Known as the capital of the Scottish Highlands, Inverness is a lively city which has much to offer visitors and makes the perfect destination for a short break.

The city has a real ‘buzz’ about it with fabulous places to eat and drink, excellent shopping opportunities and a real sense of history.

Attractions in Inverness

Inverness Castle is a stunning building, which today functions as the Sheriff Court. The sandstone structure was built in 1847, replacing an earlier building which was destroyed by the Jacobites in 1746.

Inverness Museum and Art Gallery has a wide range of exhibits including wildlife, Pictish stones and a display of weaponry.

Places to Visit

Inverness makes an excellent base for those who want to explore the Highlands as some of Scotland’s most spectacular landscape is within easy reach.

Don’t forget that no visit to the Scottish Highlands would be complete without an excursion to Loch Ness to search for ‘Nessie’ the Loch Ness Monster!

Restaurants and Night Life

Kitchen provides good quality, locally sourced food in stunning surroundings: the glass-fronted building has spectacular views over the river.

The Castle Tavern has a good selection of real ales and an outdoor terrace. G’s is a popular nightclub with a 3am licence, playing commercial tunes on Friday and Saturday nights.

Accommodation

There is no sign of the twee tartan décor once synonymous with Highland hotels in the Rocpool Reserve Hotel, where rooms are named Hip, Chic, Decadent or Extra Decadent and come with their own coffee machines and hot tubs.

A previous winner of the title of Top Boutique Hotel at Scottish Hotel of the Year Awards, the Rocpool doesn’t come cheap, but is well worth splashing out on for a real treat.

Those on a budget may want to investigate the Premier Inn, which is central and provides excellent value for money.

Getting There

Inverness airport is 8 miles east of Inverness, with excellent transport links into the city centre. The airport serves the main UK airports and an expanding number of international airports.

Flights from Inverness to Gatwick leave regularly making Inverness a convenient destination for those travelling from the South of England.

There is also a train station in the city center, with direct services to Edinburgh, Glasgow and London from the south and Aberdeen from the east.

It’s also worth checking out the bus operators CityLink, Megabus, National Express and Stagecoach Bluebird that also do routes in and around Inverness.

(photo credit: 1 - 2 - 3)

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It’s time for all love birds to start planning for the most romantic day of the year; Valentines day!

But instead of showering each other with gifts and cards, why not get away from the whole commercialized event and experience something together, go somewhere romantic and enjoy some couples-time?

Let’s leave the cliché destinations of Paris and Venice to the less creative and venture out to some unique romantic destinations in the UK.

Few things are as romantic as a long weekend in a cottage on the British countryside.

The great thing about winter is that prices are often lower, and Regional-Cottages.co.uk have a great promotion running at the moment, offering discounts for couples, just in time for Valentines day.

Here are a few ideas of some romantic destinations to take your loved one on Valentines day…

Isle of Wight

During the winter months, with the summer guests long gone, the Isle of Wight turns into a blissfully peaceful island.

Renowned as one of the richest areas to find dinosaur fossils in Europe, the island has been nicknamed “Dinosaur island”. It’s still a popular place to “hunt for fossils”.

Lake District

The Lake District is one of the most naturally beautiful areas of the country, and covered in a thick layer of white gold, February could be even more enchanting.

Take boat rides on the lakes, or settle into one of the cozy regional cottages and cuddle up by the fireplace.

Cornwall

While Cornwall is beautiful at any time during the year, many actually prefer it during the winter months.

Free from crowds of tourists, and a milder climate in winter than most places in the UK, Cornwall is a perfect valentines destinations.

Best of all, there is something to enjoy no matter the weather. Sunny days are perfect for walking along the deserted beaches, and stormy days are fantastic to walk up towards Godrevy Lighthouse watching the massive waves crashing against the rocks.

Bath

For something more relaxing and indulging, nothing beats a day getting pampered in a spa. Nourished by Britain’s only natural hot springs, no city does spas better than Bath.

The city is practically shaped by its waters, and a visit to the Roman Baths and Thermae Bath is a must.

Yorkshire

The North Yorkshire Moors countryside is as romantic as ever in the midst of winter, just slightly colder. The weather can be at its most dramatic and the changing light on the hills and the moorlands seem to be constantly changing.

It is a landscape of open heath land with hidden valleys with villages that look as though time has passed them by.

What are your plans for Valentines day this year?

(photo credit: 1 - 2 - 3 - 4)

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Cornwall is famous the world over as the home of pasties and the cream tea, but this green and magical county has heaps more to offer.

