Book of Ideas 2021 - Make It York
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
Book of Ideas
2021
Introduction The communications team at Visit York have put together this press pack to provide inspiration for journalists, travel writers and influencers who are looking for fresh ideas and reasons to visit and write about York. You may already know that over 20 visitor attractions in York are located within the historic city walls including the world famous JORVIK Viking Centre, the iconic York Minster and the National Railway Museum. York is a well-known historical gem, with the history of the city spanning over 2000 years from its establishment by Romans, to then being invaded by the Vikings, as well as its position as the medieval Capital of the North. York also has an extensive chocolate history with Terry and Rowntree beginning their sweet journeys here with Chocolate Orange and Kit Kat. It is a small city with so much packed in, much of which has already been written about, but with a huge amount more remaining to be discovered. We hope this pack will help you inspire your readers and viewers to choose York for their next adventure. 2020 has been a challenging year for the tourism industry and all destinations across the globe. Following the impact of COVID-19 and the national lockdowns, we are now working on a tourism recovery plan for the city. Our #LoveYork campaign celebrates the great tourism businesses in York, their creativity, resilience and superb world-class offer. We hope you will be inspired to visit York and that you have a wonderful stay in the city. We’d be delighted to assist you with your accommodation arrangements and provide you with York Passes for you to explore the city’s attractions. We look forward to welcoming you soon! With best wishes, Amy and Ana in the Visit York communications team. comms@makeityork.com 02 visityork.org visityork.org 03
News and New
Openings
A modern cosmopolitan city with deep historic
roots, York is not static and every year brings
new openings and developments. See below
information for all of York’s additions in 2021
-from new restaurants and hotels, to rejuvenation
projects and activities. SANDBURN HALL HOTEL
OPENING 24 MAY 2021
MALMAISON HOTEL AND TERRACE
FUSION RESTAURANT AND BAR
THE HOLE IN WAND
OPENING 17 MAY 2021
OPENING 10 JUNE 2021
The 24th May has been set for the The Hole In Wand Wizard Golf is
public opening of Sandburn Hall Hotel, Malmaison is breathing new life into a York’s new immersive experience in
one of the most eagerly awaited hotel converted landmark in York, the Aviva the Coppergate Shopping Centre.
opening in the UK this year according insurance building. The hotel is due to Inside the old Wizard pub you will be
to national tourist board VisitBritain. open on the 17th May 2021 and will taken on a 9 hole mini golf adventure
As announced late last year, Sandburn offer stylish bedrooms and modern to search for the missing Gargoyle
Hall Hotel, which lies on a 1,000 acre interior design alongside a separate Grobblenook, and includes a trip
estate just seven miles east of York, Sky Bar named Sora, in addition to through a magical portal, take on
will have forty country-style bedrooms, the iconic Chez Mal Brasserie & Bar. bubbling cauldrons and avoiding the
including two luxurious suites. It will The hotel has 150 guest bedrooms, flying golf clubs! At the end of your
open to the public on 24th May – event space for up to 150, a spa, a fully magical journey you will find out
just 7 days after the UK’s lockdown equipped gym an on-site Starbucks. whether you are a Basilisk, Serpent,
restrictions are further eased – and Situated on the corner of Rougier Unicorn or Wizard and everyone who
it already has bookings for every Street, the hotel is a stone’s throw completes the course will get a potion
weekend through the late Spring and away from of some of the city’s most to enjoy. There is also a chance to try
Summer on its books. A design-led famous attractions, including York Butterscotch Beer, a pint of Wizard
approach by award-winning designer Minster and the historic York City walls. brew or mix a slush phial in our café
Rachel McLane, crafted country style, York train station is a few minutes along with Wizard Dogs and Uni-pop-
natural light, sustainability and an walk away. Designers have taken corn. To start your magical journey visit
active lifestyle (including walking and inspiration from the city’s industrial www.theholeinwand.com and
cycling trails on the estate) are at the heritage and brutalist architecture, @HoleInWand on Twitter, Instagram
heart of the hotel’s ethos, and a wide mixing concrete and moody elements and Facebook. Book media visits with
range of leisure packages for guests, with softer textures and confectionery ben@thepotionscauldron.com
championing York and the wider touch points, drawing on York’s famous
North Yorkshire area, will be on offer alumni including the Rowntree and the
to capitalise on this year’s expected Terry families.
staycation trend.
04 visityork.org visityork.org 05
IMPOSSIBLE WONDERBAR AND TEA classic cocktails have been rejuvenated inspirations from the sea, forest and all play the correct note, volume and and local landmark, conserving and to climb two spiral staircases which
ROOMS YORK with added flair and theatre to countryside. pitch. repairing the tower to protect it have been inaccessible for centuries.
tantalise the senses. Cocktails include for generations to come. Clifford’s Specialists will also conserve the chapel
Impossible Wonderbar and Tea Rooms a sumptuously rich Terry’s chocolate THE GRAND ORGAN RETURNS TO Experience its unique sound during the Tower is perched atop the mighty roof and interior to allow the public to
York is the latest modern addition orange cocktail, an eye catching colour YORK MINSTER cathedral’s regular services and marvel castle mound raised by William the access it again, cleaning the stonework,
to iconic St Helen’s square, with the changing gin cocktail and a refreshing at the craftsmanship which has gone Conqueror in 1068. It was the keep replacing structural joists to support
heart of York’s buzzing shopping lychee and hibiscus concoction Hear York Minster’s Grand Organ fill into the once-a-century refurbishment. and chief strongpoint of York Castle, the roof and replacing tiles to make
and hospitality scene. This Grade complete with a rubber duck! the cathedral’s awe inspiring spaces for A programme of events to celebrate one of the greatest fortresses in it water-tight. The intricate plaques
II listed building is a hidden gem the first time since 2018 as the £2m, the organ’s return will be announced medieval England. The castle served above the entrance door, which show
within the stunning twists and turns .FISH&FOREST RESTAURANT once-in-a-century project to refurbish later this year. See as the backdrop for events of national the coats of arms of Charles I and
of ye olde cobbled streets. Situated the instrument is completed. www.yorkminster.org for full details. and international significance. The Henry Clifford, will also be repaired
within the famously beautiful Terry’s Fish&Forest offers the quality of a In autumn 2020 the scaffolding which tower is a stunning historic building, and conserved. Though the tower is
chocolate orange building, the new fine dining restaurant in a space of has surrounded the organ for nearly A NEW PERSPECTIVE ON and this project will make it easier now likely to have to remain closed to
incarnation paying homage to the a relaxed, casual bistro. It is run by three years was removed, revealing CLIFFORD’S TOWER to move around the tower and will visitors until the project is completed
historic building, notably the “Terry’s” a Yorkshireman and a Frenchman, the newly restored ornate organ case provide new interpretation to tell the in summer 2021 - to protect the public
inscription still prominent the stunning friends and foodies Stephen Andrews and its decorative pipes and the 15th The fascinating story of Clifford’s Tower tower’s fascinating story. Exposed to and the English Heritage specialist
front windows, showcasing Corinthian (Restaurantier and Chef patron) century stone Pulpitum – known as will finally be told thanks to a major the elements for more than 300 years, team on site - regular updates on
columns and ballroom style dining and and Yohan Barthelemy (Restaurant the Kings’ Screen – which sits below investment by English Heritage at the historic fabric of the tower needs the project will be provided on the
drinking areas. The historic building Manager) who pride themselves on it. The organ, which dates from the one of York’s most important heritage specialist care. The tower’s historic Clifford’s Tower website and Facebook
has had a face lift to include a tea using local produce from sustainable 1830s, returned to use during worship sites. The project at Clifford’s Tower stonework will be repaired, including page.
room, restaurant and bar, offering a sources. The restaurant offers a in March 2021 following a period of will do justice to both the history and the walls, arrow slits and fireplaces, and
beautifully crafted central island where constantly changing menu which takes voicing to make sure its 5,000+ pipes the experience of visiting this national works will take place to allow visitors
06 visityork.org visityork.org 07
THE GUARDIANS OF YORK – PUBLIC RAILWAY HEROES AT NATIONAL ‘REUNITED: LIFTING LOCKDOWN
STREET ART INSTALLATION RAILWAY MUSEUM WITH GEORGIANS’ AT FAIRFAX
9 APRIL – 9 JULY 2021 HOUSE
The National Railway Museum has 17 MAY – 14 NOVEMBER 2021
The York BID have collaborated with launched a new exhibition that
Art of Protest Projects to create a celebrates the vital role played This brand-new exhibition, installed
Street Art Exhibition celebrating by railway key workers during the throughout Fairfax House’s stunning
keyworkers from York. The aim of this Covid-19 pandemic. Named Railway historic rooms, plans to celebrate
project is to celebrate the ‘guardians’ Heroes, the exhibition recognises the the end of lockdown Georgian style.
of the city, who helped keep York selfless achievements of 16 people Each room in the house explores a
moving during a time when the city from across the rail industry who have different longed for post-lockdown
(and the world) came to a standstill played an essential part in the country’s activity, whether that is being reunited
during Covid-19. Eleven essential Covid-19 response. From transporting with friends and family, having the
workers, all of them York residents, vital medical supplies to setting up opportunity to travel, to rekindle a
told their story of working through the Nightingale hospitals and even sewing romance placed on pause, to celebrate
upheaval created by the pandemic and PPE, many rail workers have gone the and dance, or simply to ditch the
had their photographs taken. These extra mile during the pandemic as well pyjamas and get all dressed up. Told
‘guardians’ range from NHS workers as working to keep passengers and from the perspective of the eighteenth
to the River Boat Rescue team. The freight moving around the clock in their century this exhibition draws on the
images have been transformed into art day jobs. The exhibition will feature 16 house’s rich and varied history, as well
by internationally acclaimed street artist portrait photographs from renowned as utilising its magnificent collections.
collective ‘The Postman’. The collective photographer Charlotte Graham. The During your visit you will learn more
chooses ‘paste-ups’ as their medium first six ‘Railway Heroes’ have starred about life in the Georgian period, from
Exhibitions and
of urban art and express themselves in a special online exhibition hosted the peculiar rituals of the marriage bed,
in the form of brightly coloured, edgy, on the National Railway Museum to their outlandish sense of fashion and
urban portraits. The ‘Guardians of York’ website from Monday 15 February, their surprisingly similar experiences
is the city’s first urban art project which with new profiles added each week. of travelling. Along the way you will
Events 2021
elevates and honours pandemic key Once national lockdown restrictions are get the chance to try out some classic
workers. They are displayed on walls lifted, a physical exhibition featuring all eighteenth century chat-up lines, learn
around the city centre for a temporary 16 people will open simultaneously at the steps to popular country dances
three month installation that invites the the National Railway Museum in York of the day and how the Georgian’s
public to celebrate the efforts of our and Locomotion in Shildon, County would have shifted their lockdown love
key workers during the pandemic. Durham handles. Throughout your journey you
York is a vibrant, exciting city full of things will encounter the one time residents
of the Fairfax House, Lady Anne and
to do on your visit. See below information Viscount Fairfax, and learn more about
their experiences of living through
for all of York’s additions in 2021 - from new an epidemic – the often very dubious
medical treatments available to them
and returning events, to new exhibitions and and the parallels their experiences
share with our own.
extensions to the public’s favourite displays.
