Free Museums in Portington

"The UK’s National Railway Museum in York is one of the world’s largest and free to enter!. A mecca for railway enthusiasts and a superb family attraction, the museum doesn’t just trace the history of Britain’s railways from the early 19th century through to the present, it also digs deep into the international history of rail. Historic British steam locomotives on display in the Great Hall include the Mallard and an exact replica of Stephenson’s Rocket (from which all locomotives can trace their roots)."

"For fun-filled free attractions you’re on the right track with the National Railway Museum. This is the largest railway museum in the world and is open year round. There are lots of free activities as well as a railroad-themed play area to keep kids entertained so it is a good choice for the whole family."

"As we detailed above the National Railway is a free display of Rail history for both England and the world. * While it is a free exhibition you are encouraged to make a donation towards the upkeep of the museum"

"Interactive multimedia exhibits aimed at bringing history to life often achieve exactly the opposite, but the much-hyped Jorvik manages to pull it off with aplomb. It's a smells-and-all reconstruction of the Viking settlement unearthed here during excavations in the late 1970s, experienced via a 'time-car' monorail that transports you through 9th-century Jorvik (the Viking name for York). You can reduce time waiting in line by booking timed-entry tickets online; there is almost always a queue to get in."

"One of the UK’s most popular attractions, Jorvik Viking Centre in York is a favourite with families. At the heart of the museum is an amazing archeological discovery – The Coppergate Dig. Excavations under an old sweet factory between 1979 and 1981 unearthed numerous Viking artefacts and the remains of 10th century Viking buildings preserved within particularly spongy earth."

"Offering a fascinating look into the everyday life of the English over the ages is the superb York Castle Museum. Built on the same site where the original York Castle once stood, the museum is in the south of the city center and has countless artifacts and exhibits to explore. While the museum was founded in 1938, its colossal collection is housed in various buildings that used to serve as a prison."

"It is housed in 18th century prison buildings, built over the original Norman castle. The diverse collection of exhibits includes cells from the original prison, a recreated Victorian street (Kirkgate) and a children's toy collection. There's also a homage to the Sixties with exhibits covering counterculture, fashion, music, sport, and women's liberation."

"York Castle Museum is a museum located in York, North Yorkshire, England, on the site of York Castle, which was originally built by William the Conqueror in 1068."

"Just a minute or two walk from the hotel (turn left out of our front door and walk until you get to King’s Square). Hear about York’s chocolate history, get lots of samples to try, and make a chocolate lolly to take home – really good fun for adults and children. VISIT THEIR WEBSITE >>"

"Enjoy chocolate samples, learn how its made and explore three floors of interactive exploration. Book Tickets: York’s Chocolate Story >>>"

"Fairfax House is one of the finest 18th century houses in the North of England. It was designed by John Carr of York, and has the best 18th century rococo decoration. Fairfax House is owned by York Civic Trust who have restored the house to its former glory."

"This restored medieval townhouse, tucked down an alleyway, includes a permanent exhibition of life in the times of Henry VIII. It was once the home of York’s Lord Mayor. The centrepiece is a double-height banquet..."

"Things to Do, Attractions"

"The Georgian-style Mansion House in York is the home of the city's Lord Mayors during their term in office. This is the earliest purpose-built house of this sort still in use – it predates the Mansion House in London by at least 20 years. The foundation stone for the building was laid in 1725, and it was completed seven years later, in 1732."

"Located in the center of the city, the Mansion House is the official residence of the Lord Mayor of York. But along with being a home, this historic house is popular with visitors. The Mansion House exhibits an impressive collection of paintings, silver and furniture."

"Part of the Jorvik group, this attraction is an introduction to archaeology for kids. It’s suitable for all ages. My toddler enjoyed the under 5’s play area on the second floor whilst my 5 year old did some stained glass painting."

"Things to Do, Attractions"

"Located between Leeds and Wetherby, Bramham Park is the site of the iconic Leeds Festival which occurs every August bank holiday weekend. If you don’t hold tickets to the festival, visit during the rest of the year to explore the 18th Century manor house and its sprawling grounds."

"West Park is yet another addition to the list that has recently received refurbishment!. Boasting a new 7.24-metre medieval-inspired activity tower, various sized slides, spinning bowls, and a rope climb, the play area is now suitable for both toddlers and older children. The bright colouring of the apparatus separates this play area from the rest, there’s also a popular skatepark, animal aviary, and an outdoor gym that will open once lockdown lifts again."

"A post shared by Kristal Ireland (@kristalsmile) on Dec 24, 2016 at 5:13am PST. Established in 1998, this patisserie and chocolaterie has carved itself a well-deserved reputation across Yorkshire. A chocolate sweet lover’s heaven, you’ll find a vast selection of hand crafted chocolates, dainty pastries and elegant French patisseries at the counter, along with freshly baked artisan breads."

"An excellent vegetarian cafe, Goji is one of the city’s top-rated places to enjoy a vegan dish. This welcoming cafe is devoted to giving you healthy and sumptuous food, including vegan diets too. Having been providing the city with good food for a while now, this restaurant has a beautiful interior decor and a great atmosphere."

"Offering take away or eat in service, Goji’s is a repeatedly tried and tested favourite of mine. As an added benefit you will be supporting a local York company with your custom. I highly recommend the Goji hot dog and the fruit crumble with oat cream."

"Goji Cafe’s food is vegetarian, wholesome, nutritious and lovingly prepared from start to finish with many vegan options. We are passionate about the quality of our dishes. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 11am to 4pm."

"Situated on the riverbank by Millennium Bridge is this “unique and charming floating ice cream van”. Ideal for a sunny afternoon walk by the riverside."

"Their afternoon teas have been hugely popular during lockdown, and when they’re back open they have lots of vegan options on their full menu including fully vegan fry up, buddha bowls, soups and more."