From wonderful hiking, to great cultural events and the chance for true adventure – you’ll have plenty to keep you happy on a holiday to Cornwall. Take a look at this guide to 10 of our favourite things to do there and you’ll discover Cornwall beyond the clichés.

1. Hiking

The Southwest Coast path is one of the true gems of Cornwall and no visit to the county would be complete without exploring some of it. For striking views and wonderful rolling landscape we suggest tackling the stretch between St Just and Penzance.

When you’ve finished Penzance is a lovely town to take a look around and you won’t be short of decent cafes to choose from, where you can enjoy some well-earned refreshments after you walk.

2. Biking

When it comes to biking in Cornwall we can’t get enough of the Bissoe trail. This trail runs for a gentle 11 miles, all the way from the south coast town of Devoran to the north coast town of Portreath.

Where else can you boast that you have cycled from one side of England to the other, without having broken a sweat?! There’s a great café at the Portreath end and lots to see en route, including some fascinating relics from Cornwall’s mining past.

3. Surfing

There are heaps of great spots to head to if you fancy having a go at surfing in Cornwall but we reckon the friendliest and most accessible by far is Gwithian, near Hayle. There’s a hire shop above the beach and plenty of waves for everyone – so, let the good times roll.

4. Seafood

The celebrity chef, Rick Stein, has set up just about every type of eating establishment you could imagine in Padstow (on the lovely Camel Estuary). Our advice is to ignore them all except for his wonderful Seafood Restaurant – this isn’t because they’re bad by any stretch of the imagination – but because his Seafood Restaurant is just so good.

We say you shouldn’t leave Cornwall without having visited! The winter seaside lunch is a winner– you won’t taste fresher seafood anywhere.

5. Wildlife

If you enjoy seeing wonderful wildlife while you’re out exploring we recommend a visit to Stithians Reservoir. Its home and stop off point to countless native birds, as well as some rarities such as the Glossy Ibis, Ballions Crake and the Pied-billed Grebe – a treat to see.

6. Horticulture

Due to its warm climate Cornwall is host to a whole number of fantastic, well-established gardens, particularly on the south coast.

One of our very favourites is the Lost Gardens of Heligan, near St Austell, which was lovingly restored 22 years ago after being discovered in a state of deep-overgrowth and disrepair. Today the gardens are thriving and a visit there will lead you on a spellbinding journey… take our word for it.

There are many surprises at the Lost Garden of Heligan! 

7. History

Get to grips with Cornwall’s mining heritage with a visit to Poldark Mine. The perfectly preserved mine site is the best example of a complete underground tin mine in the country– plus you can even take a tour with one of the old miners and ask all the questions you can possibly think up.

8. Art

Cornwall is lucky to have its very own Tate Gallery in St Ives, but also not to be missed is the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden. It’s a tiny, intimate gallery and museum that will leave you with the feeling that you have discovered something very special.

9. Culture

If you’re keen on theatre pay a visit to the Tolmen Centre in the magical village of Constantine. This tiny community-run Arts space hosts a varied and exciting programme of events throughout the year.

Catch some traditional Cornish dancing, or a show by The Old Vic: New Voices, or just stop by at their brilliant café.

10. Adventure!

And if you are looking for a real adventure experience in Cornwall, head to Bude where you can try out Zorbing- in other words zooming down a hill inside a giant inflatable ball. This is so much fun and it has to be experienced to be believed!

We hope this has given you some food for thought about the range of activities available in Cornwall. We’ve had heaps of fun finding out about all these things – we hope you will too.  Enjoy!

(photo credit: 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5)

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It comes as no surprise that many holidaymakers choose sunny Cornwall for their summer holiday year after year.  With 250 miles of coastline and almost 200 beaches, you’ll be spoilt for choice in Cornwall with tiny rocky coves and vast expanses of golden sand to tempt you.

But, with so much choice, it’s tricky to know where’s best so we’ve done the hard work and compiled our beach musts no matter what type of holiday you’re after.

Best For Surfing

Fistral Beach in Newquay is the most popular beach for surfers as its exposure to Atlantic swells means water babies are always blessed with fantastic waves.

Surfers from across the globe have been flocking to Cornwall since the 1960s thanks to the virtually perfect conditions and great weather.

Lifeguards patrol the beach from Easter to October so if you’ve got children trying to catch their first wave, you can rest assured they’re in safe hands.

Best For Nature Lovers

The Cornish coast is teeming with wildlife due to the warm Gulf Stream and it’s not uncommon to see grey seals, basking sharks and dolphins as you stroll along the coastal path.

To maximize your chance of spotting the resident pod of bottlenose dolphins, set up camp on the headlands either side of Falmouth Bay.  

The four beaches in and around Falmouth are beautiful and you could easily spend an afternoon on the beach with one eye on the ocean.

Nature lovers are likely to be particularly interested in Swanpool cove which lies next to the Swanpool Lake Nature Reserve as well as being a Site of Special Scientific Interest.

Best For Families

The vast majority of Cornwall’s are family friendly with lifeguards patrolling the sands and shops selling buckets and spades but one of the favourites is Perranporth.

In addition to the amenities you’d normally expect, Perranporth also has rock pools and caves perfect for the kids to explore once they’ve exhausted sandcastle building!

When the sea feels too chilly for a paddle, use the natural swimming pool which fills at high tide and is heated by the sun for a refreshing dip. Choose a holiday cottage at http://www.sykescottages.co.uk/cornwall-holiday-cottages.html and start planning a memorable family holiday in Cornwall.

Best For Your Dog

With many Cornish beaches operating a seasonal dog ban, it’s important to find a stretch of sand which welcomes your furry friend all year round.

Watergate Bay on the north coast is a good bet with a mile of sand at low tide and impressive cliffs which make for excellent dog walks.

Being two miles from popular Newquay means there is plenty to keep you entertained but you won’t struggle to find an empty spot to lay your beach towel.

Best For Unbelievable Views

Sennen Cove on the far western coast is hard to beat when it comes to choosing a beach with picture postcard views.  Turquoise waters and golden sand grace this pretty cove which could easily take the place of far-flung destination on the pages of a glossy travel brochure.

As it’s slightly further up the coast from Land’s End, as you stare out to sea you’ll feel like you’re on the edge of the world.  

Come just before sunset and enjoy a cocktail as the sunk sinks lower and lower in the sky to really appreciate the beautiful surroundings; heaven.

(photo credit: 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5)

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Getting in touch with the history of a city is often times easiest when viewed through a stained glass window – if you’re looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of the High Street, then take a tour of Bristol’s most ancient and awe inspiring churches …

St Mary Redcliffe Church

Described by Queen Elizabeth I as ‘The fairest, goodliest, and most famous parish church in England’, the gothic splendor of St Mary Redcliffe Church cannot be over stated – the first church on this site was likely constructed during Saxon times, when Bristol first became a strategic port city.

As its name might suggest, the church is situated atop a red cliff above the River Avon.

In medieval times, its towering presence was a comfort to seafarers who said prayers to the Virgin Mary upon departure and gave thanks upon their safe return.

The present building is likely the fourth or fifth church that has been built on this site, and parts of the existing church date back to the early 12th century.

Temple Church

Unfortunately this once beautiful church (with a rather colourful past) was heavily bombed during World War II. The ruins of Temple Church now stand in rather stark contrast the surrounding contemporary architecture.

However, Temple Church is probably best known for hosting the sensational 1778 exorcism of George Lukins, who was said to be possessed by 7 demons.

Nonetheless, a walk among the remaining walls allows visitors to take step back in time to the world of the Knights Templar who founded the church in the mid 12th century.

Bristol Cathedral

Open tours are given on Saturdays for those interested to learn a bit more of the history of Bristol Cathedral, which dates back to 1148 when Robert Fitzhardinge founded it as the Abbey of St. Augustine.

The impressive cathedral is most certainly worth a visit, if for no other reason than to hear its beautiful organ, originally built in 1685. Pop in on any Tuesday during term time for a free lunchtime recital and a chance to hear the stunning acoustics of this grand Cathedral.

St James Priory

It was illegitimate grandson of William the Conqueror, Robert Fitzroy, who founded the Priory of St James in 1129.

Local legend has it that every 10th stone brought from Normandy to build the great Norman castle was set aside to build the Priory, making it Bristol’s oldest building still in use today.

This modest priory has continuously served as a place of worship for nearly 900 years.

Church of England Mortuary Chapel

Located in the idyllic Arnos Vale Cemetery, this Grade II listed neoclassical chapel is certainly a peaceful place of rest on the cemetery grounds.

While wandering amongst graves may not be everyone’s cup of tea, this gorgeous green expanse just outside of Bristol is a favourite amongst dog walkers, ramblers and history buffs alike.

While you’re strolling past the many graves in a state of picturesque disrepair, don’t miss the opulent Tomb of Raja Rammohun Roy.

