York

The self-styled capital of the North, York has some serious historical credentials. At various times in its history, the city was the northern capital of Roman emperors, Anglo-Saxon chieftains, Danish Vikings and Norman conquerors, lending its name to the whole of Yorkshire. York is also forever associated with the House of York - the family line of Edward IV, Edward V, Richard III - even though none of the Dukes of York ever lived in the city! Step forward half a millennium and York still transcends the centuries. Medieval buildings lean over the streets and the city center is still bound by its 13th century walls. Understandably, the ...

The self-styled capital of the North, York has some serious historical credentials. At various times in its history, the city was the northern capital of Roman emperors, Anglo-Saxon chieftains, Danish Vikings and Norman conquerors, lending its name to the whole of Yorkshire. York is also forever associated with the House of York - the family line of Edward IV, Edward V, Richard III - even though none of the Dukes of York ever lived in the city! Step forward half a millennium and York still transcends the centuries. Medieval buildings lean over the streets and the city center is still bound by its 13th century walls. Understandably, the attractions of York focus on the past, with dramatic castles, medieval churches, ruined abbeys and fascinating museums designed to stimulate young minds. All these pale, however, when compared to York Minster, England's largest Gothic cathedral. Superimposed on top of all this is a modern British city with excellent shopping and lively nightlife thanks to a plethora of historic pubs. For a break from the city noise, head to nearby Castle Howard, the grandiose setting for Brideshead Revisited.

About the Expert

Joe Bindloss has written more than 30 guidebooks for Lonely Planet, Time Out and other publishers, with a focus on Southeast Asia, the Indian Subcontinent and island nations.