York

York is about as big a city as you'll find on this site.  It makes our list because of its walled-in medieval feel, cobblestone pedestrianized old-town, and multitude of fascinating sites, all within walking distance of each other.

York Minster (Cathedral) is, in our opinion, one of England's finest, second only to Cantebury.  It's the largest cathedral in Northern Europe and you get that sense wandering around inside.  Try to catch a concert to experience an extra dimension of its mystical power.

Betty's Tea Room is famous across England.  Expensive but worth it.  (For cheaper fare there is a handfull of pubs that do 2 for £10 specials and serve pretty decent food)

Walking the three miles atop the medieval City Wall is a great way to get a feel for York's layout, work in some exercise, capture a unique view of the cathedral, and experience the city's medieval roots.

The pedestrianized Old-town is chockablock full of small shops, street performers, fine restaurants and tea rooms, and old buildings.  Have a stroll and imagine you are living 700 years ago.

York's Train Museum, housed in the spectacular train station, is the best and biggest of its kind in England.  If you are into trains do NOT miss it.

The many Ghost Walks on offer in York play up the city's history of hauntings.  Well worth the tenner it will cost you.

Recommended Hotel: The Bar Convent lies just outside one of the city gates and is the real deal.  Still a convent but the nuns are all so old now that they need an extra source of income, so they turned to hospitality.  The chapel and glass-roofed courtyard where they serve tea and breakfast are alone worth the stay.  Choose a room named after your favorite saint (we chose Laurence, the patron saint of students and barbecues), but book in advance as this is a popular place to stay.

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