Cottages in York

Enjoy one of the UK’s most spectacular cities, with an ancient center ringed by stone walls and elegant entrance gates which hark back to the Roman era. Feel a part of the dramatic history of York with a vacation cottage under the soaring York Minster cathedral, or in the other myriad medieval areas of the city center. Perhaps you love being near water, in which case look out for cottages overlooking the River Ouse, which meanders through the city supporting vast numbers of delightful wildlife species. Prefer to relax in the countryside? Just outside York city you’ll be amazed at the range of rural cottages within easy reach of the city’s attractions.

Vacation cottages in York reflect the beauty and history of the region. Pretty gardens abound in the vacation cottages outside of York’s city walls, heading out into the countryside beyond. Vacation cottages inside the city itself often feature lovely outside terraces. Whether you’re traveling alone or as part of a large group, you’ll find the right York vacation cottage for your needs.

York is famous for its delightful medieval streets, packed with beautiful independent stores and boutiques. Are you looking for a special jewelry piece? A ball gown, or a pair of roller blades? Perhaps you want to browse locally produced yarns or be tempted by handmade fudge. Spend your days shopping in York and discover something new on every corner. Take a trip outside the center to the McArthur Glen discount shopping outlet for massive reductions on high street prices – the city for every shopper!

York is literally surrounded by history: its city walls which remain largely intact were once walked on by the boots of Roman soldiers. Enter within the walls through one of the city gates, and discover Clifford Tower. The hill on which it sits once supported a timber keep of William the Conqueror. Viking remains were discovered in York and were preserved for visitors who access them through the interactive Jorvik Center, where visitors can step back into a Viking village and learn more about the archaeological findings. No matter your historical era of interest you’ll find a fascinating insight into it in York.

York’s nightlife is legendary. You’ll find some of the region’s finest restaurants in York, and if fine dining would make your evening, you’ll have so much choice to consider. But the fun doesn’t stop with food. York’s famous Ghost Walk starts at dusk and takes you on a historical – and ghoulish – trip around the most haunted areas of the city. If you’re seeking cultural entertainment, York Theater Royal features a wide variety of theatrical shows in its stunning building which dates back to 1844!

York’s history is displayed in gruesome, audio-animatronic detail in the York Dungeons, an extraordinary representation of medieval life in York including torture equipment which was used within these very walls. Not for the faint hearted!

Free to enter, York’s Railway Museum houses truly special trains such as the Japanese Bullet Train and The Mallard. You’ll also find a delightful model railway and a fabulous exhibition of railway memorabilia. High quality refreshments are available at excellent prices, as well as a picnic area inside a lovely natural playground. A fabulous day our for young and old.

The Shambles is York’s most famous shopping street and is a sight to behold whether or not the lovely stores which line it interest you. Timber framed buildings lean this way and that, apparently precariously, but just as they have for several hundred years!

The Museum Gardens, free to enter, house a huge botanical collection which is a delight to walk around. Enjoy a picnic on the grass or wander round the ruins of St Mary’s Abbey which still stand proudly within the grounds of the gardens.

This superb, interactive museum holds something of interest for everyone. Explore their excellent reproduction of a Victorian street, or step back in time right into the real historic prison cells!

This beautiful country home is just 15 miles from York and is well worth the trip. Enjoy the historic house and its well-kept grounds and give the kids a treat at the wonderful adventure playground.

The York Art Gallery’s collection ranges from Victorian paintings to Dutch masterpieces to 20th Century Lowrys. The gallery is one of the finest art collections in the north of England and a must-see destination for all art lovers.