My first port of call upon arriving in York was the massive, awe-inspiring York Minster, which has been standing for over 800 years. The exterior alone is an amazing sight!
The Minster is divided into three parts: the main body, the Central Tower, and the Undercroft - which houses a museum about the Minster and its history. I would explore all three during my visit!
First of all, I took my time looking around the heart of the Minster. It is filled to the brim with statues, stained-glass windows and stunning architecture. The famous Great East Window was undergoing restoration when I visited, but there were still many magnificent things for me to see.
After taking a quick break to sit down and rest...
... I moved on to the second area of interest - the Central Tower. Several health warning signs surrounded the doorway, warning visitors that climbing the Tower wasn't a suitable activity for those with vertigo, heart trouble, and various other conditions. Luckily, I'm in perfect health, so I decided to be brave and attempt the climb.
To ascend the Tower, you have to walk up several narrow, spiralling stone stairways. It is something of a claustrophobic atmosphere, and walking up so many steps can be tiring, but thankfully, you get something of a break halfway through - when you have to cross an outside "bridge" in order to reach the next section. You may not be at the top of the Minster yet, but the bridge itself offers some breathtaking views of its own.
Eventually, I completed the climb, and reached the top of the Tower. The winds up there were very strong indeed - I had to keep a tight hold on my fedora, and I even worried I might blow away myself! However, it was worth it for the views.
I even got a badge celebrating my achievement!
After safely descending the stone staircases, I ended my trip to the Minster with a walk through the Undercroft. One artefact I found very interesting was The York Gospels - a book that's over 1000 years old! I also learned about Constantine - the first Christian Roman Emperor, who actually became Emperor whilst he was in York. I later spotted his statue outside.
Before heading home, I had a walk around the city to take in more of its history-filled atmosphere. I stopped by Clifford's Tower, which was built in the 13th Century, and had a walk along the Roman walls surrounding York, mainly around the Barker Tower area.
My brief visit to York barely scratches the surface of what it has to offer - it has more museums and exhibits than you can shake a stick at! If you ever get the chance, go there yourself!
Until next time!
- Indigo
