Mentioned by History Hit
10 of the Best Historic Sites in York
"Clifford’s Tower (also known as York Castle) has been at the heart of York for many centuries now. It’s endured a fair few battles and what remains of the fortified complex that once consisted of prisons, castles and law courts, is now a ruinous castle. You can climb to the top of the tower for a small fee, where you’ll see panoramic views of the Vale of York."
"Students can find it right between the Castle Museum and the Jorvik Viking Centre. Clifford’s Tower offers visitors stunning panoramic views over Old York, thus making it the ideal starting point for any visit to the city. There’s plenty to discover here, including the remains of York Castle built by William the Conqueror, a prison and a royal mint."
"With five galleries showcasing a range of archaeological treasures as well as displays of rare animals, birds and fossils, the Yorkshire Museum also boasts fabulous greenery, making it the perfect place for tourists to enjoy a relaxing, scenic walk. Established during the 1830s, the historical gardens are famous for their wonderful selection of trees, shrubs, perennials, and bulbs. With botanical gardens comprised of 10 acres, Yorkshire Museum Gardens is the ideal place to visit for a relaxing retreat."
"The Museum Gardens are potentially my favourite place in the whole of York. Regardless of the time of year, the Museum Gardens always look in pristine condition and there are ample places for you to get a good pic for the ‘gram. From St. Mary’s Abbey that provides an idyllic historic backdrop, to the plethora of trees, plants and flowers that are scattered all over the gardens, as well as the Yorkshire Museum, the Museum Gardens are an incredible place for taking pictures."
"As you know we love spending time outside so it’s nice that there is a lovely outdoor area in the heart of the city. York museum gardens are beautiful gardens even in the winter when we visited. I can only imagine how stunning they are when the flowers are in bloom."
"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."
"LICC is excited to be back in business and will be operating daily from 10am-6pm. They are adhering to strict social distancing guidelines by only allowing 2 people in the shop at a time, but will make exceptions for small babies & children of course. Daily specials and deals are on their Instagram stories so stay tuned!"
"This beautiful vintage-style ice cream parlour (also known as LICC) is a must visit. Enjoy a daily selection of homemade ice cream and fun toppings. Take a seat inside and admire the quirky interior or outside in the sun!"
"Recognised as one of the best universities in Yorkshire, the University of Hull is a worthy destination to visit with its large and photogenic campus. There are many eating facilities on campus during school days as well, ranging from street food to catered fine dining."
"For a gallery with a real “homely” feel, look no further than Kentmere House. Kentmere’s original art is displayed in multiple rooms of a fine Victorian house overlooking York’s famous Knavesmire race-course, welcoming visitors in with a friendly smile and welcoming atmosphere. The house and gallery is owned by Ann and David Petherick, which opened after Ann moved to York from Suffolk in 1979 and was amazed to find that there was no contemporary gallery."
"York has been an important military base since the IX Legion was here in Roman times. York Army Museum displays a large and diverse collection dedicated to The Royal Dragoon Guards, The Prince of Wales's Own Regiment of Yorkshire and The Yorkshire Regiment. All have a long connection to the city."
"The Wars of the Roses, the Plantagenets, and Richard III are events and characters embedded in the history of York, so what better place to get to grips with one of the main players than inside the city walls?. Located in Monk Bar gatehouse, where the top floor was commissioned by Richard himself, the Richard III Experience takes you on a journey through the king’s short-lived reign, including what life was like in York during the late 15th century, and a selection of changing exhibitions. While there, don’t miss the chance to walk around the city walls, arguably York’s greatest monument, and make for the sister Henry VII Experience at Micklegate Bar, easily reached in around route that even includes a few pubs along the way."
"The best-preserved of York's medieval city gates houses this museum which explores the life and reign of Richard III (r 1483–85) and his impact on York, and sets out the case of the 'Princes in the Tower',..."
"Sizzling Pubs do a excellent value breakfast with unlimited help-yourself tea or coffee up to 12 noon. You can go for the Sizzling Breakfast (Two juicy pork sausages, two rashers of grilled back bacon, two fried free-range eggs, grilled tomato, grilled flat mushroom, potato and onion hash, Heinz® baked beans and your choice of unlimited white or wholemeal toast with butter. Served sizzling on a skillet, or on a plate if you prefer), or just porridge or white or brown toast. You can also go for a bacon or sausage bap (vegetarian versions available)."
"Kennedy’s is a unique York bar and restaurant with a flexible layout spread across two floors. A roof top sun terrace is here too in this popular party venue located right in the heart of The Quarter on Little Stonegate. The interior is ultra modern and DJs or live music artists often feature at weekends."
"Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing. Kennedy’s Bar & Restaurant is really the place to be. It stays open until late, with not expensive alcohol, open-mic nights, two-for-one burger on Wednesdays and a special roast on Sundays."