York

Step back in time and explore the wonderful ancient city of York with us. It is one of the most historically significant cities in the UK and its impressive past is evident everywhere. The city is steeped in its ancient roots: from its Viking origins, to becoming the Roman Empire’s northern capital, and then establishing itself as an important medieval centre. The imposing and impressive city walls are the longest and best-preserved fortifications in the country. The iconic and towering York Minister - which began construction in 1220 and took over 250 years to complete - has amazing, panoramic views of the city if you dare climb the 275 steps of the Central Tower. Its Great East Window, the largest single expanse of medieval stained glass in Europe, is a captivating sight. The charming cobbled, winding streets with centuries old buildings are full of intriguing and unique shops to explore or treat yourself to one of the myriad of coffee shops.

The city of York has many attractions. You can travel back through time and discover what life was like in 10th century York at the Jorvik Viking Centre. The National Railway Museum tells the history of how railways shaped modern Britain. Or you can discover York’s Chocolate Story, an award-winning tour attraction about the city’s fascinating history of chocolate making. A hop-on hop-off bus tour, or a short cruise on the River Ouse, will let you see York from different perspectives. Other places can be easily reached by train, such as Harrogate, Scarborough or Durham. Depending on demand, there could be an organised day trip, perhaps to Whitby and the North Yorkshire Moors with a ride on a steam train. All tours and entry to places of interest would be additional to the cost of the holiday.

The 3-star Best Western York Pavilion Hotel will be our base for this holiday. It is a beautiful Georgian country house with landscaped gardens and is a 25-minute walk, or a 9-minute bus ride, to the heart of the city.

Travel to the hotel would be by your own transport. There are 40 car parking spaces at the hotel, charged at £10 per day on a first-come first-served basis. Direct trains run from Edinburgh and Inverness.

Vacation notes:

• Accommodation is in a beautiful period hotel located on the outskirts of the city with dinner, bed and breakfast included. There is no lift facility.
• This holiday can be easy level, or as active as you want
• Travel to the hotel is self-organised

Cost: