York Hotels - The beautiful and historic city of York lies between the River Foss and the River Ouse. It is the capital of Yorkshire and was once the ancient capital of the North of England. Few places have the rich history and heritage that York possesses and every year millions of people flock to the city to sample its many charms. York has 27 conservation areas, 2084 listed buildings and 20 scheduled ancient monuments in its care, as well as one of the countries leading universities.

As you will no doubt notice whilst exploring York, the two main influences are the Romans and the Vikings. England was invaded in 43AD by four Roman legions and in 71AD the 9th legion arrived in what is now York. Its fine buildings, baths, temples, amphitheatre and forums gave York such importance that emperors came to stay here. Two emperors even expired here – Septemus Severus and Constantius Clorus, indeed Clorus’ son, Constantine was proclaimed in York – the only city outside of Rome where this has occurred. He later became Constantine the Great and his statue can be seen outside the south transept of York Minster.

The Vikings, who arrived out of the blue, sailing in hundreds of longboats up the Ouse, defeated the Saxons and changed the city’s name from ‘Eoforwick’ to ‘Jorvic’. The last Viking King of York was Eric Bloodaxe. Much more can be learnt about this period in the city’s history by paying a visit to the fascinating Jorvic Centre.

York is a walled town and its walls can still be walked today. They were originally constructed of wood, but were rebuilt in stone between 1250-1315.

The city has many links with famous (and infamous) people and many sites of historical interest. Dick Turpin was imprisoned in York Castle and hanged near to York Racecourse on 19th April, 1739. He is buried across from St. George’s Church in York. Guy Fawkes was born and baptized here in 1570. The excellent York Dungeon is a must see, bringing 2000 years of gruesomely authentic history back to life.

York Minster is the largest medieval church in Northern England, and there has been a place of worship on the site of the Minster since 627. It is worth visiting just to see its fantastic examples of stained glass.

‘The Shambles’, is perhaps one of the most photographed streets in Britain. It is also the oldest street in York and was mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086, under its Latin name, ‘In Macello’. In 1872 it was recorded that the ‘The Shambles’ possessed 26 butcher’s shops! It is now home to a number of fascinating shops and has lost none of its ‘olde worlde’ charm.

Another place not to be missed is the Yorkshire Museum. Set in 10 acres of beautiful gardens, it tells of a thousand years of the region’s heritage. For culture vultures, the York City Art Gallery displays six hundred years of European painting.

York has the reputation as being one of the most haunted cities in Britain, with a reputed 140 ghosts within the old city walls. Why not embark on one of the city’s famous ghost trails with a knowledgeable tour guide?

Those seeking refreshment will find that they are well catered for – it is said that the York area possesses a pub for each day of the year! Add to this the 200 restaurants, countless cafes and coffee shops, entertainment complexes, cinemas and theatres, including York’s Grand Opera House. The city also offers superb shopping facilities with over 2000 shops, and several large shopping centres and department stores.