Feel it’s time to take a mini break to enjoy the last of the warmer days? The Team at Vitora are setting off from bustling Manchester to the intriguing town of York, to do just that! This drive (about 71 miles) will only take about an hour-and-a-half, so it’s the perfect trip for a quick weekender or relaxed mid-week “time out”, that’ll get you out of your busy, everyday life and right into the heart and soul of this world-famous and characterful town.
The all-important question of vehicle and tyres
Looking and feeling just a little bit sporty with plenty of street appeal may just get you in the mood for the drive – like the combination of a Mazda CX5 with Vitora StreetLife tyres. The fact is, however, that Vitora has you covered for whatever your drive, so just make sure your tyres are checked, inflated and ready to roll!
A few directions
From the city centre or other Manchester address, find your way to the M62, and then the A64 and follow the signs onto the A1036 and into York. You may like to check online before you head off for details of any roadworks or delays.
A bit about destination York
One of the best things about York (and there are many!) is that while being rich in history, personality and intrigue, it’s also a great destination to just arrive, enjoy some attentive hospitality – and do as little as possible! From its Medieval stone wall and renowned York Minster posing impressively over the town, to winding cobbled streets and Viking attractions-of-old, in York you’ll discover every experience is awesome and inspiring. Plus, with a myriad of options of where to eat, stay, shop, walk or ride — you can truly make this adventure your own.
What to do
From the time you arrive, you’ll be swept up in the wonderful spirit of York, its architecture, little cafes and eateries, interesting shops and historic sites. If you choose to park your car for the weekend and explore on foot, it won’t take you long to get your bearings and find your way to some of these top highlights which you won’t want to miss.
- York Minster
A must when in York – even if just to admire this magnificent 800-year-old cathedral from the outside. Take a tour to learn more about its history (including its connections to Viking times) or a Tower Trip and climb the 275 steps for some glorious views.
- The Shambles
Take a walk through the magical, cobbled street “The Shambles” in the centre of York, with its overhanging historic buildings. In times past this centrepiece of York was a street of butcher shops – now it’s home to shops of jewellery, novelties, chocolate, fudge, pubs, eateries and more.
- Walk the City Walls
Surrounding the city, the Medieval stone walls wind a distance of 3.4km with numerous entry gateways and views abounding. In the right season, you may find the grassy slopes leading up to the walls covered in daffodils!
- Chocolate, chocolate and more chocolate!
It’s no secret that York has a long-standing history when it comes to some of the world’s best-known chocolate brands! Join the Chocolate Story trail to find out all the sweet and “chocolate-y” secrets this town has to offer – taste, test and take some home!
- Jorvik Viking Centre
Go on a ride through Viking times which brings York’s past connection with the Vikings to life, including displays of rare archaeological finds.
- National Railway Museum
Filled with fascinating history including that of renowned Stephenson’s Rocket (built to transport passengers on the Liverpool to Manchester Railway), this museum will transport you back in time. You can even take a steam train ride (if you time it right!) – check their website for dates and times.
- Clifford’s Tower
Something you don’t want to miss … the tower is what remains of York castle built by none other than William the Conqueror! Spectacularly positioned with picture-perfect views of York and the surrounds.
- Take a Cruise on River Ouse
For a different (watery) vantage point of York, enjoy the views of some of York’s best sites and get to know its historical highlights from the comfort of a cruise.
- Shopping!
You can’t go to York without being enticed into at least one or two of the unique stores you come across as you explore the town. If you’re not in the market for a piece of exquisite jewellery (of which there is plenty), you may find a quirky card, novelty, gift or chocolate masterpiece to take home. You’ll also have the convenience of many High street stores… just in case you’re in a shopping mood.
- Parks and green spaces
Both within and around York, you’ll find some beautiful gardens and open spaces for the kids to play – or where you can just walk, breathe and relax! Appropriately named, there’s Breezy Knees Gardens (20 acres of gardens), Goddards House and Gardens (once home to the Terry chocolate family) or Rowntree Park, to name a few.
Where to eat and stay
From hotels big and small, boutique B&B’s and guest houses to rustic farm stays – finding the accommodation that’s right for you in York will be a breeze (but don’t forget to book ahead – York is in demand)! In addition to an abundance of cafes, pubs and eateries, The Shambles market and food court offers some delicious fare. If the cooler weather has already set in, you’ll have no problem finding a fireplace – set yourself up in a window seat with a good book and Yorkshire ale and watch the magical world of York go by!
Anything else I need to know?
What are you waiting for? Just remember to check your vehicle and pump up those tyres before you set off – and safe travels!