08 visityork.org visityork.org 09
LOVE SEASON AT YORK THEATRE stage. Multi award-winning, BAFTA- the Soviet Union to meet his old MI6 works in response, including one miracles of one of Northern England’s exhibition, which will be complemented
ROYAL nominated actress Julie Hesmondhalgh boss Kim Philby. Ralph Fiennes will created publicly during visiting hours. most significant saints. Learn about the by a sculpture trail, will focus on three
OPENING 17 MAY 2021 will star in The Greatest Play in the direct and star in the world premiere of The creation of the Peppered Moth cathedral’s five-year project starting monuments that Gibbons carved
History of the World (1-5 June), while In T S Eliot’s Four Quartets (26-31 July). mezzotint, Gillespie’s largest to date, in 2021 to conserve the 600-year-old for the cathedral, of Archbishops
A celebration of York’s creativity, solo This Time (8-9 June) will be presented is of particular relevance to Castle window, which is one of the largest Dolben, Lamplugh and Sterne,
shows featuring Ralph Fiennes and by the award-winning circus theatre SARAH GILLESPIE: MOTH AT CASTLE Howard, whose landscaped gardens surviving narrative windows in Europe placing these in the context of his life
Julie Hesmondhalgh, a new drama company Ockham’s Razor. Favourite HOWARD provide the ideal location for its own and among the finest remaining and wider work. Free with general
about writer Graham Greene and characters from the hit TV show will 29 MAY – 5 SEPTEMBER 2021 large and varied moth population. examples of the art and techniques of admission. See www.yorkminster.org
spy Kim Philby, and Strindberg’s Miss take to the stage in Twirlywoos Live! During the Industrial Revolution in the medieval glaziers and stonemasons. for full details. The exhibition is part
Julie transposed to 1940s Hong Kong (11-13 June). Also, The Snail and the British artist, Sarah Gillespie will 19th century, the species experienced Free with general admission. See of a national programme led by the
are among highlights in York Theatre Whale (2 & 3 July) will come to the present Moth at Castle Howard, a rapid evolutionary mutation, causing www.yorkminster.org for full details. Grinling Gibbons Society to mark the
Royal’s reopening season, The Love stage, inspired by Julia Donaldson and North Yorkshire, an ongoing project it to turn black. The Peppered Moths’ tercentenary. For further details visit:
Season. The theatre will reopen their Axel Scheffler’s much-loved picture that, for the past two years, has unusual colour change saw it darken NEW EXHIBITION AT YORK MINSTER www.grinling-gibbons.org
doors on May 17 with Love Bites, book. Red Ladder Theatre will stage seen Gillespie research, draw and in response to its habitat that became AS PART OF THE NATIONAL
celebrating local artists – poets, The Damned United (16 June), adapted engrave common English moths by increasingly polluted and soot covered, ‘GRINLING GIBBONS 300: GRAYSON PERRY: THE PRE-THERAPY
performers, singers, dancers, digital from David Peace’s novel by Anders way of highlighting their dramatic and allowing it to camouflage and escape CARVING A PLACE IN HISTORY’ YEARS AT YORK ART GALLERY
artists – who have been commissioned Lustgarten, while Strindberg’s classic devastating decline and celebrating predators. It was in industrial Yorkshire CELEBRATIONS 28 MAY - 5 SEPTEMBER 2021
to write love letters celebrating the Miss Julie (22-26 June), adapted by their overwhelming importance. The cities, close to Castle Howard, that the
return to live performances following British-Hong Kong writer Amy Ng exhibition will feature all 22 of the phenomenon was observed in 1848, a A new exhibition exploring carvings at A major new exhibition featuring the
the easing of government restrictions. will show a politically-charged story resulting mezzotints as well as a new full 10 years prior to Charles Darwin’s York Minster by the most celebrated earliest works and “lost pots” of one
Former Look North presenter Harry set in 1940s Hong Kong. Direct from work, Gillespie’s largest mezzotint to world recognised theories on natural British woodcarver of the 17th of Britain’s most well-known artists
Gration will host the evening which has the West End, Showstopper! The date. Measuring a monumental 2’ x selection. century will open in August as part is coming to York next summer. The
a “Pay What You Feel” ticket policy. Improvised Musical (30 June) will 3’, it features a Peppered Moth, and of a national programme to mark touring exhibition, developed by
The Love Season will continue with The deliver spontaneous musical comedy. marks a stark change to a process LIGHT, GLASS & STONE: the 300th anniversary of his death. the Holburne Museum in Bath, is
HandleBards recounting in their own Oliver Ford-Davies and Stephen Boxer that is normally measured in inches CONSERVING THE ST CUTHBERT Grinling Gibbons spent part of his the first to celebrate Grayson Perry’s
inimitable way the tragic tale of Romeo will star in Ben Brown’s new political and not feet. Gillespie will also live WINDOW AT YORK MINSTER early career in York, training in the earliest forays into the art world and
and Juliet (25 & 26 May). Following drama A Splinter of Ice (6-10 July), onsite in the grounds of Castle Howard city before moving to London where, will re-introduce the explosive and
sell-out performances in the UK and where Olivier Award winning Ford itself as part of a month-long artist’s Explore the medieval St Cuthbert’s in 1693, he was appointed master creative works he made between 1982
Australia York’s very own drag superstar Davies will play the writer Graham residency where she will study its Window through a new exhibition sculptor and carver in wood by King and 1994. The remarkable 70 works
Velma Celli will bring Love Is Love: A Greene who travels into the heart of moth population and produce new which tells the story of the life and William III. York Minster’s year-long included in the exhibition have been
Brief History of Drag (29 May) to the
10 visityork.org visityork.org 11
crowd-sourced following a national colouring area, where colouring sheets 40,000 from 137 countries. Led by the stage, the Festival is linking up with debates, career advice and cultural Balloons. The festival will take place
public appeal. These ‘lost’ pots will be featuring outlines of famous artworks University of York, the Festival’s aim - the French Embassy in the UK, the engagement, Future Now is a platform from 27 - 30 August 2021 on the
on display together for the first time are provided, and completed pictures now as it was in 2011 - is to celebrate Jaipur Literature Festival (India) and the for idea generation. The symposium Knavesmire. New for the 2021 Fiesta
since they were made. are projected onto the wall in a digital human ingenuity and imagination, and Dhaka Literature Festival (Bangladesh) will then be available On Demand will be a dazzling giant Firework, Laser
gallery. An optional 11-minute virtual the incredible power of education and to present a range of inspiring until 31 May, with a film programme and Drone Show finale which visitors
VAN GOGH: THE IMMERSIVE reality experience completes the visit ideas to change lives for the better. international events. and additional content. The platform can enjoy as part of the entry wristband
EXPERIENCE – taking visitors on a tour of Arles, the This year’s programme, delivered under is responsive and will work on tablets, on the Sunday evening. This will be
EXTENDED UNTIL 6 JUNE 2021 village where Van Gogh spent much of the banner of Infinite Horizons, will AESTHETICA FUTURE NOW phones, computers and Smart TVs. created to celebrate the wonderful
his later life, and which inspired a host feature online talks and discussions by SYMPOSIUM Participants in the 2021 edition include work of our Key Workers during the
Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience of his artworks, including the stunning world-class speakers, as well as films, 28 APRIL - 31 MAY 2021 representatives from The Museum of Covid-19 pandemic. The popular and
opened for the first time in the UK Starry Night on the Rhone. in-person family activities and walking Modern Art, New York; High Museum, stunningly beautiful hot air balloon
in July 2019 in York St Mary’s, a trails. Past headline speakers have The Aesthetica Future Now Symposium Atlanta; Fondazione Prada, Milan; The night glows will also return on both
former church turned arts centre YORK FESTIVAL OF IDEAS included writers Michael Morpurgo and is a key UK arts event, and plays a Armory Show, New York; Serpentine Friday and Saturday evenings (weather
in the Coppergate Centre, next to 8 – 20 JUNE 2021 Jung Chang, human rights campaigner pivotal role in discussing the future Galleries, London; The British Council; permitting). Included in the entry fee
JORVIK Viking Centre. Visitors enjoy Shami Chakrabarti, physicist Jim of the art sector, as well as the most MASS MoCA, Los Angeles; ICA Boston; there will be entertainment on the main
a 35-minute show, projected onto York Festival of Ideas returns with a Al-Khalili, journalist Emily Maitlis, pressing topics of our times, from and Magnum Photos. The symposium stage all weekend hosted by York Mix
the pillared walls and floor of the packed programme of events from Nobel prize-winning economist and digitisation and urbanisation to will also coincide with the launch of Radio’s Breakfast Show presenters Ben
building’s nave, featuring over 200 8-20 June 2021 as it celebrates an philosopher Amartya Sen, and poet sustainability and representation. This Aesthetica’s 100th issue – marking 20 Fry and Laura Castle along with Ryan
of Van Gogh’s most famous works, important milestone – a decade of Seamus Heaney. four-day virtual event brings together years of independent publishing. Swain from the Saturday Party Mix.
