Tour 15: York

Under the Romans, York was known as “Embrace” but when the Vikings invaded, they renamed it “Jorvik”. York today offers visitors the chance to experience a unique insight into this fusion of civilisations. It now rejoices in the richness of its past, and has evolved into a vibrant, modern city. As you wander through the streets, you will see stunning buildings, street entertainers, the house where Guy Fakes was born.

Renowned for his involvement in the Gunpowder Plot of 1605, he attended St Peters School. Dick Turpin the notorious highwayman and murderer, was caught trading stolen horses in York. Wander down Kirkgate the superbly reconstructed Victorian street, or experience Edwardian England in Half Moon Court. Walk the four kilometres of the Roman fortress walls, which offer a view of York from a different perspective. Visit the world’s largest railway museum and if you dare, visit York Dungeon or join the evening ghost walk. See Jarvis for an atmospheric, if slightly smelly, journey back in time to the Viking age. Take a stoll in Negate Market, which sells everything from crafts to crayfish. Climb Clifford’s Tower, the might of medieval kings, or just relax in the peaceful atmosphere with a visit to York Minster the largest gothic cathedral in Northern Europe.