History

The City of York was founded by the Romans in 71 AD as Eboracum. York became the capital of the Roman province of Britannia, nestled safely between the banks of the River Ouse and Foss. In the 4th century when Roman civilization began to break down the last of the Roman soldiers left York and Britain in 407 AD, leaving its towns abandoned and in ruin. York was left as just a small civilisation, with just a few people living inside the walls farming the land. In 627 a Bishop of York was appointed and a cathedral (York Minster) was built inside the walls of the Roman town. During the Middle Ages, York grew as a major wool trading centre and became the capital of the northern ecclesiastical province of the Church of England, a role it has retained. In the 19th century, York became a major hub of the railway network and a confectionery manufacturing centre, a status it maintained well into the 20th century.

During the Second World War, like most of the country York was bombed during the Blitz although was less affected than other northern cities. Now York is one of England’s finest and most beautiful historic cities. As you explore you’ll discover that every aspect of York’s modern life is inextricably linked with its past with its ancient, encircling walls, medieval streets and buildings at the heart of the city. The Shambles is a must-visit, as one of the most recognised streets in England. There is much more than just one reason to visit York.