The city of York is famous for its Roman roots and Viking past, holding a rich history which is celebrated in this wonderfully preserved piece of ancient England. The cobbled streets and antique buildings are a wondrous sight that attract millions of visitors to make York a tourist hotspot; but there is much more to modern York too, as the city evolves with a host of attractions that make this a vibrant visit. From innovative food and fun festivals to irresistible shopping and unique culture, there are many reasons to explore York’s past, present and future.

To learn about the city’s history, there are a variety of fun activities. Tours tell of its haunted ghost stories and others walk the famous city walls, whilst Jorvik Viking Centre attracts all ages for an educational and interactive journey back a thousand years. Trips to the stunning York Minster, which dominates the city skyline, to the charming cobbled street Shambles, on which tourists flock, and to the impressive National Railway Museum, which homes an iconic collection, all showcase York’s inspiring past whilst maintaining its essential presence.

For drinks, York has a marvelous mix of traditional pubs and modern bars. For beers and character, crawl around Pivni, House of the Trembling Madness and dozens more. For wine and cocktails, Pairings, Forage and 2ManyWines are amongst the many tempting establishments. York even makes and exports its own successful alcohol which can be sampled fresh courtesy of master crafters Brew York and York Gin.

Whilst the architecture of the city in itself entertains, you’ll find plenty of events to keep the mood high. Shows at York Theatre Royal and Grand Opera House bring great theatre to the stage. Music of different genres and sizes can be heard coming out of venues including York Barbican and The Crescent. York Racecourse brings thousands in to enjoy the city, whilst festivities fill the streets with stalls at Christmas and in Summer; and all year round, for history, culture, shopping, food, drink and entertainment, York is a magnificent modern city.