Immersed in Roman and Jorvik heritage sites, York is surrounded by medieval architecture. Whether you are visiting with for the day or for a short break, make sure to enjoy The Shambles, a maze of old cobbled streets and buildings taking you back in time.
The Romans founded the city of York. They invaded Yorkshire in 71 CE and built a fort between the rivers Ouse and Foss. York was then invaded by the Vikings. The Vikings who settled in York were mainly a peaceful despite their well-known bloody campaigns. They farmed the land and were great craftsmen, traders, artists, engineers and ship builders. Over the one hundred years that York was under Viking rule the city prospered greatly. By the mid 2nd century a small town grew up by the fort. Craftsmen and merchants came to live there because the soldiers in the fort provided a market for their goods and ships could sail up the River Ouse. Its position made it an ideal place for trade and so craftsmen came to live there. They probably started weekly markets and goods such as pottery were brought by ship from Europe. York was also a busy manufacturing center. Wool was woven and leather was tanned in the city. Fast forward a few centuries and York was heavily damaged during World War Two but recovered and tourism became a flourishing industry in York. The National Railway Museum opened in 1975. The Jorvik Viking Centre opened in 1984.
Most of York’s attractions are exceptionally historic with a nod to the heritage of the city. The aforementioned Jorvik Viking Centre is visited by many every year who are eager to learn about the cities past. The Natioal Railway Museum and York Chocolate Story also provide a glimpse into the industries of the cities more recent past. Many tourists flock to the Shambles. This historic old street is lined with many shops that have been in the same place for centuries. At the top of the Shambles is the York Minster which is a phenomenal piece of architecture considering it was built in 1220! Looking for live music, plays and even snooker? Head down to York’s premier venue, the Barbican to find all your needs.
Parking with Q-Park in York provides a safe and secure facility for customers to leave their car in as they explore York from a central location.