And if you’re looking for a hotel in Bristol this winter, consider a stay at the Holiday Inn Bristol Filton hotel for a convenient, great value accommodation option.

(photos via: 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5)

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Guest post by Jim Stevens - Many of those who’ve never been to Newcastle think that the city is all about coal and industry, in other words: not much fun…

But Newcastle has changed a lot during the years, and has turned into a really cool, stylish urban city perfect for travelers looking for some awesome nightlife – because if it’s one thing they know how to do in Newcastle it’s to party.

The best way to enjoy their famous nightlife is to stay in the center, and if you book early you can definitely find some great deals on Newcastle hotels in good locations close to bars, clubs and restaurants.

There are more bars and pubs in this city to count, but here are my 5 favorite places for a night out in the “toon” (Newcastle lang for town)

Sam Jacks – For The Rodeo King

Located right in the middle of the action, in a heaving nightlife area of Newcastle, Sam Jacks is part of the Gate Complex on Newgate Street.

It’s a two-floor venue, with a capacity of 1000 people; no wonder it’s said to be one of the busiest venues in the “toon” – open six days a week and all day on a Friday and Saturday, you’re guaranteed to have plenty of fun here.

With a built in rodeo bull, available to ride for £1 a go, and the UK’s only “Dentist’s Chair”, where you clamber on stage, sit in the chair and drink a signature smoking cocktail for a bit of good-spirited fun.

The Cluny – For The Artist Wannabe

Definitely a bar for more of the artistic type, The Cluny is found by the river, on Lime Street, in a converted warehouse.

With a gallery at the rear of the venue, and regular new exhibitions, combined with live music frequenting the stage, this chilled out bar is an artistic hub of the city and well worth a visit if you’re after a bit of down time away from the hectic Haymarket.

Browns – For The Super Stylish 

Part of the popular chain of bars, this new establishment is on Grey Street in the city centre.

Super stylish, offering good food as well as quality drinks, Browns is already building a fabulous reputation for itself.

Ideally located if you’re seeing a production at the Theatre Royal, it is often heaving with diners and drinkers, local or otherwise, and has easy listening piano music played throughout the day.

Brewdog – For The Beer Lover

The Scottish beer bar is new in Newcastle and is well worth a visit to sample some of their quality bottled and draught beers.

There’s surely something to suit your taste and, despite being found in the centre of sport-loving Newcastle, there’s not a TV in sight.

With two bars to choose from, including one on the mezzanine level overlooking the main entrance, Brewdog is a refreshing addition to the toon pub scene and should be checked out if you’re in the area.

Trillians – For Rockers & Metalheads

One for the alternative types amongst you, Trillians is a rock and metal bar with DJs on Friday and Saturday nights and live music events during the week.

Popular during the day with occasional drinkers and at weekends by the seasoned rocker, it’s believed by some to be the only rock bar in Newcastle so is a must for rockers and metalheads.

What is your favorite city in the UK for nightlife?

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This year, you’d be forgiven for thinking everything going on in Britain has something to do with the London Olympics – press coverage of the games has brought unprecedented worldwide attention to the city and, as so many people flock to the capital, it’s easy to forget just how much Britain has to offer beyond the showpiece of the games.

If you’re planning a getaway this year, why not explore the British countryside – and find the events, destinations and activities that are right on your doorstep?

Gundog Training & Falconry – Gleneagles

The famous Gleneagles Hotel hosts an impressive range of country pursuits, allowing guests to explore the beauty and drama of its 850-acre rural Perthshire estate.

Two of its most popular attractions are the Falconry and Gundog schools – working with the hotel’s own specially-bred animals – and trained professionals – you’ll have the chance to master two ancient sporting disciplines in a test of agility, skill and animal handling.

It’s a special experience – and a unique introduction to Scotland’s rich sporting heritage.

Water Sports – Lake District

The Lake District is a hugely popular destination for water-sport enthusiasts and offers the opportunity to try out activities like kayaking, water-skiing, wind-surfing and power-boating.

Explore vast, open lakes against a backdrop of rolling hills and mountains – the perfect setting for an action-packed aquatic experience!

Whether you’re already an expert, or still a novice looking for something new to try, getting out on the water is a fun, exhilarating option for all ages and abilities.

Deer Stalking – Northumberland

A practice stretching back hundreds of years, deerstalking is a crucial part of maintaining populations of deer across Britain.

Northumberland has a rich hunting tradition, and for those searching for that authentic historical experience, deerstalking offers a unique perspective on the natural world.