animated and set to music. From educating, entertaining and inspiring. key institutions, galleries, publications Performing live is CBeebies’ Andy &
swaying wheat fields to falling cherry From just 26 events in 2011, it now A decade from its inception, York and artists for discussion surrounding YORKSHIRE BALLOON FIESTA the Oddsocks, along with live music
petals, a gallery of portraits and still offers a programme of over 200 mostly- Festival of Ideas is now both local and the most pressing issues from today’s 27 – 30 AUGUST 2021 from the main stage with headliners
life paintings and even a remarkable free events each year, covering topics global: this year’s programme includes creative industries, including The Phats and Small, Abba Arrival, The
rain storm, visitors are immersed in the as diverse as climate change, artificial a special 10th anniversary ‘Trailblazing Future of the Art Market, Decolonising The North’s largest Balloon Fiesta Dolly Parton Experience, Definitely
artworks, reflecting different periods intelligence, archaeology, health and York’ walking trail that introduces the Art World, Curating During a Time will welcome over 35,000 people and Oasis and Sam Sax. There will also
in Van Gogh’s life. Visitors’ own artistic space. A move into the digital world the city’s residents and visitors to 10 of Change, and How Can Photography will transforms the skies above York be York’s largest funfair with some of
skills are challenged in a ‘mindfulness’ in 2020 saw a global audience of over amazing York pioneers. On the world Save Us? Through imaginative with over 50 giant colourful Hot Air Europe’s largest rides including the
12 visityork.org visityork.org 13
world’s longest continuous inflatable shortlisted artists working across a well as non-competitive showcase getting involved to sponsor and select to give regular visitors a chance to August, with orchestral accompaniment
assault course and Wild mouse variety of media, from painting and screenings, presented by the UK’s the stunning sculptures. enjoy new work as well as meet their from the London Gala Orchestra,
rollercoaster. sculpture to digital art, artists’ film leading film schools. Alongside favourite creatives. conducted by Stephen Bell. This will
and photography. These cutting-edge innovative film programmes, Aesthetica YORK OPEN STUDIOS be Castle Howard’s 30th Proms event,
AESTHETICA ART PRIZE EXHIBITION practitioners explore key themes from works with global partners to curate 10 - 11 AND 17 - 18 JULY 2021 SUMMER CONCERTS AT CASTLE making it one of the longest-running
28 MAY - 30 SEPTEMBER a rapidly changing world, including guest programmes with impact. HOWARD outdoor Proms in Britain. The evening
plastic-use in relation to the climate Recent organisations include Short of Celebrating a special anniversary in 20 – 22 AUGUST 2021 will incorporate a Spitfire fly-past, and
The Aesthetica Art Prize was launched emergency and the dissolution of fact the Week, Directors Notes, Guardian 2021, York Open Studios features conclude with flag-waving, lasers and
in 2007, five years after the launch and fiction in a post-truth era. Docs, BFI Doc Society amongst others. over 140 artists and makers showing The government’s roadmap to recovery fireworks.
of Aesthetica Magazine, as a way Industry activity includes masterclasses, and selling their work within their has given hope that audiences can
to support the next generation of AESTHETICA SHORT FILM FESTIVAL spotlights, panels, networking and homes and workspaces in York. This is return to three of Yorkshire’s largest YORK CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL
talent across new visual media. The 2 - 30 NOVEMBER 2021 pitching sessions with distributors such an opportunity for art lovers and the al fresco events. Castle Howard’s live 18 NOVEMBER – 23 DECEMBER 2021
prize thousands of entries each year as Film4, BBC Films and Lionsgate. curious to enjoy fresh air, meet artists, music weekend – featuring the chilled
from across the globe, from countries The 11th edition of the BAFTA- view and buy unique arts and crafts sounds of Ibiza, flag-waving proms and York becomes a winter wonderland,
including Australia, Belgium, China, Qualifying Aesthetica Film Festival YORK ICE TRAIL from York’s very best artisans. 2021’s an orchestral performance of Queen’s with everything you need to create
France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Mexico, will run 2-30 November 2021 in York, 5 & 6 FEBRUARY 2022 York Open Studios will continue to greatest hits – is set to take place from magical Christmas moments with
Norway, Singapore, the UK and UK. The festival will be delivered as celebrate originality and variety, with 20 – 22 August 2021. friends and family. Visitors can stock
the USA, and has welcomed both a new hybrid experience, with live The UK’s biggest outdoor Ice Trail visitors welcomed by artists who will up on their Christmas shopping at St
established and emerging practitioners, events from 2-7 November and the On will be returning for two days on continue to adhere to Government Castle Howard Proms: Tenor Wynne Nicholas Fair running for 6 weeks with
works from today’s leading Demand digital platform running from 5th and 6th Feb 2022 with a range guidelines, keeping themselves and Evans – who now appears as himself many local artists and crafters, as well
practitioners including Magnum 2-30 November to complement the of magnificent ice sculptures set to visitors safe throughout. Many of the alongside Gio Compario in the famous as food and drink producers selling
photographers, Turner Prize-nominees, festival’s live experience. A dynamic transform York’s city centre. The free artists booked for the previous year car insurance TV advertisements - and gifts. The city is also illuminated by
RSA Film directors, World Press Photo Official Selection includes 300 shorts, trail will offer a fun family-friendly remain on the list, plus new artists and soprano Victoria Joyce will headline the beautiful lights all around creating
winners and Prix Pictet nominees. The features, VR and immersive works experience for residents and visitors to makers have also been selected by Yorkshire’s most prestigious al fresco festive atmosphere.
