York is one of the most old cities in England and has come a long form since the Romans key completed a fort between the River Foss and the River Ouse. The municipal that grew up around it was originally christened Eboracum and strong protective walls were manufactured, forming the base of the metropolis walls that remain nowadays. The rectangular gatehouse of Micklegate drinking house marks the main entrance to the borough, but thankfully traitor's heads are no longer laid out there to deter rebellions.



Castle Howard is located 15 miles north east of York, just off the A64. The magnificent house has a charming 18th century Walled Garden and 1,000 acres of gardens offering breathtaking views towards the North York Moors and Yorkshire Wolds. Free guided outdoor tours take city daily between March and October revealing the secrets of the gardens and the architecture. Castle Howard also promotes six unique shops - an award-winning farm shop, chocolate shop, plant centre, a bookshop and two gift shops - as well as a restaurant and cafe.

Relaxing horse and pony trekking is available from Trek and Trail in Staintondale. Scenic trails along moors and coast, as well as picnic and speciality rides may be booked by individuals or groups. Snainton Riding centre in Snainton is a traditional riding school set in foxy countryside. Having been established for nearly 40 years, the school rodomontades qualified instructions, exceptional facilities and well-educated horses. If you would prefer to explore by bike or boat, contact Purple Mountain Bike middle & Cafe in Dalby Forest on 01751 410011 for bike hire or Wavescene Marine Ltd of Scarborough on 01723 374400 for sea fishing, coastal cruises and commercial or corporate boat charters.

Urge for free parking, late night shopping and a mammoth selection of distinguished High Street stores? Call Monks Cross Shopping Park just a some minutes from the city centre for a hassle-free shopping experience! Stores these as Marks & Spencer, Boots, Clarks, Top Shop, New Look, Next, River Island, W H Smith, BHS, Argos, Monsoon, Clinton Cards, PC World, Laura Ashley, Accessorize and Mamas & Papas as well as multitudinous cafes and restaurants, including McDonalds, Pizza Hut and Starbucks may be found at Monks Cross.

Bus services in York are exquisite, but if you don't need to use one of the myriads Park & Ride opportunities around the metropolis, why not try an entertaining alternative - the Moorsbus. Thanks to the Moorsbus, you can relax and uncover the North York Moors whatever the weather. Go over to the Moors National Park for interactive exhibitions, superb wildlife presentations, indoor & outdoor play spaces and walks & trails or delight in the finest view in England at the Sutton Bank National Park. Moorsbus services also run from surrounding municipals and are available from Easter to October.

York is the perfect municipality for young and bygone alike and there are more than enough draw to quench the whole family. In the cities and villages, independent retailers sit alongside galleries displaying arts and crafts of those inspired by the attractive countryside, while welcoming pubs with roaring fires and local ale are found on every corner.