Vikings, Minsters, and Magic

Highlights

Love Viking and medieval history – with a sprinkling of medieval magic and wizardry thrown in? Gorgeous gardens, fascinating museums, and soaring cathedrals? York, England is a cultural and historical treasure whose sites can be explored thoroughly on a 6-day getaway.

Here’s a sample itinerary for a six day trip to York, that could easily be added to another UK itinerary, but we’ll tailor a plan specifically for your desires and timeframe. Contact us for specific pricing and details.

Day 1

Arriving by train or car, you’ll head to your 3-star lodging within York’s medieval walls. Once checked in, meet your personal guide for a 2-hour walking intro to York’s geography and history. Afterward, indulge in afternoon tea at Betty’s Cafe Tea Rooms, Belmont Room location, around the corner from York Minster. Enjoy a quiet evening.

Day 2

This morning, you’ll see hidden roman baths before releasing your inner Viking at Jorvik Viking Centre. Afterward, enjoy lunch aboard the Captain James Cook, and learn more of the history of this charming walled city while you cruise the River Ouse. Then explore Barley Hall, a well-restored home of medieval gentry, before wandering through the Merchant Adventurers Hall nearby – an audio guide is available detailing the fascinating history. Have a well-deserved dinner on your own and sleep at your lodging.

Day 3

Today begins with a leisurely breakfast, followed by city wall walking: learn all about The War of the Roses by first learning about the white rose side and the king-in-the-carpark at the Richard III Experience within Monk Bar, one of the gates set in the walls. After a walk along the wall, learn about the red rose side and Henry VIII’s father (the last king of England to win his throne on the field of battle) at the Henry VII Experience. After lunch on your own, head to the Yorkshire Museum and walk through the  museum’s exhibits, which includes a fine display of Roman antiquities. Afterward, ramble around the Museum Gardens and St. Mary’s Abbey ruins, a truly enchanting wonderland by the river. In the evening, savor a bang-up meal at the Michelin Bib Gourmand-winning Skosh.

Day 4

After a hearty breakfast, you’ll head to York Minster – gazing in awe at the soaring architecture. The optional bell tower climb (additional fee applies) will give you not only a workout but also the best views in York. After, walk through the Shambles streetscape on the way to York Castle Museum and Clifford’s Tower. In the museum, you can walk a Victorian street and experience life through the decades. Clifford’s Tower offers stunning views from the top. 

Day 5

Today you’ll explore the National Railway Museum – an absorbing collection of railway-related artifacts, including the Mallard, the world’s fastest steam locomotive. Afterwards, head to York’s Chocolate Story, a sweet little museum detailing cocoa’s transformation from bean to bar, York’s famous brands, and more on the guided tour. Take a final wander down the cobblestone streets, enjoy a dinner of your choice, and perhaps a nightcap at House of Trembling Madness – an ale house since medieval times.

Day 6

After your final breakfast, enjoy one more walk about before bidding “fare-thee-well” to this charming city.

Price

From $1299 for a solo traveler, not including airfare, but we’re happy to book that as well!

As always, Dragon in Your Pocket’s pricing is transparent, with no hidden fees. As such, pricing for this trip is based on one person per room. Per person price is typically less with 2 or more persons per room.