12th November 2022
It’s been a while, but I wanted to talk about my anniversary trip to York in November. We were blessed with good weather, but chilly temperatures. With no solid plan apart from one activity, we wandered around the city to see what piqued our interest.
Not far from the station were the Museum Gardens with beautiful ruins to explore. Then we crossed the River Ouse to investigate the Shambles; quaint little streets bursting with personality. Obviously, I had to visit York Minster, but only from afar because it was ‘pay to play’ and packed! The walking route along the city walls provided a great viewing point; granting a bit of peace and quiet from the tourist scene below. Clifford’s Tower was our next stop. This was a good time to take a break, so while my partner found a bench to enjoy the scenery from, I climbed to the top for another stunning view.
After locating a cup of tea, we headed to our pre-booked Jorvik Viking experience. It took us on a ‘rollercoaster journey’ back to the past, where we could witness animatronic Viking citizens going about their daily lives. We had no idea what to expect, but left the attraction thoroughly impressed!
Once the evening started settling in, a few drinks were in order in Yates, and a few more at Wagas, before we just about made it on the last train home. I have only vague memories of passing through York when I was younger, so I jumped at the chance to explore this historic town properly.
The ruins in Museum Gardens date from St Marys Abbey in 1088. This Benedictine monastery was home to many monks, scholars and servants. A fairly independent institution from the rest of York, it had its own mill and brewery, among several other establishments. Additional walls were added in the 1260s in order to defend the Abbey. By the 1540, King Henry VIII had banned all monasteries, and St Mary’s Abbey now served as one of his palaces. Over time, this structure became the ruins we are familiar with today.
Links below
Happy walking!
Tali walks 