Description
Still encircled by its ancient walls, York was one of the great cities of the medieval world. The city is dominated by the soaring pinnacles of York Minster, the finest Gothic church in northern Europe. From its narrow streets, lively with chic cafés and specialist shops, to trips on its tree-lined river, York is a treasure house for visitors. It offers an unrivalled choice of museums and galleries including the renowned Jorvik Viking Centre, National Railway Museum and the Castle Museum. With so much to see and do here, York is known as 'the city to suit all tastes'. Enjoy an included visit to the breathtakingly stately Castle Howard, a work of theatrical splendour set in the rolling Howardian Hills. One of the world's most beautiful buildings, the house is instantly recognisable from its starring role in the 1980s TV series 'Brideshead Revisited'.
Itinerary
Highlights
- Hotel for 3 nights with breakfast & dinner- Porterage- Tea/coffee after dinner- Entrance to Castle Howard - House & Gardens- Return transfers and free time in Medieval York
Itinerary
DAY 1 - From your chosen joining point your feeder vehicle will take you to the designated interchange point where your holiday begins. After joining your holiday coach, you travel north, stopping for the opportunity of lunch or refreshments. Continue to your hotel located on the outskirts of York late afternoon to check in for 3 nights DBB\n\nDAY 2 - A day in Medieval York - Magnificent York is a beautiful compact riverside city famous for its Roman, Viking and Medieval heritage dating back 2000 years. Within the ancient walls and twisting atmospheric streets you will find an array of sights to discover such as the iconic York Minster, Jorvik Viking Centre and a host of museums, shops, charming tea rooms and traditional pubs. Your driver may be able to offer an optional guided city tour.\n\nDAY 3 - Castle Howard - Just 15 miles from York stands Castle Howard, one of the nation's finest stately homes. The house is full of treasures, fine art and furniture collections - the magnificent Great Hall with its soaring Corinthian pilasters, Pre-Raphaelite stained glass in the chapel and corridors lined with classical antiquities. Enjoy the day exploring the house at leisure on a free-flow basis with knowledgeable guides in each room who regale visitors with fascinating stories of family members across the centuries. Outside the Castle Howard landscape brings out the colour and drama of the season, whatever the weather. With 1,000 acres of parkland to explore, Castle Howard is a haven of peace and tranquility with extensive woodland walks, temples, lakes and fountains. The monumental landscape offers breath-taking views at every turn. There is good access to most parts of the house including a stairlift if needed which takes visitors to the main floor.\n\nDAY 4 - Setting off this morning for the journey south with an interesting stop at lunch time.
Venue Information
Mercure York Fairfield Manor Hotel
Set in an 18th century manor house in 6 acres of private grounds, this 4* hotel combines Georgian elegance with contemporary style. Although just a few miles from the centre of historic York, the hotel offers a tranquil location. All 89 comfortable bedrooms have TV, complimentary high speed WiFi, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. There is a Brasserie restaurant as well as a bar. There is a lift to all floors.