York for the Day

Amy, from our UK Department, spent the day in a very sunny York in February. She managed to view five hotels and visited attractions in the centre of this historic city.

What a lovely place to visit in the sun! The daffodils were out meaning spring was officially on its way.

After a quick train ride from Manchester and a short stroll along the river Ouse, Amy visited the York Castle Museum. This museum is so much more than its name. Split into two parts, the exhibition takes you through the ages with original memorabilia from different decades. There is commentary throughout the one-way system with sounds and conversations of the times. The first part ends with Kirkgate, a Victorian Street where volunteers are dressed in period costume and give regular talks and demonstrations. The school house, pharmacy and sweet shop were some of the highlights. In the second part of the visit, it is more focused on World War II with permanent and temporary exhibitions. The staff members were knowledgeable and invited any questions from visitors. There was a gift shop and small café to provide rest to tired feet. A recommended time for a visit is 2-3 hours.

Amy then met with City Cruises, located just a short walk from the York Castle Museum through public gardens, the cruisers operate over regular intervals throughout the day. They take you on a 45-minute cruise – an ideal length of time to see York centre from the water, giving you a different perspective of the city.

The hotels in York offer very different positives. Central hotels are close to the city walls, perfect for an evening stroll after dinner, visiting the Shambles or the market during a free day. Hotels on the outskirts have proximity to York Race course and complimentary coach parking which is advantageous for any busy itinerary.

On the way back to the station to catch the next train, Amy stopped to buy some Parkin, a traditional Yorkshire ginger cake and a Yorkie bars of course for her colleagues in the Greatdays office.

Click here to view our new tour to York