Spotlicht op York
York is one of the most intriguing cities in England. A city layered with history, beauty and variety. Superbly preserved, York has witnessed more than 2000 years of vibrant history – and with its cobbled streets and snickleways, welcoming inns, restaurants and candlelit churches, York is a magical place to visit during the festive period.
Attractions are thick underfoot in York. Highlights include the magnificent York Minster, the world’s biggest and best railway museum and the Castle Museum with its perfectly recreated Victorian and Edwardian street-scenes. Let 21st century technology transport you back to Viking Age York at Jorvik or marvel at William the Conqueror’s Clifford’s Tower and wander through the terrifying York Dungeon.
Quaint teashops and pedestrianised streets make York an ideal city to explore on foot. Enjoy self-guided themed tours on churches, food, the riverside, railway heritage, Roman York and the city walls.
Retail therapy, mince pies and Christmas traditions
Christmas events over the festive period are diverse and offer something for everyone. If you're in need of some retail therapy, enjoy an excellent variety of quality shops in York's historic streets and bustling market place, or combine your visit to one of York's three out-of-town shopping parks featuring the best in designer clothing and high street names. Pick up some great Christmas gifts at 2000 York shops or order your FREE York ‘5 routes to Shopping Heaven’ leaflet by calling the York Visitor Information Centre on 01904 550099.
York brings you the enchanting Festival of Angels 9-10th December, a true winter festival, bringing York a veritable winter wonderland of ice-sculptures, stalls, outdoor food and drink, street entertainment and snow showers! A sight not to be missed! You can see Santa in the Streets and follow the Parade of Angels on Sunday, led by the beautiful Golden Angel.
Stay Longer in York this winter by staying for three nights and only paying for two! Choose from over 40 hotels and guest houses with prices starting from just £52 per person for 3 nights bed and breakfast from now until 31st March 2007. For more information and to book visit www.visityork.org/stay or call York Visitor Information Centre on 01904 550088.
While in York, why not explore further and see Santa as you have never seen him before! At the Yorkshire Air Museum, Santa gives Rudolph a rest and arrives in style by plane! His magical airliner grotto flies in during three weekends before Christmas on the 9-10th, 16-17th and 23-24th December, and every child will not only receive a gift and a meeting with Santa they will never forget, but can also enjoy looking around some of the many other planes at this unique museum. Visits must be pre-booked to avoid disappointment, contact details 01904 608595.
Alternatively meet Santa on the River Ouse by joining a YorkBoat Santa cruise taking place on various dates throughout December. Every child on board will receive a personalised gift and with refreshments for the adults it’s the perfect start to a Christmas break. To book visit www.yorkboat.co.uk or call 01904 628324.
Step back in time this Christmas and enjoy the Dickensian festival. Visit Grassington in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales where the village is alight with Christmas trees and shinning lights. For the three Saturdays before Christmas, Grassington is transported back to the time of Dickens. See the village square and streets transformed into a traditional market with people dressed in period costume. Enjoy the musicians, dancers, street entertainers and exhibitions of traditional country crafts. Experience the pleasure of doing your own Christmas shopping in an atmosphere unlike any other! Quaint shops selling handmade local crafts and produce, combined with a picture perfect location make this a must for any nostalgia lovers! Get there early as this event is always busy!
York and Yorkshire – the perfect place for a traditional Christmas!
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