Today we decided that we would hit York city centre and see some of the typical tourist attractions that people go to York for.  First on the list was the Jorvik viking centre followed by the Castle and the museum.

We managed to arrived at around 1000 and there was already a queue at the Viking centre, which was expected however it was quickly moving and we were in the centre before we knew it.  Now some of these things are very expensive however we were thoroughly impressed as this was only £8.50 for an adult.  The tour starts with a time journey through time in the time capsule, which takes you back to the year 866AD when the Vikings claimed York.  This ‘Time Capsule’ wobbles and moves so you feel like you are moving (perhaps not through time but still it feels like your moving).  Then there is a monorail trip through the city of Jorvik (York) in the year 866AD.  This is really good and there is commentary in whatever language you want (within reason).  This part is very well done with 6 people to each coach around the mono-rail.  Then after that the centre is yours to wander around and see all the exhibitions which range from the life of the vikings and what they ate and drink to what they found when the dig took places in the 80s in York, excavating the remains of the Vikings in York.  Well worth a viist.

We then wandered to the other side of the city and found Cliffords tower.  The  picture is me at the top of the tower, which you can see top right of the photo.  When you get to the top you can see all of York and you appreciate what a good vantage point that must have been for the residents of the castle, waiting for their invaders to come over the lands nearby.

Opposite Cliffords Tower is the castle Museum which gives you a glimpse of life through the years in York.  There are some really interesting displays of houses and life through the 20th century and you find yourself thing “I remember those from” and “such and body used to have them in their front room”.  Very amusing and it makes you appreciate just how far technology and quality of life has come in the last 60 years or so.  Also seeing behind the desk in the old school made a change from the day job.

After this is was rest and relaxation back at the hotel before heading out for a meal at Pizza Hit in York.  Again very nice and a nice end to a lovely day.  Tomorrow it will be the air museum and then off home.