Commissioned by William the Conqueror and consecrated in 1092, the huge gothic towers of Lincoln Cathedral have been dominating the city’s skyline for nearly a thousand years. Taking a guided tour is the best way to learn more about the architecture and rich history.
It’s a short stroll from the cathedral across the cobbles to the towering entrance of Lincoln Castle. Home to an original copy of the Magna Carta, the chance to see one of the world’s most important documents first-hand should not be missed.
A privately owned Elizabethan Mansion with stunning gardens, Doddington Hall was built in 1600 and is unique in that it has never been sold or cleared out since. The Hall is a 15 minute taxi ride from Lincoln centre and its website lists opening days and times.
Truly awe-inspiring, York Minster is one of the most beautiful gothic cathedrals in the world and one of the largest examples of medieval architecture in Northern Europe. The stunning stained glass on display is a real highlight, as is the climb to the top of the central tower, for a magnificent bird’s eye view of the city.
A gem amongst English stately homes, Castle Howard is a majestic house surrounded by lush gardens. Splendidly maintained, the house’s ornate rooms are filled with antiques and offer stunning vistas of the surrounding countryside. A bus runs directly from York city to Castle Howard.
An open-top bus tour gives a great insight into the sights and attractions that tell the story of York’s 2,000 years of history. There are 22 stops across the city and there is an audio guide in 9 languages. The bus stops at all of the key attractions, including: York Minster, York Dungeon, Clifford’s Tower and the city walls.
The York Pass includes entry to over 30 top attractions in Yorkshire, such as museums, castles, galleries, dining out or entertainment.
Attractions include Castle Howard, York Minster, Clifford’s Tower, Yorkshire Air Museum and many more.
Raised up above the city on a rocky promontory, the Norman church is a sight to behold. Founded in 1093, the building has seen hundreds of years of political, social and religious intrigue, and more recently found fame when the cloisters doubled as Hogwarts in the Harry Potter films. Tours of the cathedral are available.
Standing side by side with the cathedral, the ancient castle forms the other part of this unique and fascinating World Heritage site. Now home to University of Durham students, the grand site is best explored on a guided tour.
Just a short walk from the bustling market, the medieval Crook Hall dates back to the 13th century. A place of ‘history, romance and beauty’, laid-back living is the order of the day here, exploring the rooms and idyllic gardens before stopping for a cream tea in the courtyard café. Crook Hall is closed on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.
Presiding over the city from its lofty seat atop a rocky cliff, Edinburgh Castle is the city’s most iconic attraction, wowing visitors with its impressive views, legendary 1 o’clock gun salute and dazzling display of Scottish Crown Jewels.
Used by The Queen and the Royal family for state visits and holidays for more than 40 years, The Royal Yacht Britannia is now berthed in the harbour of Leith. The no 22 bus from Princes Street stops here.
This fascinating guided tour reveals the vaults hidden beneath Edinburgh’s South Bridge and the darker side of the 18th Century boom years.
Edinburgh Dungeon is a thrilling attraction that offers 11 live action shows and 2 underground rides! It displays the city’s terrifying past for all to see, hear and smell, using chillingly amusing characters to bring stories to life.