2021 edition of the prize includes 20 across 15 competitive categories, as enjoy - with businesses across the city the external panel of art professionals, Proms on the evening of Saturday 21
14 visityork.org visityork.org 15
#LoveWalking – Love Walking in York Compact and beautiful, York provides numerous interesting, sometimes hidden, sites that are easily reached and seen by walking. As part of the celebratory #LoveYork campaign launched earlier this year, a new #LoveWalking hub has been created to help inspire local residents and visitors to explore the city on foot. The hub includes a variety of themed trails, walking inspiration and tips for exploring York – showcasing the unique offer of the city. 16 visityork.org visityork.org 17
NEW LITTLE VIKINGS ‘I SPY’ TRAIL YORK CHOCOLATE TRAIL YORK CITY WALLS YORK GHOST TOURS tour of the city. Down snickleways - making the tours fun for the
and side streets recounting the whole family. Dorian Deathly takes
A brand new Little Vikings ‘I Spy’ Modern York was built on the One of York’s defining features, the York is well known as being the most gruesome and grisly past of the visitors on a different kind of tour
Walking Trail has been launched to chocolate industry, home to famous city walls make for a brilliant walk. At haunted city in Europe, so there are city. Stories of invasions, executions to experience the darker side of
inspire families to explore the city and names like Rowntree and Terry, and 3.4 kilometres long, these beautifully many ghost walks and tours to guide and heads on spikes are rife on York with a grim sense of humour.
spot iconic sights. This permanent this rich, chocolatey heritage has preserved structures are the longest visitors through thousands of years of every corner, as are tales of some
free walking trail is the perfect way for left its mark all around the city. Visit medieval town walls in England. A walk history, mystery, folklore and legends famous historical characters. Visitors THE ORIGINAL GHOST
families to explore York, with 22 weird, York Chocolate Trail showcases the around the entirety of the remaining that smoulder beneath the city’s can discover the true history of WALK OF YORK
wonderful, iconic and interesting things landmarks and businesses who have walls takes about two hours, and ancient streets. Here is just a glimpse the city on this fun and fascinating
to spot along the circular route. The a strong link to the confectionery there is a great deal to see along the of some of the tours to embark on tour for all the family to enjoy. Believed to be the world’s first ghost
I Spy trail will get little legs exploring industry, and the families which built way, including the four main bars, two when exploring York’s dark history: walk. The Original Ghost Walk of York
and little eyes spotting things they it, covering hundreds of years of lesser bars, the postern, other towers THE DEATHLY DARK TOUR offers professional, artistic production
would otherwise never have noticed, York’s history. On top of the indoors including the Roman Multangular THE BLOODY TOUR OF YORK without silly tricks or gimmicks. An
and it will be available all year round. attractions, there’s plenty to see Tower, and fascinating details like arrow One of the latest great additions evocative evening of intrigue and
From famous street names to iconic outside too, from the birth place of slits, musket loops, sculptures and Winner of the York Culture Award to the city’s ghost walks scene. The passion for the more discerning
statues and plaques – the trail offers Joseph Rowntree to a stunning Terry’s masons’ marks. The city walls provide for Performing Artist and a Visit York Deathly Dark Tour offers a blend visitor. The tour explores the history
a fun way for families to explore the shopfront. Download the map here stunning cityscape views of York, as Tourism Awards winner, Mad Alice of entertainment and education and mystery, the folklore and legends
city and spot some of York’s unique well as sight of the city’s wondrous takes visitors on a 90 minute walking in the style ‘horrible histories’ beneath York’s ancient streets.
sights. Maps are available for download and varied architecture. This includes
online and physical copies are available both the current and former railway
in York Visitor Information Centre”. stations, York Art Gallery, King’s Manor,
a glimpse of Holgate’s five sailed
windmill, and a distant Terry’s factory.
YORK WALKING TOURS ANNE LISTER IN YORK history and culture along the way.
WALKING TOUR There are five stops along the route
Visitors to York wanting to explore for food and/or drink tasting.
the city and learn more about its Anne Lister, the main character of
history, heritage, architecture, the popular BBC drama Gentleman WHITE ROSE YORK TOURS
gastronomic scene and more, have Jack (also filmed in York), has lived in
plenty of guided tours to choose York. The tour explores Anne’s life and A free two-hour tour that is like
from. Here is just a couple of tours what York was like for her 200 years stepping back through all of England’s
that might be of interest: . ago. Visitors follow Anne’s footsteps, history. For two thousand years, York
where she walked, where she has been at the centre of the nation’s
YORK CAT TRAIL shopped and where she got married, affairs, and the tour guides will bring
as outlined in her personal diary. that history to life in an entertaining
Free fun for young and old, this trail and very informative way as they
guides visitors around York, exploring YORKSHIRE APPETITE FOOD TOURS lead visitors through lush parks and
highlights including the Clifford’s narrow lanes, past grand churches and
Tower, Shambles and York Minster, The York Food Tour is a walking palaces, by ruined castles and abbeys
plus lots of cats along the way. Visitors tour that takes visitors around the and along the historic city walls.
