Added pics today--The incredible city of York

York is an incredible place--even before you see the Viking Centre, Museum or Dungeons.

It is the once-and-for-all antidote to modern straight -line city planning and is an exotic synthesis of many very ancient buildings with ultra-modern boutique and speciality shops and eateries  and market stalls--housed in the very old buildings--plus a variety of street performers. There are gardens and restful and pleasing green spaces in unexpected locations. It even surpasses Chichester in many ways--which is hard for me to admit!

Even after 4 visits--there is so much I had not seen before.

The pictures following show just a few of the sights and activities, starting with the Minster. Guy Fawkes was born here, educated at the local school and baptised next to the Minster. Famous astronomers, mathematicians and artists come from York. Emporer Constantine lived here and he was responsible for the council which shaped the modern Bible. The city also boasts ghosts and ghost hunters--always dressed in black and there are many old gargoyles depicting devils.

Some Roman structures date back to AD 71 and a boys' school was founded in 674. which both Guy Fawkes and the man who discovered fractals--went to (not in the same class!). There are also extensive Roman wall remains around the city.

James Cook came from Yorkshire so they have an equal claim to him with Australia--hence the Captain Cook Cruises on the River Ouse through York. Dame Judi Dench is also local. Her father was a doctor in the town

Next entry--The York Mystery Plays--which we just returned from at 1100pm and were stunning.