The year we’ve all been waiting for is here, 2021. You’ve stayed home for so long, you deserve an adventurous weekend away. And there is no better place for a staycation than the historical city of York.
Here are 21 reasons you should visit York in 2021 – if these don’t tempt you to book, we don’t know what will!
1. Jorvik Viking Centre
Did you know York was originally known as Eboracum when the Romans founded the city? Around 7 centuries later, The Vikings invaded and renamed the city Jorvik. Be transported back to 866AD and see what life was like in York at Jorvik Viking Centre.
2. Guy Fawkes was born here
One of England’s most notorious historical figures was from right here in York – Guy Fawkes! If you visit York in November, you certainly won’t see any fireworks at St. Peter’s College. The school refuses to take part in the traditions out of respect for its alumni.
3. It’s the UK’s chocolate capital
York is the UK capital of chocolate – and you can see why when you visit. York’s Chocolate Story, York Cocoa Works and more tourist attractions embrace this staple of the city’s history – yum!
4. York City Walls
The three-mile walk along York City Walls is encapsulating. Admire the city from every angle on this dreamy stroll, as you pass some of York’s most iconic landmarks.
5. The National Railway Museum
Train fanatics and families alike can enjoy the National Railway Museum, which is also home to the only Japanese bullet train outside of Japan!
6. York Minster
York Minster is the largest Gothic Cathedral in Northern Europe and contains more medieval stained glass than any other cathedral in Britain – some dating back to 1150. It also took an astonishing 250 years to build! Open all year round, it provides the perfect spot to duck into when the Great British weather decides to pour down!
7. The Shambles
The oldest shopping street in Europe can’t be missed – especially their famous weekly markets, where you can find all the treasures York’s independent businesses have to offer. Add some magic to your day and visit the three Harry Potter shops, which can be found at the bottom of the Shambles.
8. The Weirdest Laws (Scotsmen, beware!)
If you’re from Scotland – beware! There are laws on the books where it’s perfectly legal to kill a Scotsman with a bow and arrow on any day other than a Sunday. Luckily, no incidents have happened in recent memory.
9. The Lucky Cat Trail
Cat statues were dotted around York to frighten off rats and mice which could carry the plague. Today, you don’t need to worry about the black death – but you can still download the trail map and spot the cats for yourself!
10. How many attractions?!
We don’t want to brag (we do) – but York is home to more than 30 museums and tourist attractions – more than any other comparable historical city in Britain!
11. City Cruises
City Cruises York has a plethora of packages. Whether you want a whistle-stop tour, relaxing afternoon tea or even a 3-course-evening-meal, there’s something to fit into every schedule! Sit back and unwind as the waters take you down the winding River Ouse.
12. York Maze
To kill an hour or two, wind your way through the fantastic York Maze! As a bonus, if you join for a national holiday, the maze often holds themed events – our favourite is Halloween.
13. Spooktacular Spectres
Such an old city with buckets of history doesn’t come without a ghost or two. York is home to several ghost hunts and tours – some of which are even held under the cover of darkness. Be warned, our hotel in York may be comfortable – but we’re not responsible for any sleepless nights!
14. York Castle Museum
Originally built by William the Conqueror in 1068, York Castle Museum is one of the oldest museums in the UK. Covering every era of York, there is no better place to soak up all the knowledge our city encapsulates.
15. York Dungeon
The dungeons are a fantastic and fearful place to visit – if you dare. Prepare for the city’s best live actors and gory performances, depicting the grizzly, torturous life in York Dungeon throughout history. You may even be asked to volunteer!
16. Castle Howard
Who hasn’t seen Bridgerton, yet? Visit the backdrop of The Duke of Hasting’s estate right here! That’s right – Castle Howard and its beautiful grounds were the backdrop of Netflix’s hit of the season. No reenactments though, please!
17. The Golden Fleece
Are you a real sceptic, or a true believer of the supernatural, but up for a good old fashioned English pub pint anyway – a visit to The Golden Fleece is a must! Notorious for its hauntings, you may feel a chill that doesn’t come from the cold air outside.
18. Askham Bryan Wildlife & Conservation Park
Set in a beautiful historic arboretum at Askham Bryan College is a wonderful conservation park, which is home to lizards, raccoons and even marmosets, to name a few. Aiming to educate the future generation of conservationists, the park provides an endearing educational spin on average wildlife protection.
19. Clifford’s Tower
Standing as a monument to the power of medieval English Kings, Clifford’s Tower was twice burned to the ground, before Henry III rebuilt it in the 13th century. With sweeping panoramic views of York that are guaranteed to take your breath away, it’s not hard to see why Clifford’s Tower has made this list.
20. Yorkshire Museum
The Yorkshire Museum holds 5 permanent collections, covering biology, geology, archaeology, numismatics and astronomy. Opened in 1803, The Yorkshire Museum is proud to own some of the country’s finest historical treasures.
21. York Races
While The York Races may not be back to capacity any time soon – it has to make this list. Some may be lucky enough to dress up in their Sunday best to enjoy the nation’s biggest equine sporting event. Even if you watch from home – get dressed up anyway!
Our York hotel has missed you dearly! We hope this list has given you a few more excuses to visit York when lockdown ends. Until we meet – stay safe, and seize your stay with us as soon as you can! We’ll be here, waiting patiently.