If you think you’re up to the challenge, tracking deer through the quiet, forested hillsides of northern England is a tense and unforgettable experience.

Canyoning – Gloucestershire

Take on the south west’s roughest terrain the hard-way with a canyoning trip that brings you closer than ever to the natural environment.

Guided canyoning tours take you over, under and through some of the most spectacular scenery in the country and present an impressive range of obstacles – mixing climbing, body-rafting and spelunking.

Not for the fainthearted, canyoning is an exhilarating adventure for anyone looking for a physical challenge.

You don’t have to be a sports fan to enjoy the summer of 2012 and, if the Olympics just isn’t for you, don’t spend the time moping – get out there and find something to make your summer a memorable one!

There’re so many things for you and your family to try that the only thing you’ll have to worry about – is what you save for your next trip!

(photo credits: 1 - 2 - 3 - 4)

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With London being the focus of the world for the Diamond Jubilee celebrations for Queen Elizabeth II, many tourists may be considering a trip to the British Isles – this coupled with the Olympic Games being held in London this summer, tourists are bound to be flocking to the ‘Big Smoke’.

Whilst London has a lot to offer tourists, there are many, equally impressive hidden gems in the capital and around the rest of the country.

London

It is hard to imagine that London, one of the world’s most famous cities, has anything left to hide.

While you should not rule out visits to the Houses of Parliament, Trafalgar Square, and Tower Bridge, you could see the whole lot in one go.

To the North of the city lies Regent’s Park – the park itself is full of natural wildlife and is the ideal visit on a nice day.

But the main attraction is Primrose Hill where which stunning views of the London skyline can be seen.

The Lake District

The Lake District lies to the north west of England and while it is a well-known tourist spot, it has to be classed as a hidden gem because every visitor discovers something new each time they visit.

Whether that is the district’s largest lake Windermere, or the towns of Ambleside and Keswick – everyone has a personal favourite.

For me, it’s getting back to basics in the stunning and picturesque setting of Langdale where you can really get drawn into the natural beauty.

Equipment is key for adventures like this and I would advise sleeping hammocks from RV Ops to really be at one with the countryside.

Yorkshire

As the nation’s largest county – Yorkshire has a lot to offer.

Whether that be the historic city of York, the modern metropolitan that is Leeds, the breath-taking east coast or the industry, culture and UNESCO world heritage site of Saltaire in the city of Bradford – Yorkshire has everything.

But in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales, at the bottom of the second highest peak Ingleborough, is Gaping Gill. A relatively unknown site and not one for those scared of heights.

Gaping Gill is a huge cave and one of the largest known underground chambers in Britain.

It also holds the record for the tallest unbroken waterfall in England and is accessible via a winch down the shaft and 344ft to the bottom – not one for the faint hearted!

The West Country

The West Country has many unique attractions, from ancient wonders of Stonehenge, the historic Roman settlement of Bath or the town and Tor at Glastonbury.

There is also a natural wonder hidden away towards the coast.

Cheddar Gorge is accessible by a road going right through the heart, meaning you can see Britain’s biggest gorge via your car. The stunning 450ft cliffs, nature reserve and caves provide a really great day out.

Northumberland

On the border of England and Scotland lies the northernmost county of Northumberland.

This is the most sparsely populated county in England with the majority protected as a national park.

The most impressive attractions are largely man-made however.

In terms of man-made sights to see for tourism in Northumberland, the Roman fortification Hadrian’s Wall is the obvious attraction that comes to mind.

However, for a complete mix of natural and man-made wonder, the tidal island of Lindisfarne is a must.

Also known as Holy Island, the tide determines whether Lindisfarne is accessible by foot or car as low tide reveals Pilgrim’s Way which acts as a natural bridge from the mainland.

Once on the island you will be able to access the stunning castle situated on the top of the mount - travelling around Britain? Buy fashionable and useful dakine luggage from Blackleaf UK to make your trip easier.

(photo credit: 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5)

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Many people living outside of Britain hold a certain image to the country and its inhabitants. It would be incredibly dismissive to quash these visions as untrue for outside visitors – but they’re definitely all not true for all parts of the UK.

They say you should never meet your heroes as you will only be disappointed – the same should be said for places you love. The last thing you’d want is to go to England only to see that what everyone says isn’t true.

It would be cruel to ruin the dream, so here are the best places to go to experience the English stereotypes that you hold dear to your heart.

Now, all you need to explore the land of the Brits is a good camera, a car with European breakdown cover and a comfortable pair of shoes.

