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There are few cities in the North of England, or indeed the whole of Britain, that have the magical beauty of York. Enjoy outstanding architecture and a history that spans from early Roman times, combined with bustling shopping streets. There is so much to do and see in and around York. Almost completely medieval, York has many ancient timbered houses and narrow winding streets and the whole city has an atmosphere of history. In the fourth century it was a strategic center for the Romans and at that early date was a recognized seat of learning. Although the industrial revolution has almost entirely bypassed York, it is today a flourishing city with road and rail links spreading to all parts of Yorkshire.
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York is frequently called the 'City of Churches', for there are no fewer than 17 pre-Reformation churches within the city boundaries. However, this is a mere handful when compared with the Middle Ages, when York boasted 50 parish churches, two large abbeys and several smaller religious houses. The spirit of medieval York lingers on perhaps most of all in the ancient streets where the upper storeys of the houses lean precariously towards each other across the roadway. The names are fascinating - Stonegate, Goodramgate, Whip-ma-Whop-ma-Gate, and Shambles, the old butchers quarter. The four great Bars or gates of the City, Micklegate, Bootham, Monk, and Walmgate Bars still command the main roads and are a remainder of grimmer days when the strength of the city lay in its walls. Today these streets contain a fascinating variety of shops, among which can be found some of the leading antique furniture, jewelry and silver specialists of the North of England. Although very much aware of its long and fascinating history, York is a thriving city with excellent facilities for entertainment and sport. It is perhaps above all a city which to wander and make one's own discoveries.
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