York is truly one of the most historic cities of the world, steeped in two thousand years of history. Much of York's past has been well-preserved and is fascinating to explore. In 2007 the city won the European Tourism City of the Year award. Every year York is visited by thousands of tourists from around the world. The reason is simple: there is just so much to see and do in York.

The jewel in the crown is York Minster, the oldest Gothic Cathedral in Northern Europe. The city is home to the National Railway Museum (free admission) with exhibits from Stephenson’s Rocket to the Japanese Bullet Train.

Other museums include the Yorkshire Museum, with some of Europe’s greatest Roman, Viking and medieval treasures and the Castle Museum, which has period rooms and a real life Victorian street scene. There are impressive former residences, including the Treasurer’s House, Fairfax House and the Mansion House (still used by the Lord Mayor).

Visit the Yorvik Centre and get a realistic feel for how life was in Viking times. Take a trip on the River Ouse - during the day, see the Bishops Palace - during the evening, enjoy a candle-lit dinner or jazz band.

Traditionally, the city gates are known as ‘bars’ and streets as ‘gates’. A walk along the city walls is a must. The bars are particularly interesting, some of which house their own museum.

Recently, the Chairman of the British Walking Federation declared York the most walker-friendly city in the country. The medieval centre is a maze of snickleways and quaint streets such as the Shambles. Take a guided tour, maybe trying some of the lesser-known routes: the Historic Toilet Walk, Bloody Execution or Graveyard, Coffin and Plague tours. Or join one of the ghost tours.

The city centre is vibrant both day and night. It offers excellent shopping, top class tea rooms and trendy bars. During the evening the city comes alive again, with countless restaurants, cinemas, theatres and clubs.

And There's More…