The Old Post Office, Great Thirkleby ref: 224014

About the local area

If you are looking for a cultural getaway or a romantic weekend break then visit York and be inspired. Renowned for its exquisite architecture, tangle of quaint cobbled streets and the iconic York Minster, York is fast developing a flourishing, cutting-edge scene.

Delve into the city's vibrant café culture, take time out to enjoy some of the country's most talented street entertainers or simply watch the world go by while sipping a drink by the river.

A city of contrasts and exciting discoveries, York is a place where the old encompasses the new and the commonplace meets with the unexpected. Broaden your mind with a visit to world class museums or a variety of festivals held throughout the year catering for all ages and interests.

York's wealth of attractions could keep even the most determined visitor occupied for weeks. A visit to the York Minster, the largest Gothic Cathedral north of the Alps goes without saying. Jorvik Viking Centre an award winning experience transports you to a Viking settlement 1000 years ago and the National Railway Museum with the finest collection of trains in the world.

The National Railway Museum (NRM) is a museum in York forming part of the British National Museum of Science and Industry and tells the story of rail transport in Britain and its impact on society. It has won many awards, including the European Museum of the Year Award in 2001. It is the home of the national collection of historically significant railway vehicles, as well as a collection of other artefacts and both written and pictorial records.

Transport yourself back to the dark and grizzly history of the Roman city of York in the York Dungeons. Live actors, shows and interactive special effects ensure that you face your fears head on in this unique experience. Everything that you see is based on real historical events from the Labyrinth of the Lost Roman Legion, to the chilling tale of highwayman Dick Turpin, torture and the plague. York Racecourse is to the southwest of the city. The most famous race to be held at York on an annual basis is the Ebor Handicap, which is run during the Ebor Festival meeting in August. The course also stages three of the UK's 31 Group One races, the International Stakes, the Nunthorpe Stakes and the Yorkshire Oaks.

Things to do nearby