can pick up a trail leaflet in the Cat cultural centre of the city, starting
Gallery store and embark on a self- at the impressive York Minster. The Find out more about
guided tour to see the sights and find tour winds its way through the streets #LoveWalking in york here
the cat statues all around the city and visitors get to try some delicious
Yorkshire fare and learn about our
18 visityork.org visityork.org 19As a UNESCO Creative City, we seek To us, media arts encompass all YORK’S CREATIVE
to embed creativity in every aspect contemporary creativity: it is the FUTURE: YORK CULTURE
Find out more about the of making and living in our city - in nexus of the creative economy, art
York Ghost Tours here STRATEGY 2020 – 2025
the economy, in wellbeing and in and technology - and York is home
placemaking. In 2020, York launched a to many vibrant, leading media arts York’s Creative Future has inclusion
new Culture Strategy - York’s Creative organisations, events and initiatives. and participation at its core, and the
Future - which has inclusion and commitment to ensure that culture is
participation at its core; showcasing the York Mediale is an international relevant and accessible to everybody in
city’s commitment to ensuring culture media arts charity, which delivers York – regardless of age, background
is relevant and accessible to everybody an international media arts festival or postcode. It places culture at
in York regardless of age, background every two years; the Guild of Media the heart of activities from major
or postcode. It places culture at Arts consists of around 200 creative capital developments, to residents’
the core of activities from major practitioners across the sector, and wellbeing – and will work to ensure
capital developments to residents’ represents York as the Focal Point cultural entitlement for every child.
wellbeing and will work to ensure for the UNESCO designation; the
cultural entitlement for every child. Aesthetica Short Film Festival is a The Culture Strategy has the ambition
leading annual international festival in to transform York – and by 2025 we
York is one of only 12 UNESCO York; and XR Stories provides research believe York will be known as a city
Creative Cities in the UK and we are and development for the future of where outstanding, renowned heritage
unique in being the UK’s first and only immersive and interactive storytelling. comes together with a cutting-edge
UNESCO Creative City of Media Arts. and contemporary approach to
creativity – reflecting the city’s rich
York: UNESCO
history and its status as the UK’s first
UNESCO Creative City of Media Arts.
Read more about the York
Creative City of
Culture Strategy
Media Arts
A meeting point for ideas and creativity
for two millennia, York is a city where
outstanding, renowned heritage meets
a cutting-edge and contemporary
approach to creativity. York’s rich
history combines with our status as a
UNESCO Creative City of Media Arts to
act as a powerful catalyst to attract,
encourage and help grow York’s
cultural and creative sectors.
20 visityork.org visityork.org 21INTERNATIONAL DARK SKIES habitats for wildlife, improving health a dramatic coastline south, visiting the
RESERVE DESIGNATION and wellbeing and bringing increased seaside treasures of Staithes, Runswick
economic benefit to the local tourist Bay, Sandsend, Whitby, Robin Hood’s
The Yorkshire Dales and North York industry. The ambition is to enhance Bay, Ravenscar, Scarborough and
Moors National Parks have been the areas dark skies still further by Filey along the way. On your coastal
designated International Dark Sky promoting the importance of dark ramble, the incredible landscapes
Reserves, joining an exclusive global sky-friendly lighting, therefore reducing will be accompanied by the UK’s best
family of Dark Sky Places. The Yorkshire unnecessary consumption of electricity fish and chips, Whitby’s towering
Dales and North York Moors are and minimising carbon footprints abbey ruins, and the whispered tales
home to some of the darkest skies and energy costs for households. of smuggling in days gone by.
in the country, with large areas of
unpolluted night sky where it’s possible CLEVELAND WAY NATIONAL TRAIL NORTH YORKSHIRE
to see thousands of stars, the Milky MOORS RAILWAY
Way, meteors and even the Northern The Cleveland Way National Trail is
Lights. As part of a coordinated a great way to take in the beauty of The North Yorkshire Moor Railway is
approach by the two National Parks, North Yorkshire’s wide-open spaces one of the world’s greatest heritage
the International Dark-Sky Association and soak up the culture of the splendid railway experiences with thrills and
(IDA), has granted Reserve status to towns and villages of the North York family fun at its heart. Visitors are
both areas, which combined cover over Moors and Yorkshire Coast. The invited to climb on-board a steam or
3500 km2 of northern England. This is 109-mile trail has been delighting heritage diesel train and experience 24
by far the biggest such announcement walkers for over 50 years and can miles of Yorkshire’s amazing scenery at
in the UK and represents one of be enjoyed in shorter segments or this must-see visitor attraction. Visitors
the largest areas in Europe to be
North York
as a satisfying, nine-day adventure. can begin their journey at Pickering
simultaneously designated. Both The trail’s horseshoe shape can be Station - a must-see 1930’s themed
National Parks have worked hard undertaken in either direction, but station that will transport them back in
over several years to achieve this working your way around clockwise, time to the steam era. A must-see for
award, gaining support from councils, from Helmsley to Filey, will likely the Harry Potter fans is the celebrity
Moors National
parishes, landowners, businesses and keep the wind at your back. station, Goathland, which became
renowned astronomical experts. The trail starts in the splendid market Hogsmeade Station in the first Harry
town of Helmsley, complete with Potter film. The steam train journey is
In addition to global recognition tea shops, a castle and wondrous a great way to discover the beauty of
Park
of the National Parks’ exceptional walled gardens. Heading west, you’ll the North York Moors National Park
starscapes, designation also provides reach Sutton Bank, home to some of and visitors can travel all the way to
an opportunity to promote locations, the finest views in England, before Whitby – a bustling harbour town
events and businesses which provide meandering north through stunning with Whitby Abbey overlooking it.
outstanding opportunities to look up heather moorland. You’ll meet the
into the night sky. As well as enhancing coast at Saltburn-by-the-Sea and follow
The North York Moors National Park
is one of the UK’s most extraordinary
places, established in 1952. The 554
square miles of fabulous countryside,
open heather moorland and rugged
coast are worth exploring. From rolling
panoramas and big skies to enchanting
forests and idyllic dales, there’s a sense
of peace and tranquillity here that’s
hard to beat – and all this just 20 miles
or so north of York.
22 visityork.org visityork.org 23Taste of York
Home to an abundance of cafes, bars and restaurants, York has a
diverse food scene with tastes from across the world contained in
one compact city. If fine dining is your thing then you’re spoilt for
choice, book a table at Roots restaurant, home to Michelin Chef
Tommy Banks. For food on the go check out the very best in street
food, the Shambles Food Court and Spark: York have it all covered
whether you’re vegan or a meat lover. In more relaxed surroundings,
Treat yourself
set down for afternoon tea in the iconic Bettys Café Tea Rooms.
