Yorkshire is distinguished for it's history and hospitality and you will locate both in excess in the enticing place of York. The Romans were answerable 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 folk of York and has probably helped to make them the resilient and positive members of public they are now.

The Yorkshire Air Museum at Elvington, York is based on the former WWII Bomber Command Station of RAF Elvington and retains the authentic feel of the period, with numerous fascinating exhibits housed in restored wartime erections. The museum is a unique memorial to every one of the Allied aircrews of Bomber Command, including French, Canadian, Australian, etc. Don't miss the fight 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.

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 middle in Snainton is a traditional riding school set in charming countryside. Having been established for nearly 40 years, the school gasconades qualified instructions, exceptional facilities and well-educated horses. If you would prefer to explore by bike or boat, contact Purple Mountain Bike centre & 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.

Forget one-mode systems, extortionate parking charges and tedious traffic jams! Head for Monks Cross Shopping Park or Clifton Moor Retail Park, both easily accessible from the A1237 York Outer Ring Road. Every one of major High Street stores are represented there, including Marks & Spencer, Boots, Monsoon, Clarks, Top Shop, New Look, Next, River Island, W H Smith, BHS, PC World, Dunelm Mill, Wilkinson's, Wickes, Tesco's, Matalan, Roseby's, Pets at Home and Argos. There are also myriads restaurants, cafes, entertainment complexes and fitness centres to select from. Thousands of free parking bays and late night shopping will help to make a trip to Monks Cross or Clifton Moor a distraction and fruitful experience for the whole family.

Travel by the North Yorkshire Moors Railway to look in on the seaside city 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, visit the engine sheds and view the locomotives under restoration. Goathland or "Aidensfield" as it is noted to fans of Yorkshire TV's Heartbeat suggests 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 appreciate the peace and tranquillity of the 1912-style station of Levisham, which is surrounded by walks and wildlife.

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