View of York from Clifford’s Tower
The last two stops on my trip were York and Windsor.
Clifford’s Tower
York is a historic medieval city. In fact, it was one of the most important cities of the Roman Empire. For many centuries, it was a major port and trading center because it is set on the Rivers Ouse and Foss.
York is a beautiful city and, if you go, I recommend walking it. It is the best way to see everything and gain a true appreciation of the city. I walked everywhere, including the entire city wall, which is about three miles.
There are tiny alleyways and historic buildings all over York. One of the alleyways, The Shambles, inspired Diagon Alley in Harry Potter. At the center of all of the historic buildings and medieval streets is the York Minster. The York Minster is a magnificent work of architecture. Construction on the Minster began in 1220 and it took more than 250 years to complete. It is definitely worth a visit.
York Minster
York City Wall
The Yorkshire Museum has quite the collection of artifacts, but the gardens impressed me the most. They are gorgeous. The ruins of St. Mary’s Abbey stand in the gardens. St. Mary’s Abbey was destroyed by Henry VIII during the Reformation of the church. After a day of walking around, the gardens are a great place to relax and have a picnic.
Ruins of St. Mary’s Abbey
Gardens at Yorkshire Museum
Windsor Castle
Windsor is a small town built around Windsor Castle. It’s a cute town, but, of course, the highlight is the castle, which was built by William the Conqueror. It is the oldest inhabited castle in the world. A tour of the castle takes you through the State Apartments, which are quite opulent.
Windsor Castle
Have you visited York or Windsor?
For more about my trip, read my other posts:
Jennifer goes to the British Isles
Jennifer goes to the British Isles – More of London
Jennifer goes to Warwick Castle, Stratford-upon-Avon, and Oxford University
Jennifer goes to Bath and Stonehenge
Jennifer goes to Warner Bros. Studios and Chester
Jennifer goes to Dublin and Cork
Jennifer goes to the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren
Jennifer goes to Alnwick Castle, Stirling Castle, and Loch Lomond
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York is fine, but you shouldn’t drink their tea…’Yorkshire Tea’ takes about three days to brew to the correct strength.
Windsor Castle is good for the views of the surrounding countryside.
I didn’t try the tea while I was there. Yes, the views from Windsor are beautiful.
I had the chance to visit York many years ago. It was definitely one of my favorite places! It was so quaint and walking along the streets seemed to make feel like I was in a different period of time. I did get to take a horse and carriage ride which was a lot of fun. It truly was a charming place! I will say that I did not enjoy the English food and typically I like anything. It was either bland or heavy. But I’m sure things have improved a lot over the years. One day I hope to go back.
It is a wonderful city to visit. I thought the food was pretty good, but I have to eat gluten-free so I don’t know if that made a difference. I loved being able to walk into any restaurant and order gluten-free. I got somewhat spoiled. 🙂