unearth the mystery of York

With its Roman, Saxon and Viking past, York remains one of the most historic cities in the British Isles. Yet, it has changed with the times and is now the perfect destination whether you are travelling alone or with kids in tow.

Imagine walking through narrow, cobbled streets steeped in history, down the winding Tudor lane where Peeping Tom earned his moniker when he peered out at Lady Godiva as she passed by. Then picture yourself descending deep into the bowels of the earth and coming face to face with an imposing Viking. Sounds unlikely? Not if you’re in York!

One of the most fascinating cities in England and the erstwhile capital of the North, York is a great destination for any visitor to Britain. A compact, easily navigable city, most of its attractions can be covered in a day. Once ruled by invading Vikings, York is now home to a peace-loving community, with friendly, helpful residents and a range of entertainment options for the entire family.

Ticket to Ride

Getting there is no trouble either. We took an early train from London’s King’s Cross Station, which brought us conveniently and comfortably into the old city. York is also easily accessible by road and the drive through the picturesque Yorkshire countryside is well worth it.

Magnificent Minster

Number 1 on our list of must-see places was the stunning York Minster. Having taken nearly 250 years to build, it is one of the most imposing Cathedrals in England. Climb the 275 steps to the top of the Central Tower to savour breathtaking views of the city and surrounding countryside. We were awe-struck by the 128 stained glass windows, dating back to the 14th and 15th centuries, as well as the detailed carvings in the Chapter House and the overall serenity and grandeur of the largest medieval structure in the UK.

Legends & Lore

The city was known as ‘Eboracum’ under the Romans, but it was the Vikings who renamed it ‘York’, derived from their ‘Jorvik’, and many of York’s street names end in ‘gate’, the Vikings’ word for street. One of the most delightful is Stonegate, which showcases the magnificent Georgian and medieval architecture that has made the city so famous. Incidentally, if you would like a little pampering on your holiday, Stonegate is the right place—the Alquimia Spa (open through the week, except Sundays) offers relaxing massages, facials and various other treatments.

At the Jorvik Viking Centre, you can embark on a fascinating journey into the past, courtesy a painstakingly reconstructed Viking city of yore. On this very site, far below the pavements of modern York, a team of archaeologists uncovered what Viking life was really like. We loved the sounds and smells and gazed in amazement as our little time-car trundled through the ‘city under the city’.

Can’t Miss This!

You can’t come to York and not walk through the Shambles! A stone’s throw from the Minster, the Shambles was the mainstay of the ancient city. In the old days, residents of the houses in this narrow street used to dispose of their waste in runnels in the streets. Now, the Shambles are full of shops selling everything you could possibly want, including heaps of lovely souvenirs and gifts to take back from your journey to this wonderful place. And if you’re in the mood for something to eat, Betty’s Café is where you should head. Tucked away among the shops in the Shambles, this quaint eatery is perfect if it’s authentic English fare you desire. We went just in time for ‘high tea’, a true British tradition, and were served freshly baked scones, followed by delicious tea and fruit concoctions. Culturally rich eastern India is famous for its temples and religious structures, and it is these that influenced the various poses and graceful movements adopted by dancers of the classical Odissi. The main theme of this devotional dance is the infinite love of the Hindu deities, Radha and Krishna.

Another classical dance that originated in the temples of North-east India is Manipuri, which combines light-footedness, delicate movements, lyrical music and devotional grace. This form was made famous by the revered Bengali poet Tagore. Subtle facial expressions and agility characterise this style.

Dating from the time of Lord Shiva, Bharatanatyam is a famous dance of the South, specifically from Tamil Nadu. There are three aspects to this dance form – Nritta (rhythmic, aesthetic movements), Nritya (movements emphasizing expressions) and Natya (drama in dance). The performance begins with invoking God, and consists of a combination of notes and lyrics that make it as profound as poetry.

Major Attractions

Wish you could turn back time? At Barley Hall, you can! Located in Coffee Yard, a stone’s throw from the Minster, it is a magnificent restoration of a forgotten 15th century town hall. Once the home of the Mayor of York, Barley Hall now lets you put your finger on the pulse of medieval York. Being an interactive exhibition, you can even try on some traditional garments here! Great fun for kids and adults alike!

Although we didn’t make the trek up to Clifford’s Tower, it is said that the views of York and the surrounding countryside from its summit are absolutely breathtaking. Originally erected by William the Conqueror, the Tower was later rebuilt by Henry III in the 13th century and is now a well-preserved English Heritage monument.

If you want to discover more about York, visit Mansion House, the official residence of the city’s Lord Mayor. Built between 1725 and 1730 it contains complete living quarters, as well as an elegant dining room and a splendid stateroom.

Fun for the entire family

If you’re travelling with kids, the largest railway museum in the world, York’s National Railway Museum (free entry for children) will keep them entertained for hours. The story of the locomotive is magically brought to life with detailed exhibits and child-friendly displays.

Archaeology enthusiasts can visit excavations conducted by the York Archaeological Trust (website: www.yorkarchaeology.co.uk/yordig). Over the last few years, various teams have uncovered the foundations of a Roman tower, a medieval hospital, Victorian antiques and even an air raid shelter!

Whatever interests you - be it architecture, culture or shopping - you can be sure to find it all in York, this captivating medieval English city.