Yorkshire is a angelic county with open moors, dales and mountainous landscapes divided by valleys and ancient towns. York is the region's capital, in Roman times 2nd only in consequence to London and is still very much the heart of Yorkshire. It has survived the Romans, the Saxons and the Normans and carries multitudinous mysteries and secrets in its walls and tunnels.

Fairfax House in Castlegate, York is the good-looking Georgian municipal House in England. Bought in 1760 as a dowry for Anne Fairfax, the only surviving child of Viscount Fairfax, the family turned to York's largest distinguished architect - John Carr - to create the interior. To complement the interior design, superb examples of paintings, silver and glass are distributed around the house and period displays are arranged in the eating room and kitchen. The grow is a successful blend of classic style and conservation, to be enjoyed by everyone keen on British legacy.

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 could be booked by individuals or groups. Snainton Riding centre in Snainton is a traditional riding school set in appealing countryside. Having been established for nearly 40 years, the school shows off 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.

There is no shortage of High Street stores and shopping centres in York, but if you are after something a little diverse, a trip to the well known Mouseman middle in Kilburn might be just what you are looking for. The divinely restored village joiner's shop is crammed packed like sardines of unusual furniture and smaller items these as breadboards, judge's gavels and serviette holders, larger 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 ancient toys. Admission is free and opening times are Monday to Saturday 10 am to 5 pm, Sunday 11 am to 5 pm.

Gain from the legions Park & Ride opportunities around York - Rawcliffe drinking house (Clifton Moor), Monks Cross (Huntington), Grimston public house (Hull Road), Askham bar (Tadcaster Road) or McArthur Glen Designer Outlet. Scarborough also suggests four Park & Ride sites offering high superb buses which get you to the seafront and city centre in a matter of minutes. An elegant alternative is to use the Moorsbus network to relax and adore the beauty of the North York Moors National Park, its idyllic villages and inducement.

York is the perfect blend of ancient and new. It is a safe home for pensioners, a distraction borough for students, a fascinating trip for historians and a paradise for shoppers.