▪ Roots York – opened in 2018, Roots York embraces ▪ Arras – First opening in Sydney, Australia, Arras
The Gin and Craft Beer scene is thriving in the city with local the farming ethos and techniques of the Banks family
and offers a sharing plate dining experience with its
restaurant moved to York in 2011. The menu, specially
prepared by a husband-wife duo Lovaine and Adam,
breweries and distilleries producing unique local flavours such as the seasonal menu. Roots York is an expression of the will quickly capture the imagination of the dining public
people behind it, including the Michelin Star Chef with its tongue in cheek take on a modern British style
award-winning York Gin and Brew York. Tommy Banks. Redefining the traditional four seasons, of food. They use only fresh ingredients in preparing
Tommy has created three growing groups inspired by the food and rely on sound technique to offer great
Oldstead’s ingredients: ‘The Hunger Gap’, ‘Time of food and a unique experience for all diners.
Abundance’ and ‘The Preserving Season’. These groups
inspire the menu at the restaurant. ▪ Melton’s Restaurant – opened over two decades ago
in 1991, Melton’s restaurant is run by Michael and Lucy
▪ Le Cochon Aveugle – located in the heart of York, Le Hjort and has been featured in the Good Food Guide
Cochon Aveugle is a critically acclaimed and award- multiple times since then. The restaurant has a strong
winning restaurant run by husband and wife Josh and commitment to the promotion of local produce, which
Victoria Overington. Serving an ever-changing, seasonal feature in many of its dishes.
menu, this intimate dining experience is rooted in the
Parisian bistronomy concept of stripping back fine-
dining to a more relaxed and informal setting, making
the experience more fun and approachable. Diners
get to eat a ‘blind’ tasting menu – a reflection of the
restaurant’s name which means the blind pig, which
inspires many people to visit the restaurant.
24 visityork.org 25Street food Independent & quirky Cafés Craft beer & drinks
▪ Shambles Market Food Court – Located in the historic ▪ Skosh – Skosh is a small plate restaurant offering ▪ Café No.8 Bistro – This small but incredibly lively bistro ▪ House of Trembling Madness – Apart from an
Shambles Market, the Food Court offers a plethora of contemporary British cooking with an international can be found on Gillygate in York. Café No.8’s rooms impressive collection of craft beers and ales, this
local and world-cuisine inspired street food. Here you influence. Here you will dine in a bespoke room with evoke the image of the brasseries of Paris and connect medieval ale house boasts a quirky display of taxidermy
will find TripAdvisor’s No.1 favourite place to eat in an open concept kitchen designed to create a unique to a secret garden adjoining to the ancient city walls. animal collection. The house itself was built in the 12th
York – Los Moros offering northern African cuisine, the experience for every visitor to enjoy uncomplicated, yet Offering a selection of dishes including vegetarian and century – the oldest Norman house in York today. Here
smoked-meat sandwich heaven Shambles Kitchen and a refined dishes in comfortable and informal manner. The vegan options, Café No.8 Bistro is a light and charming you can enjoy a drink under the candlelight surrounded
public’s favourite crepe stall KREP. diverse menu showcases a precise yet playful style of place to enjoy an afternoon meal. with furs and wooden furniture, while sharing a table
cookery. with some fellow-travellers.
▪ Spark York CIC – Opened as a community project, ▪ Brew & Brownie – This café is inspired by the seasons,
Spark York combines street food with art and craft ▪ Love Cheese – Love Cheese is a small cosy café with the owners’ countryside upbringing, their urban ▪ Evil Eye – This bar is a true home to the bizarre, weird
shops, pop-up barbers, vintage clothes store and local a secluded garden at the back, offering specialised adulthood, the food they craved as children and the and wonderful. Evil Eye specialises in tasty cocktail
gin producers. Cuisines found here include Columbian, cheese boards paired with wines, beers and teas. tastes they developed while growing up. Pop into this prepared with fresh ingredients and using gin as a
Thai, American and more. You can also pick up one or more of the 100 cheeses café on the way to York Minster for a cup of rich coffee, base for most drinks. The adjacent shop actually holds
available in the shop, or get one of the cheese making sourced from a fantastic artisan Lake District roastery a Guinness World Record for the number of gins
▪ Brew York – Brew York is a showpiece ten barrel kits to make your own batches of cheese at home. Carvetii Coffee, and a piece of brownie that will melt in commercially available at one place – you can find over
craft brewery alongside its tap room and beer hall, your mouth. 1000 gins here.
celebrating the best local ales and redefining the city’s ▪ Fancy Hank’s - Tucked away in the laid-back-streets of
position in the UK brewing scene. Enjoy some of the the historic Minster Quarter, Fancy Hank’s offers good ▪ Partisan – The lunch menu at Partisan changes almost Pairings Wine Bar – This independent wine bar in
best street food in the area alongside your beer, thanks mood food inspired by two brothers travels through the daily, producing meals with the finest quality fresh ▪ the centre of York is run by two sisters and offers
to the in-house Blues Smoked Meats bringing you 11 states of America’s Deep South. Here you can find ingredients. Partisan offers a rustic modern British fine wines by the glass, local ales, cocktails and great
incredible burgers and American style BBQ trays. the region’s classic gumbo, jambalaya and classic fried menu that takes its inspiration from the seasons and coffee alongside cheese, charcuterie, deli foods and
chicken and waffles. the richness of the produce. The café also serves as an desserts. At Pairings you can experience the informal
antique shop and art gallery, so you can enjoy food for approach to food and drink pairing that is inclusive and
both the body and soul here. comfortable for everyone.
▪ Spring Espresso – At Spring Espresso you can discover ▪ Chapter House – Located in the Principal York Hotel,
artisan roasted coffee produced by award winning Chapter House serves cocktails and local craft ales,
baristas, as well as a selection of speciality teas, wines and spirits and barsnacks. Whether you are
homemade cakes and warm sandwiches and paninis. a local looking for a relaxing break, or a traveller
All this in the surrounding of Yorkshire’s 17th century spending a couple of days in York, this cosy bar offers
reclaimed timber and furniture. a comfortable relaxing space for all to enjoy locally
sourced and crafted drinks.
