Yorkshire is legendary for it's history and hospitality and you will spot both in excess in the elegant conurbation of York. The Romans were contracted for building the roads, the Saxons set-up villages and fields and the Normans left their mark in the form of amazing and unique architecture. This wasn't always easy for the humans of York and has doubtlessly supported to make them the resilient and positive members of public they are present.

Castle Howard is based 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 neighborhood daily between March and October revealing the secrets of the gardens and the architecture. Castle Howard also offers six unique shops - an award-winning farm shop, chocolate shop, plant middle, a bookshop and two gift shops - as well as a restaurant and cafe.

A trip to Yorkshire wouldn't be complete without a frequent to Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal Water Garden. Explore the impressive ruins of the greater complete Cistercian abbeys in Britain and explore for yourself the life of a antiquated monk. Wander from the dramatic Abbey into the Georgian pleasure grounds of Studley Royal's ornamental gardens, woodland and deer park. Stroll bordering on 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 full programme of family activities and events is available through the year, including storytelling, guided tours, open air theatre and fancy clothe parades. There is also a play area, workshops, tea-room and gift shop.

There is no shortage of High Street stores and shopping centres in York, but if you are after something a little variant, a trip to the well-known Mouseman middle in Kilburn might be just what you are searching for. The magnificently restored village joiner's shop is crammed chock-full of unusual furniture and smaller items such as breadboards, judge's gavels and serviette holders, better of which carry an adorable hand-carved mouse in some shape or form. The Pickering Antique middle is another treasure trove for collectors. Over 45 dealers sell a wide range of goods including paintings, furniture, china and porcelain, brass and copperware, postcards, books, clocks and old toys. Admission is free and opening times are Monday to Saturday 10 am to 5 pm, Sunday 11 am to 5 pm.

Travel by the North Yorkshire Moors Railway to drop by the seaside town of Whitby for a traditional British holiday experience. Take a break in the Tea Room at Grosmont Station - a genuine 1950's railway junction - pinpoint fabulous souvenirs in the two Gift Shops, look around the engine sheds and view the locomotives under restoration. Goathland or "Aidensfield" as it is famous to fans of Yorkshire TV's Heartbeat promotes a refurbished Warehouse Tea Room with authentic furniture and findings, restored coal drops and a cattle dock to recreate the old North Eastern Railway of 1922. Take time out to enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the 1912-style station of Levisham, which is surrounded by walks and wildlife.

There is something for everyone in York - from memorable houses and choice gardens to arousing outdoor events and award-winning restaurants and no matter where you go in York, you are bound to show a fabulous day out, whatever the weather!