era are still visible on some of the buildings you will see.
JORVIK Viking Centre invites you to travel back to the year 975 AD and discover the world of the Viking invaders. Over 30 years, 20 million tourists and visitors have immersed themselves in the Centre's interactive experience where you can walk the Viking streets, enter their dwellings, hear the sounds and smell the smells. Jorvik houses over 800 viking artefacts including tools, textiles, coins, and personal items which offer a unique glimpse into the daily lives of the people who lived here over a thousand years ago. Book your visit here...
Clifford's Tower was built after the Vikings had left Britain. Following the invasion by William the Conqueror, it was built in 1068 and would serve as a centre for York's defense and administration over the centuries. The tower is notable for its unusual four-lobed design, rare in England, which provides a unique appearance and structural advantage. As a work of military architecture, this design was far ahead of its time, and the unusual shaping is one of the main reasons for the tower's enduring fascination. Clifford's Tower is the site of one of the most tragic events in York's history, the massacre of its Jewish community in 1190. The Jewish residents of York, seeking protection from a mob, took refuge in the tower which was then set on fire, leading to the loss of many lives. This event is a significant part of the tower's history and is commemorated today.
If the weather is nice, take a stroll along the banks of the River Ourse to Rowntree Park. Opened in 1921, Rowntree Park was gifted to the city of York by the Rowntree family, famous in Britain for their chocolate manufacturing in the city. It was offered as a memorial to the Rowntree Company employees who lost their lives during World War I. The park spans over 30 acres, featuring extensive green lawns, mature trees and beautiful flower gardens. When you're ready for a rest, find a bench near the pond and reflect on the rich and varied history you have learned about today.
Explore the wonders of Ireland and Scotland on this remarkable 9-day tour. Immerse yourself in the rich cultures of these historic Gaelic nations as you embark on a captivating journey.
Experience all that is Ireland in this 10-day adventure. Ireland's best-loved attractions and its best-kept secrets, including the Wild Atlantic Way.
Discover the best of Ireland and Scotland with this unforgettable 14-day tour. Compare the cultures of these historic Gaelic nations during a magical fortnight.
Experience a once-in-a-lifetime 18-day adventure as you behold the most famous and captivating attractions that Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and England have to offer.
Discover the Island of Ireland, North and South with this unforgettable 14-day tour. Spend 4 days in Ulster, and 10 more in Eire.
Take in the essence of captivating Ireland as you embark on an unforgettable 8-day adventure, immersing yourself in the Emerald Isle's beauty and charm.
Experience the true essence of Ireland in under a week. Ireland's unmissable destinations and the Wild Atlantic Way in one unforgettable tour.
Live like royalty for 10 days across Ireland, staying in real Irish castles and country manors. Enjoy the finest all-inclusive tour Ireland has to offer.
An exclusive tour capped at max. 8 guests, travelling through the idyllic scenes of The Wild Atlantic Way. Including an overnight stay in an Irish castle.
Embark on a unique and intimate journey through the Celtic heartlands of Ireland and Scotland on this exclusive tour designed for a maximum of 8 guests.
Northern Ireland's natural beauty awaits on this six-day fully-inclusive tour of Ulster. Picturesque towns, untamed coastlines and friendly locals await.
Adare is a small town in Co. Limerick, known for its quaint and colourful thatched cottages. Adare is considered to be one of Ireland's most beautiful towns so stop and take in the view. Don't forget your camera today - the perfect chance to capture the essence of old Ireland.
Explore Adare Village along the Wild Atlantic Way.
Take a journey through this once troubled city. See the murals of the Loyalist Shankill Road & Nationalist Falls Road. The Troubles took their toll on the economic life of Belfast, but the past ten years of peace have returned much prosperity while the genuine friendliness of the city never left.
Originally built in 1823, Blarney Woollen Mills was mainly used for the spinning and weaving of wool. After it closed in 1973, it reopened in 1975 — as an Irish heritage shop.
The Culloden Battlefield Visitor Centre commemorates the last pitched battle fought on British soil, in April 1746. Learn more about the Jacobite intent to overthrow the House of Hanover and return the House of Stuart to the British throne.