London

This is the capital for a reason – you’ll find thousands of traditional stereotypes living and breathing here. Visit the East End for cockney pubs and jellied eels, then travel to the centre for a completely different culture.

Seeing past the busy workers power-walking past on angry phone calls, it’s easy to experience the tradition seeped in England’s capital.

In Westminster you can visit the Houses of Parliament and have a peek down Downing Street – and from politics to royals you can visit Buckingham Palace.

And then there are the skyscrapers, big red buses, the London eye, China Town, the Thames, the West End, Hamleys and Harrods, along with so much more.

York

The best word to encapsulate York is ‘quaint’. With winding, cobbled streets, tea rooms and stone walls, this is a very typically English city.

It has old sweet shops and dusty second-hand book shops, as well as The Shambles – one of best preserved medieval streets in the world.

It is filled with tourist shops, tea shops, and aromas of fudge and chocolate.

Lake District

With breath-taking peaks, quaint countryside towns and Wordsworth’s grave, the Lakes gives postcards of England their pictures.

With around 15.5 million visitors per year, you won’t be the only one chasing traditional England…

Make sure to visit Keswick for traditional English pubs and cafes.

Scarborough

When people think of Britain, they think of fish and chips – whilst the food horizons of many Brits may have broadened, this is still the go-to Friday evening meal for many households across the country.

Scarborough, the largest holiday resort on the Yorkshire coast, is the ideal place to visit for seaside traditions – as well as fish and chips, you’ll find arcades, donkey rides, candy-floss and a nice freezing cold, British sea.

Yorkshire Dales

The county of Yorkshire has strong stereotypes attached to it – and they can all be found in the popular holiday destination of the Yorkshire Dales.

Talkative strangers, farmers, lots of sheep and an abundance of pubs – any village in the Yorkshire Dales will make you feel at home in England.

What is your favorite stereotypical place in Britain?

(photo credits: 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5)

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Things To Do In York – England

When you think of England, what do you think of? Narrow streets? Medieval Architecture? Dreaming spires? Whatever it is, you should visit York – you’ll see a taste of it all, and so much more.

From the moment you step inside the city walls, despite all the signs of modern life, the shops, the traffic, you’re unmistakably somewhere else, somewhere older, wiser even.

One of the first things to do in York is to find yourself a place to stay - York hotels are many and varied, but you’ll want to be placed in the centre to make the most of your time.

Prices start from about £40 per room per night (and go up to around £200), and for that you can expect a clean room, central location and great service.

Here is a list of great things to do in York this summer, and also a few great things to do in York during the up-coming winter months.

Walk Along The City Walls

One of the most popular things to do in York, and a good way to orient yourself when you arrive, is to take a stroll along the city walls. Dating back (in parts) to the Romans, these walls are the best remaining example of city walls in the UK, and encircle parts of the city centre.

As well as getting a taste for the landscape in days gone by, you’ll get a feel for the dimensions of the city, and how modern York has developed. It’s also just a great walk – the wind in your hair and the sun (sometimes) on your face, there are fewer more enjoyable places to kill some time.

Discover York’s History

Popping in to one of York’s many museums, you begin to appreciate why a city like York would need such impressive walls.

First the Romans, then the Vikings, then it was the centre of the War of the Roses, York has been attacked, and attacking, for most of its history.

And you can see that heritage all around you. There’s the Jorvick Centre, the Castle Museum, the Dungeon. When you visit York, a whole other historic world suddenly open ups. Every nook and every cranny of this city seems to throw up a little vignette about the city’s history.

Party With The Students

But of course let’s not forget its future – York is after all, a university town, with a student population of approximately 15,000.

And of course those students need catered for, so around the university, you’ll therefore find a range of bars and clubs to ensure that, after an day exploring the sites, there’s plenty of things to do in York once the sun goes down.

Tour The City

But of course not everything about York requires you to be on your feet. Explore the city by boat with a tour on the River Ouse, or pop on a tour bus and watch the city from the comfort on a double-decker bus.

In fact, the boutique hotel scene in York is enjoying something of a renaissance recently, so why not pop down to one of them and have yourself a little spa?

York was once the centre of the national rail network (as explored in the city’s railway museum) so it’s fantastically easy to get to.

Just a few hours from London on the East Coast mainline, it also has regular, fast and direct connections to Leeds, Manchester, and Newcastle so wherever you are, there’s really no excuse – just go and enjoy the many things to do in York.

(photo credit: 1 - 2 - 3)

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