Yorkshire is a alluring county with open moors, dales and mountainous landscapes divided by valleys and ancient settlements. York is the region's capital, in Roman times second only in influence to London and is still very much the heart of Yorkshire. It has survived the Romans, the Saxons and the Normans and carries many mysteries and secrets in its walls and tunnels.
The Yorkshire Air Museum at Elvington, York is based on the former WWII Bomber Command Station of RAF Elvington and retains the authentic feeling of the period, with myriads fascinating exhibits housed in restored wartime erections. The museum is a unique memorial to all the Allied aircrews of Bomber Command, including French, Canadian, Australian, etc. Don't miss the battle of Britain Service on the 14th September, Remembrance Sunday on the 9th November or Santa's Plane in December! The Museum is open every day from 10 am to 5 pm (3.30 pm in winter) and admission starts from just ?3 for children under 15.
A trip to Yorkshire wouldn't be complete without a drop in to Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal Water Garden. Explore the grand ruins of the largest complete Cistercian abbeys in Britain and explore for yourself the life of a dark ages monk. Wander from the dramatic Abbey into the Georgian gratification grounds of Studley Royal's ornamental gardens, woodland and deer park. Stroll at the edge of reflections of temples in elegant formal canals and lakes and come across the follies high on the valley side. Look out for Anne Boleyn's seat, the Octagon Tower and the Temples of Fame and Piety. A gorged programme of family activities and events is available through the year, including storytelling, guided tours, open air theatre and fancy dress parades. There is also a play area, workshops, tea-room and gift shop.
Wish for free parking, late night shopping and a jumbo selection of grand High Street stores? Look in Monks Cross Shopping Park just a sparse minutes from the city centre for a hassle-free shopping experience! Stores such 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 myriads cafes and restaurants, including McDonalds, Pizza Hut and Starbucks can be found at Monks Cross.
Bus services in York are meritorious, but if you don't thirst to use one of the many Park & Ride opportunities around the conurbation, why not try an compelling alternative - the Moorsbus. Thanks to the Moorsbus, you may relax and observe the North York Moors whatever the weather. Look up the Moors National Park for interactive exhibitions, superb wildlife presentations, indoor & outdoor play spaces and walks & trails or delight in the good-looking 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 blend of bygone and new. It is a safe locale for pensioners, a festivity municipality for students, a fascinating trip for historians and a paradise for shoppers.