Located within Glenveagh National Park, Glenveagh Castle was built by Captain John George Adair between 1870 and 1873. Having made his fortune through land speculation in America, Adair return to Ireland and began large amounts of land in County Donegal. The castle was built in the Scottish Baronial style and is surrounded by a garden and commands stunning views of the nearby mountains, lakes, woodlands and valleys.
About Highland Folk Museum is a museum and open-air attraction located in the Scottish Highlands. It is designed to showcase the domestic and working lives of the early highland people.
Located alongside the River Shannon in County Limerick, on King's Island. Dating back to 922, to a time when Vikings were the inhabitants of the island (Thormodr Helgason, the Viking sea-king, built the first settlement here. The castle itself was built in 1200, under the instruction of King John of England.
Located alongside the River Shannon in County Limerick, on King's Island. Dating back to 922, to a time when Vikings were the inhabitants of the island (Thormodr Helgason, the Viking sea-king, built the first settlement here. The castle itself was built in 1200, under the instruction of King John of England.
Located close to the Killarney National Park, Moriarty's is an Authentic Irish Gift Store and Restaurant. Hand crafted Irish jewellery, Waterford Crystal and classic and modern tweed fashions and furnishings are all on offer at the gift store. The restaurant is an 85 seater offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Mount Congreve Gardens. Located in Kilmeaden, County Waterford, Mount Congreve Gardens is an 18th century Georgian estate and mansion. It was designed by the same architect that created both of Waterford's cathedrals, John Roberts.
Recently recognised as being one of the top 10 gardens in the world, Mount Stewart is a rich tapestry of planting plant life and stunning walking trails. The house dates back to the 19th century, and was the Irish seat of the Vane-Tempest-Stewart family.
Located on the grounds of the expansive and idyllic Killarney National Park. Muckross House, and its 11,000-acre grounds, was donated to the Irish state in 1932.
Located on the grounds of the picturesque Muckross House and its impeccable gardens. Take a step back in time and see the Irish farming lifestyle of the 1930s and '40s. A time when the horse was responsible for much of the labour and the weather was the be all and end all in terms of production.
The Quiet Man Museum. A reproduction of the quaint thatched cottage from the John Wayne starring, John Ford directed movie of the same name. all costumes, artefacts and furnishings have been recreated in precise detail, to reflect the setting of the 1952 classic. Located in the picturesque village of Cong, County Mayo.
Experience a once-in-a-lifetime 18-day adventure as you behold the most famous and captivating attractions that Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and England have to offer.
Discover the best of Ireland and Scotland with this unforgettable 14-day tour. Compare the cultures of these historic Gaelic nations during a magical fortnight.
Discover the Island of Ireland, North and South with this unforgettable 14-day tour. Spend 4 days in Ulster, and 10 more in Eire.
Experience all that is Ireland in this 10-day adventure. Ireland's best-loved attractions and its best-kept secrets, including the Wild Atlantic Way.
Take in the essence of captivating Ireland as you embark on an unforgettable 8-day adventure, immersing yourself in the Emerald Isle's beauty and charm.
Experience the true essence of Ireland in under a week. Ireland's unmissable destinations and the Wild Atlantic Way in one unforgettable tour.
An exclusive tour capped at max. 8 guests, travelling through the idyllic scenes of The Wild Atlantic Way. Including an overnight stay in an Irish castle.
Embark on a unique and intimate journey through the Celtic heartlands of Ireland and Scotland on this exclusive tour designed for a maximum of 8 guests.
Live like royalty for 10 days across Ireland, staying in real Irish castles and country manors. Enjoy the finest all-inclusive tour Ireland has to offer.
Northern Ireland's natural beauty awaits on this six-day fully-inclusive tour of Ulster. Picturesque towns, untamed coastlines and friendly locals await.
Explore the wonders of Ireland and Scotland on this remarkable 9-day tour. Immerse yourself in the rich cultures of these historic Gaelic nations as you embark on a captivating journey.
As a local Irish company, we at My Ireland Tour are passionate about our country and our local community. We're thrilled that you're interested in visiting the place we call home. That's why we put together this definitive travel guide for anyone who wants to come to Ireland and discover this amazing place for themselves.
This is a completely free resource covering everything from top tourist attractions to the nearest yoga centre. We hope it helps!
