Say Hello To York!
York, a city with an intriguing past, remains one of the most sought-after destinations in the upper midlands of England. While the surrounding Yorkshire countryside is renowned for its breathtaking beauty, Yorkshire itself has been featured in numerous popular films and TV series over the years, adding to its allure.
As an old city, York captivated me in many ways, and as a Harry Potter enthusiast, my interest was piqued even further! So, we embarked on a magical weekend getaway to this enchanting city.
Our journey began with a train ride, my preferred mode of travel. The York train station, which was used for some scenes in the Harry Potter films, is a perfect blend of old-world charm and magic
For our stay, we opted for a lovely Airbnb, which turned out to be a fantastic choice. Our cozy little flat was situated along the main street, just a short walk from the town center and the enticing aroma of tasty bakeries.
York is a highly walkable city, making a car or any other form of transportation unnecessary. It took us a mere 25 minutes to traverse the center of town. Each morning, we would set out with a cup of coffee in hand, ready to explore. Partisan, one of our favorite bakeries, was conveniently located just around the corner, offering a delightful array of treats.
The Shambles: A Real-Life Diagon Alley
The highlight of our visit was undoubtedly The Shambles. This area of town is so adorable that words fail to do it justice. If you've ever imagined what a real-life Diagon Alley would look like, The Shambles is it! With its abundance of old and new shops, bakeries, and tea spots, it's a paradise for explorers. The streets are even more magical in the morning when they're empty.
York Minster Cathedral and The Wall
We also ventured towards the famous York Minster Cathedral. Although we didn't go inside, we admired its grandeur from the outside. Instead, we opted to take a walk along The Wall, an old city wall that surrounds York, offering a wonderful way to see the city and its stunning views.
Pros and Cons
What I love about York is its ancient charm. The city is filled with adorable shops, narrow cobblestone streets, and picture-perfect historic houses that lean over the streets, each telling a story. There are lovely places scattered around town for a drink, a bit of shopping, and plenty of Harry Potter moments to be had. The walkability of the city is a huge plus, making it safe and pretty.
However, due to its small size, you might run out of things to do after 2-3 days. Nightlife isn't as vibrant, shops close early, and the city becomes quite quiet at night. If you want to visit the cute towns nearby or explore the Yorkshire Dales, you might need a car, as trains may not be as convenient for reaching the countryside.
Here's a list of must-do activities in York:
1. See York Minster: Marvel at the grandeur of this beautiful cathedral and climb the tower for panoramic views.
2. Walk on the City Walls: Stroll along the ancient walls surrounding York for a unique perspective of the city.
3. Visit the Shambles: Explore this enchanting old street with its quaint shops and cafes housed in charming buildings.
4. Go to the Railway Museum: A treat for train enthusiasts and history buffs, with an impressive collection of old trains.
5. Check out York Castle Museum: Step back in time and explore old artifacts and a recreated old street.
6. Join a Ghost Tour: Uncover York's spooky side with a tour filled with haunting tales.
7. Explore the Jorvik Viking Centre: Immerse yourself in Viking history at this engaging museum.
8. Relax in Parks and Gardens: Take a break in the city's lovely parks, perfect for a leisurely walk or a peaceful moment.
And don't forget to stop by these fantastic cafes and bakeries:
- Drift - In York: A trendy, modern cafe in the heart of the city.
- Partisan: Indulge in delectable baked goods to start your day on a sweet note.
- Coco Joes: Treat yourself to a boozy hot chocolate for the ultimate indulgence!
York is a city that will capture your heart with its perfect blend of history, magic, and charm. So, pack your bags and get ready to be enchanted by this delightful destination!