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Micklegate Bar -

The most important of York's four main medieval gateways, Micklegate Bar was the entrance to the city for anyone arriving from the South. For centuries the severed heads of traitors and rebels were displayed above the arch.

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The Shambles -

Mentioned in the 'Domesday Book' of 1086, Shambles is one of the oldest streets in York. Many of the buildings date back to the mid-14th century and early 15th century. A popular tourist destination, the attractive street is lined with a mix of restaurants, pubs, and shops.

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Jórvik Viking Centre -

Fancy a realistic encounter with a band of bearded Norsemen? This museum—one of the most popular visitor attractions of its kind in the United Kingdom—features an amazing interactive gallery imaginatively set over the site of the famous Coppergate dig, which unearthed the fascinating history of the Vikings and the town they called Jóvik.

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York Minster -

The city's standout visitor attraction, York Minster is one of the world’s most magnificent cathedrals. The present building, a masterpiece of religious Gothic architecture, was built throughout 250 years (between 1220 and 1472) over the remains of a Roman fortress.

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York Minster -

It's worth a good hour of your time exploring the interior of this exceptional building. The octagonal Chapter House (pictured) is especially captivating with its extraordinary geometric patterned ceiling and beautiful stained glass windows.

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National Railway Museum -

Even if you have only a passing interest in the history of rail, it's worth pulling into this excellent museum, the home of iconic locomotives and an unrivaled collection of engineering brilliance. This is where to keep track of the story of rail transport in Britain and its impact on society.

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Merchant Adventurers' Hall -

Exploring York's ancient guildhall is to journey back to 1357 and discover a stunning example of medieval architecture. The Great Hall is the largest timber-framed building in the United Kingdom.

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St Mary's Abbey -

An outstanding feature of York Museum Gardens is the ruined abbey of St Mary. First built in 1088, St Mary's was one of the wealthiest and most powerful Benedictine monasteries in England. Try and visit between tour parties, when you can hear birdsong echoing off the centuries-old walls.

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Yorkshire Museum -

Don't miss this fabulous cultural attraction and its esteemed collections dedicated to biology, geology, astronomy, and archaeology. The museum hosts an annual event, the Eboracum Roman Festival. The museum's exhibits include some truly unique and priceless treasures such as the the St Mary's Abbey Figurine and the 8th-century Coppergate Helmet.

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York Art Gallery -

Paintings dating back to the 14th century share space with contemporary prints, watercolors, drawings, and ceramics at this splendid gallery. Paul Nash and L.S. Lowry are just two of the important British artists whose work is exhibited here.

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Treasurer's House -

A group of Roman soldiers is said to haunt the cellar of this lavish late 19th-century show home. Visitors can join a guided tour of the premises, which takes in the spruce gardens, the rooftop attic where the servants once lived, and the spooky basement.

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Roman York -

York was Eboracum to the Romans, which they founded in 71 CE. The city's most significant structure from this period is the tower of York city walls, the only surviving landmark of Eboracum's legionary fortress (the top half is medieval).

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Constantine the Great -

Students of Roman history should pay their regards to Constantine the Great. He was proclaimed as emperor by the army at Eboracum in 306 CE and ruled until 337. His bronze statue is located outside York Minster.

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Sightseeing cruise -

The city is located at the confluence of the Rivers Ouse and Foss and can therefore be appreciated from the water. A number of entertaining and informative river cruise options exist, including lunch and afternoon tea excursions, and early evening cruises. There are also self-drive boats for hire.

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Guy Fawkes Inn -

This historic pub located in High Petergate under the shadow of York Minster is the birthplace of Guy Fawkes (1570–1606), chief conspirator in the failed Gunpowder Plot to blow up the palace at Westminster as Parliament and King James I sat within.

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Holy Trinity Church -

York Minster may be the showstopper, but this easily overlooked 15th-century church hidden away in a quiet backstreet is renowned for its paneled wood box pews where families prayed together, a rare and unique feature in the city.

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Clifford’s Tower -

A familiar city landmark, Clifford's Tower is all that remains of York Castle, built by William the Conqueror in 1068. The imposing ruins afford stunning panoramic views over Old York.

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Monk Bar -

Monk Bar is the grandest and most ornate of York's ancient fortified gateways. Dating back to the early 14th century, the bar was a self-contained fortress and served as a formidable deterrent when the threat of a hostile Scotland was particularly great. Today, the building houses the engaging Richard III Experience, an exhibition showcasing the life and times of the last Plantagenet King of England.

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Grays Court Hotel -

If you're looking to stay in York while keeping with the historic character of the destination, book a room at the charming Grays Court Hotel, the oldest inhabited house in the city. This is also where to find the Bow Room restaurant, one of the finest eateries in town.

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The Shop That Must Not Be Named -

A must for Harry Potter fans, this magical boutique is where to find apparel, accessories (including wands and broomsticks), books, and collectibles, and everything else on the Hogwart's supply list. The shop is on the Shambles, said to be the inspiration for Diagon Alley.  

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The Punch Bowl -

Another historic York property said to be haunted, the Punch Bowl has been a pub for over four centuries. Exuding authentic period character, this is a favorite local watering hole where real ale and hearty pub food is served all day.

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Stonegate -

The devil's in the detail on York's famous Stonegate, one of the city's most attractive and architecturally varied streets. The red devil outside number 33 is a traditional symbol of the printer—the location is associated with goldsmiths, printers, and glass painters.

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High Petergate -

Pictured: the street sign for High Petergate in York with a statue of Minerva, the goddess of wisdom and learning. The statue is a reminder of when the street was the home of many booksellers and bookbinders.

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Yorkshire pudding -

While in York, be sure to try Yorkshire pudding, a regional delicacy. Made from batter consisting of eggs, flour, and milk or water, it's usually served as a side dish with beef, but can also be filled with foods, especially sausage. Delicious!

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Yorkshire Wensleydale cheese -

Looking for a tasty snack? Ask for a slice of Wensleydale, a style of cheese forever associated with the area. For a treat, choose it with cranberries (pictured).

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Beyond the city -

York sits near the spectacular Pennines hill and mountain range and is bordered by the North York Moors National Park and the Yorkshire Wolds, both areas of outstanding natural beauty and worth a diversion. 

See also: The best sights to explore in the North of England.

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