▪ Dark Horse – Dark Horse combine their love of
coffee with a passion for quality, bringing to York the ▪ Valhalla – Right in the heart of historic York, Valhalla is
homemade wholesome menu, all tied together with a nod to the city’s Viking past. Here you can find beer,
an Australian twist. You can grab a cappuccino to go hot drinks, cold meat platters and mead you can drink
or enjoy your cup of coffee in the surroundings of the straight from the horn like a real Viking. Rock music that
historic Shambles Market. The owner’s home-baked plays at the pub is a suitable accompaniment to the
banana bread is not to be missed - ask for it toasted warrior atmosphere and will guide you on your way to
and buttered for a delicious treat. Viking Heaven.
26 visityork.org 27Story Ideas With the best racecourse in the country, a thriving cultural scene winning the city UNESCO City of Media Arts status and the titles of Britain’s Home of Chocolate and The Most Haunted City in Europe, York has many faces and an infinite number of stories to tell. We hope that the below story ideas will inspire you to visit our city and share your York experiences with your readers. 28 visityork.org visityork.org 29
Magic York
With a history spanning 2,000 years York if full of myths
and magic. Throughout the centuries characters from
alchemists to witches are said to have passed through
the city. Below is the round-up of magical locations and
experiences visitors can sample in York.
Starting from Shambles - city’s most famous street which Those visitors who prefer to explore on foot, can embark
dates back to the fourteenth century and is said to be on the Wizard Quest-fun and interactive walking tour for
an inspiration for the film depiction of Diagon Alley, the all ages. With potions, magical creatures and an important
magical shopping location from the wizarding world mission, quest participants will discover magic in the streets
of Harry Potter. The street is now home to different of York. Tours run from March - September on Thursday
mystical outlets including the World of Wizardy and and Friday evenings. Each tour lasts around 45 minutes,
The Boy Wizard selling everything a wizard fan could starting at King’s Square (at the end of Shambles).
possibly need and want and is proving popular with the
fans of the magical franchise from around the world. To complete a mystical trip to the city, visitors can stay
at the award-winning self-catering accommodation-
Shambles is also a host of The Shop That Must Not Be the Enchantment Chamber. This unique home away
Named - the original and premier shop specialising in from home includes a bed chamber complete with an
officially licensed Harry Potter merchandise. There’s unconventional four poster bed, realistic open fire, real
magical wares, an amazing selection of wands and friendly wood flooring and is furnished with an eclectic collection
wizarding staff, who know everything you could ever of magical artefacts from the wizarding world. The
want to know about the Boy Who Lived and his world. apartment is located within the walls of the historical
city with ease of access to other magical locations.
Another magical gem is The Potions Cauldron, an old-
fashioned apothecary shop, which offers specially-concocted
drinks including Serpents Venom Poison, Basilisk Blood
and Elixir of Love (the first person to sniff it will fall in love
with the nearest wizard). The store also features a 6,000
piece Lego Hogwarts castle and a bubbling cauldron.
Visitors can also mix their own magical potions.
The ‘Magic and Mystery’ exhibition at Barley Hall explores
the often fine line between science, religion and magic
in medieval society. Visitors can find out about those
who were outcast as witches and wizards, explore the
‘science’ of magic and alchemy and how such individuals
used protective charms and forecasting to foresee the
future through prophecies and dreams. Using both
archaeological and documentary evidence from the period,
Magic and Mystery showcases a thought-provoking and
often misinterpreted feature of medieval culture.
30 visityork.org visityork.org 31Book Lovers York
The saying goes, you can’t judge a book by its cover,
but a novel way of learning about York is through its
rich literary connections. Visitors are invited to explore
York-the birthplace of Daniel Defoe’s world-famous
character Robinson Crusoe.
While walking the over 2000 years old medieval city walls Famous English author Kate Atkinson was born in York
visitors can hear the bells of the iconic York Minster, just and many of her characters have a connection to the city.
as Grace Trewe did in ‘Times Echo’ by Pamela Hartshorne. Ruby Lennox from ‘Behind the Scenes at the Museum’
York Minster’s library is also one of the oldest in the country, was inspired from one of York’s most visited museums-
it includes the York Gospels-over a thousand years old York Castle Museum, while the fictional detective Jackson
and still used today. Stained-glass windows were also the Brodie from ‘Started Early, Took My Dog’ was rather fond of
medieval equivalent of a book, making stories from the Betty’s Tea Rooms, where visitors can still enjoy a traditional
Bible accessible for their congregations; York Minster’s English afternoon tea with a side of a delicious fat rascal.
Great East Window is the largest expanse of medieval
stained glass in the country, a masterpiece in glass and Two major literary events take place in York every
stone depicting the beginning and end of all things. year: the National Book Fair (11 - 12 September 2020)
and the York Literature Festival (19-28 March 2020)
From York Minster, visitors can take a stroll down attracting local, national and international crowds.
Stonegate, one of York’s prettiest streets, where the
first two volumes of Sterne’s landmark ‘Tristram Shandy’ For many years York has inspired and attracted many
were printed, and look out for the printer’s Red Devil authors, including Charles Dickens, Virginia Woolf and Bronte
which sits on number 33, a former printers, and serves sisters, and it continues to do so even now. Matt Haig-a
as a lasting reminder of when Stonegate was famous as bestselling author of ‘Reasons to Stay Alive’ and ‘Notes on
a centre of books and publishing in the 16th century. a Nervous Planet’ currently resides in York and many had
luck meeting him in person at Waterstones book launches.
In York visitors can follow in the footsteps of the Henry
VIII royal progress to York, and see the sights that remain
a reminder of the turbulent history at what is left of St
Mary’s Abbey in York Museum Gardens, as depicted in C J
Sansom’s historical mystery ‘Sovereign’, the third novel in
his ‘Matthew Shardlake Series’. The riverside view of the
city that opens up to the eyes of all from the Skeldergate
bridge was described in great detail by Wilkie Collins,
a friend of Charles Dickens, in his novel ‘No Name’.
In the city that is home of Kit Kat and Chocolate
Oranges visitors can immerse themselves in the
stories of ‘The Sweethearts, York’s Chocolate Girls’
by Lynn Russell and Neil Hanson by joining the
tasty guided tour at York’s Chocolate Story.
32 visityork.org visityork.org 33You can also read
