Saturday 3rd February 2007 'Steaming into Historic York'
Welcome to York, once the capital of northern England. As you wander York's narrow streets, riverside walks and peaceful
gardens, spare a thought for those who have gone before. Romans, Vikings, highwaymen and Victorian industrialists to name
just a few. All have played their part in this city's distinct history.
The Roman Emperor Constantine was acclaimed emperor here in 306AD and heralded the modern age through his acceptance
of Christianity. Guy Fawkes was born here and Dick Turpin, the notorious highwayman, was imprisoned in what is now the Castle
Museum prior to being hanged on the city's Knavesmire.
Everywhere you turn there are stunning buildings which reflect York's rich industrial past such as its woollen trade,
railways and confectionery - a delicious affection for chocolate being brought about by the enterprising foresight of both
the Rowntree and Terry (Quaker) families.
Immerse yourself in the glories of
York Minster - the largest gothic cathedral north of the
Alps.
www.yorkminster.org Clifford's Tower, meanwhile, was originally built as a wooden tower by William the Conqueror
and replaced by Henry III in the 13th century by a circular stone tower.
The nearby York Castle Museum is also worth a visit. With over 100,000 items to see, it houses
recreated Victorian and Edwardian shopping strets and you can also visit the prison cells where Dick Turpin spent his last
night alive.
York's historic streets also have plenty to occupy the keen shopper, The Shambles is one of
the best preserved medieval shopping streets in Europe, now home to craft shops and boutiques, whilst you will find the oldest
row of houses in York in Goodramgate, which now houses individual stores such as a specialist beer
shop.
Come to the largest railway museum in the world, now with free admisson - the National Railway Musuem
www.nrm.org.ukGet face-to-face with the Vikings on the very site where archaeologists discovered the remains of the place they once
called home - Jorvik the finest UK Viking attraction
www.vikingjorvik.comFor other attractions in York try the local tourist information site at
www.visityork.org
Tour buses are operated by City Sightseeing, who kindly issue discount vouchers for use by Green Express Railtour passengers.
These vouchers are issued on the train to give a discount on their York tour buses
www.city-sightseeing.com 
