York gives a visitor the unique experience that can only come with a partnership and marriage of modern and historical elements. Much of York – North Yorkshire is historical, however there is a growing and flourishing and cutting edge modern scene. You can find modern art, music, and theatre in many areas of York.

There is such an abundance of modern elements and historical elements that a person really needs to make plans for two vacations to York to fully enjoy each. Unless planning an extended vacation, you can easily spend several weeks exploring the historic sites that lie throughout the city. Or, you can also spend weeks enjoying the modern galleries, fashion, and art districts.

There are over twelve museums in York. The railroad museum has artifacts dating back to the first railway station built in this city that would become a railway hub for England. The city lies between London and Edinburgh which makes it a perfect place to take a holiday.

The York Castle Museum is a must see when vacationing in York. The museum houses living history exhibits that include a Victorian street. This street has residents in period clothing who keep the street alive. You can visit shops, talking to the residents about Victorian York, and see many of the unique ways that things were made and done in Victorian times.

As with many of the buildings in York, you discover quickly that there is also a history to the museum. It is built on the site of a form castle built in 1068 and some of the stones from the castle have been used in the building of the museum. There was also a prison on the site and many of the stones for the museum were retrieved from the prison walls. The exhibits in the museum also offer artifacts that have been retrieved in geological and archaeological digs in and around York. Helmets from the times of the viking, and textiles from medieval times grace many of the exhibits.

The museum and gardens hide another secret that makes wandering a great idea. The ruins of St. Marys Abbey lie in the gardens behind the museum. The ruins still carry the beauty and elegance of when it was built in 1279. You can see where the paths and archways create a monument to the builders of this lasting architectural wonder.

Pleasure cruises are provided by the boats on the River Ouse. A person can see the nearby countryside and many historical sites on one of these trips. Or, you may wish take a guided tour through town to pinpoint the sites where you want to spend time.

York Minster is one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world. There are over 800 years of stained glass in the walls of the cathedral that give provide a soft glow across the cathedral. The architecture of the cathedral encompasses every age of building in England dating back to the Romans. This cathedral is breathtaking in its beauty. The interior of the cathedral has been fully restored and the intricate detail in the statues and marble art is awe inspiring.

This is only a small portion of the activities and sites that are waiting for you in York – North Yorkshire. There are adventures at every corner in this historical city. Taking Snickelways to locations brings an air of adventure and excitement to the vacation that will make it enjoyable and memorable.

For accommodation in York check this list of York hotels.