Adventures in York, UK: Exploring the Harry Potter Connection

Over the weekend, we visited the City of York, which is situated in the north of Yorkshire, UK. It was a lovely sunny morning as our day began walking around the perimeter of York Minster, one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Northern Europe that has stood for nearly 1400 years, dating back to the year 625. As we approached the Minster, we could see its towering spires and stained glass windows. Source: https://visityork.org/blog/7-surprising-facts-about-york-minster.

We then headed over to a vintage car show that was taking place nearby. This event had an impressive collection of classic cars from different eras. I know little about cars but appreciate their design and how things have advanced over the years. In the background, we could see York Castle standing on the mound.

York Castle is a defensive structure constructed by William the Conqueror in 1068 to assert control over northern England. Notably, it features Clifford's Tower, built in stone during the reign of Henry III in the 13th century. Today, York Castle is managed by the English Heritage. Source:https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/cliffords-tower-york/history-and-stories/history/

York is also known for its medieval walls, which stretch approximately 2 miles. The walls are a series of towers and gates. During our visit, we just did a partial walk along these walls, enjoying the views from the top.

If you enjoy shopping, visiting 'The Shambles' market street is a must. This popular area is filled with local traders offering everything from artisan foods to handmade crafts, while you enjoy live music and talented street entertainers nearby. Additionally, there is a dedicated Harry Potter shop. It's a quirky little street that transports you back in time. Arriving early in the day is advisable, as it can become very crowded.

We managed to find 'The Shop That Must Not Be Named,' which is dedicated to Harry Potter. I'm not a fan of Harry Potter, but I appreciate that others are.

During our visit, we even caught a glimpse of what appeared to be Harry Potter outside the shop, looking as if he had just returned from a game of Quidditch. 😁

No visit to York would be complete without exploring the York Railway Museum. It is an ideal place for those wanting free activities in the area, especially if you are on a budget. It is situated conveniently next to York train station, and offers visitors an interesting opportunity to explore the history of rail transport in the area without an admission fee. You don't get much for free these days.

When it comes to dining, York does not disappoint. The city has a good range of restaurants that cater to various tastes and budgets. From traditional British food to international cuisine, there are plenty of options for food lovers to enjoy.

Overall, York is a really interesting city rich in English culture, lots of history, nice architecture and of course shopping! With attractions like 'The Shambles', various museums, and a variety of restaurants all within short distances from one another, it's easy to see why so many people are drawn to this gem of a city.