Glimpses of York

York. One of the great cities of the North. Appreciated not for industrial heritage like Sheffield, Manchester or Leeds but for the rich history that you find everywhere you turn, and can practically smell in the air. Yet it is small enough to feel very friendly, is easy to get around on foot, is great for a spot of wandering and soaking up the atmosphere and has lots and lots to see and do.

York was an important Roman fort, a Saxon and Viking settlement, a medieval walled city, a city full of fine Georgian architecture and a hub of the Victorian railways. The two main shopping streets run along the lines of the two main Roman roads leading to the fort. Then there are lots of tiny, twisty passages and alleyways from medieval days. It is such a fantastic place to explore, to wander about and see what you can find. Here are some glimpses from a recent short stay.

It is time to go exploring.

What will we find around the corner?

There are sculptures on many buildings. Maybe we are being watched? Think what they have seen.

The streets are so interesting but remember to look up or you will miss many sights and details.

Look out for the cat!

And the sheep!

We come across a round stone building, maybe part of the old wall?

Then some beautiful old timbered buildings, look how uneven they are.

We see some scary faces looking down on us.

And some beasties.

Run!

We look through the gates at the Treasurer's house and decide to pay it a visit.

There is lovely stained glass bought from majestic old houses needing to sell items to survive.

Look at the grand staircase with amazing wallpaper, large portraits and the superb chandelier.

Then we take refuge from the rain in the nearby Minster.

We see the Rose Window and stare at the colours.

Then admire a tapestry, the ram catches our eye.

We look at the most beautiful ceiling in a circular room and feel a little bit dizzy.

And admire a gorgeous tiled floor when we need to look down again.

We come across this and stop still and think.

Afterwards we see there be dragons and we leave quickly.



Suddenly we notice ornate red brick instead of stone, it makes quite a change.

Look at the lion on the drainpipe. The water roars from it's mouth.

It is then that we realise we are a little bit weary and need to go off and find tea and cake before we can explore anymore.